LNAH – Page 3

Cornwall River Kings ready for home opener; add Brett Angel

Media Release

After opening the LNAH regular season with three consecutive games on the road, the River Kings are finally set to host their home opener on Saturday night.

And a spectacular evening is planned for Cornwall fans.

The River Kings host the defending champion Jonquiere Marquis at the Ed Lumley Arena. The puck drops at 7:30 p.m.

There will be plenty of new faces in the lineup for Cornwall, including newly signed towering defenceman Brett Angel. The 6-foot-6, 248 lb. native of Kingston will add plenty of size and toughness to the Cornwall blueline. The River Kings, after a hectic off-season, will also welcome back core veterans such as Loic Lacasse, Pierre-Luc Faubert, Nicolas Corbeil, among many others.

There will also be a special presentation before the game as the River Kings honour local hero Andrew Vink. Last month at training camp, Vink came to the rescue when young fan Clayton Cadieux was choking on loonies. After several frantic seconds, Vink was able to successfully perform the Heimlich manoeuver on Clayton, who began breathing once again.

After a trip to CHEO in Ottawa, Clayton has fully recovered.

Vink and the Cadieux family will be reunited at centre ice on Saturday night to drop the ceremonial puck.

Single-game adult tickets are $14, seniors/students are $10 and children under the age of 12 are $5. Also, children attending Saturday’s game wearing a Halloween costume will receive a free ticket to Cornwall’s next home game.

The River Kings (1-0-1) visit Saint-Georges on Friday night.

LNAH Kicks Off 18th Season; Cornwall wins in shootout, Mirasty fights in Sorel

The Ligue Nord-Americaine de Hockey kicked off its 18th season last night and it started off with a bang. Jonquiere toppled Trois Rivieres 6-5 and Riviere-Du-Loup knocked off Thetford Mines with a 7-4 win but the big stories for the start of the season were shown in the other two games being played on Friday night.

The fans of Sorel-Tracy were in for a huge treat as legendary enforcer Jon Mirasty signed on for the opening game against the newest LNAH addition, the Valleyfield Braves. With just 18 seconds into the first period, Mirasty dropped the mitts with former Cornwall River King, Mario Joly.

Not one of his better fights but Mirasty gave the much larger Joly a run for his money. However, even with all the fisticuffs Sorel was no match for the upstart Braves. Karl Fournier had an impressive 3 points in the first period en route to a 6-5 victory for Valleyfield.

Of course most people were looking to the Cornwall River Kings and their first regular season game. Amidst all the drama that unfolded the River Kings brass have managed to select a tough yet play making team. Yesterday’s lineup was as follows:

Forward
Bourret – Kavanagh – Chiasson
Corbeil – Filion – Faubert
Lessard – Pittarelli – Mazerolle

Defence
Cloutier – Caron
Andress – Reid
Sigouin – Barker
Jasper – Sullivan

Goal
Lacasse – Murphy

Clearly we have seen much better improvement and play since the preseason match-ups now that Cornwall has solidified a core. The River Kings and St. Georges played tight and evenly into the shootout where Cornwall’s Alex Bourret came out on top with the game winner. Chris Clouthier dropped the gloves a few times to keep the crowd on its feet.

Looks like it’ll be a tight race between all 8 teams this year for the LNAH. Which is great for us hockey fans; nothing like the good ol’ hockey game in the dead of winter.

Cornwall River Kings make a splash with Valleyfield Braves trade

Announced today, the Cornwall River Kings shipped centre Olivier Proulx to the new expansion team of the Valleyfield Braves. In return, the Kings received an integral piece of their inaugural season in Steve McJannett. Along with McJannett came scoring machine Dominic Chiasson.

So what does this mean for Cornwall?

Clearly, the River Kings won the trade. Cornwall has everything to gain in this 2 for 1 deal. Chiasson seemed to find his groove in the LNAH after spending 9 years in the United league. A 10 year vet of the LNAH, he has suited up for 411 games and managed to notch 522 points. This will be a welcome addition of fire power to the Cornwall River Kings line up.

McJannett on the other hand, is not quite a scoring machine like Chiasson but one tough man to have on the ice. This will bring more of the grit, toughness and size that is needed for the River Kings. Coach Simoes played with McJannett last season with Cornwall, so he knows exactly what kinda of player McJannett is, on and off the ice.

Things are improving at a steady pace for Cornwall and are easily starting to put the nay sayers to shame. A few more transactions and signings to go before they’re ready to be at the state they were in at the beginning of last year’s debut, but the right people are in place to make this team thrive.

Cornwall’s next home exhibition game is October 5th when “The Battle of the 401” commences in Valleyfield coming to town. Should be a great night of hockey.

River Kings fall flat in first pre-season game against Trois Rivieres

With half of the lineup filled with young players trying to fight for a roster spot, the Cornwall River Kings skated to a slow pace and fell flat as the Trois Rivieres Viking pounced to a 6-4 win.

Can’t hold it against them however. The River Kings are trying to build a solid and gritty team and only have weeks to do it. The willingness of this group of young lads who are coming out on the ice have to be commended, as well as the Cornwall brass for keeping hockey in Cornwall for another season.

All in all, coach Steve Simoes is liking what he see’s on the ice so far. Along with last night’s blue and white game, today’s pre-season match up showcased the younger calibre on the team. While veterans, Corbeil, Lessard, Faubert, Jasper and Lacasse were suited up, it was the 15 young lads trying to put on a show.

Nicholas Corbeil opened up the scoring for Cornwall who also notched the River Kings 3rd goal as well. Chris Ayotte and Anthony Piteralli added one each which gave Cornwall 4 goals on the night. It nothing but a show from Trois Rivieres end as Etienne Archambault lit the lamp 3 times and Benjamin Casavant slid in two. Michael Belanger added one more to end the Vikings night with 6 goals.

Although the players were playing their hearts out, I have to tip my hat to both River Kings goaltenders, Loic Lacasse and Marco Cousineau. Both made some brilliant saves to keep the River Kings in close.

Can’t forget about Jonathan Jasper’s HUGE open ice hit as well. Fans went wild.

The Kings are back in action on the 27th when they invade Valleyfield to take on the Braves. The first game of “The Battle of the 401” series.

CONFIRMED: Cornwall’s Frederic Piche has been dealt to the Marquis de Jonquiere

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Cornwall, Ontario

Earlier this afternoon, word sprang across social media that the Cornwall River Kings were in the midst of a trade. The fan page from the Marquis de Jonquiere let it slip that the River Kings were dealing goaltender Frederic Piche to the Marquis de Jonquiere in exchange for Bobby Mazerolle and Ahmed Mahfouz.

After speaking with owner David Small and coach Steve Simoes, it did turn out there was truth to the rumor. When asked about the talent that Cornwall was getting back in return, Simoes had nothing but good things to say.

“We are excited on having made this trade today. Bobby Mazerolle is a good gritty player that has a championship pedigree. He is a fierce competitor, team player and has good finish in the offensive zone. I’ve had the opportunity of playing with this guy and he fits into what we’re trying to build here. He has been integral parts of two winning franchises in the last few years.

Ahmed Mahfouz doesn’t need any introduction. He is a complete player that is rough around the edges and will add a little spice to our line-up down the road. We would only hope to have him come to Cornwall and hopefully we can welcome him someday.” – Coach, Steve Simoes

On the other hand, owner David Small was sad to let Piche go as he was a fan favourite and a valuable part of the River Kings inaugural season.

“We are excited for Fred Piche and thankful for his services with us. A great team player and helped us when we needed him. This move will allow him to get closer to home and play more. We wish him the best (just not against us!) He send everyone in Cornwall a special goodbye. The hockey staff is constantly working at trying to improve this team and this is the first step.”

The future is bright for the Cornwall River Kings as they finally head into training camp tomorrow, Sunday September 15th at the Cornwall Civic Complex. Camp will take place between 1 and 4pm.

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River Kings deal goaltender Frederic Piche to Marquis de Jonquiere in exchange for Ahmed Mahfouz

According to a facebook fan page that is being run by the Marquis de Jonquiere, the Cornwall River Kings have apparently solved their goaltending issue by dealing Frederic Piche.

Translated, this status says that Frederic Piche and a 4th round pick are being sent to Jonquiere in exchange for Bobby Mazerolle, Ahmed Mahfouz and a 10th round pick.

Bobby Mazerolle is a 26 year old Latvian who had plenty of success in the QMJHL suiting up for the Moncton Wildcats and Gatineau Olympiques before making the move to the LNAH. He has spent the past 6 years in the LNAH with the last two with the Marquis. His points have dwindled in recent years but maybe a change of scenery is all he needs.

Ahmed Mahfouz needs no introduction to Cornwall fans as he won an FHL championship with the Akwesasne Warriors back in 2011. A CCHL alumni of the Nepean Raiders, Mahfouz spent last year in Dayton, Ohio with the Dayton Demons of the FHL. Notching an astonishing 111 points in 46 games player, this will be a welcoming addition to the Cornwall River Kings lineup.

Of course, this is all speculation as it is on a fan page and it would only mean dealing the LNAH rights of the players. Will update when I have a more official confirmation.

The Kings Have Conquered: River Kings to remain in Cornwall

It’s all over. All the drama of the past 6 months is finally swept under the rug. The Cornwall River Kings are staying in Cornwall.

An investors group comprised of David Small, Gokan Karakus and Cory Linthorne are your new River Kings owners. It was a hard fought battle to come up with a plan in less than 24 hours but these 3 gentleman pulled it off and wowed Michel Godin, the Commissioner of the LNAH.

“A marathon of negotiations and negotiations took place over the past 24 hours to complete this happy ending. Mr David Small, Gokan Karakus and Cory Linthorne (the new owners of River Kings) are welcome in the great family of the LNAH. Your efforts over the past few days will allow the City of Cornwall to continue this adventure in the LNAH. I hope that the entire region is behind you to show support.”

The new owners are also proud to bring back aboard a man who needs no introduction in Cornwall. Al Wagar will be back with the River Kings as the team’s General Manager. Also, captain Steve Simoes will be taking on the role of player/coach.

Adding to even more of the good news is the return of the logo from last year’s inaugural season. The River Kings came under fire when part way through this summer the decision was made to change the logo entirely. Ultimately this decision was scrapped with the new owners taking over.

More positive and exciting announcements within the River Kings front office (complete with some familiar faces) will be coming out in the next few days. The pressure isn’t over yet however. Cornwall now turns its attention over to their second LNAH training camp with only weeks to go before the start of the season.

Get our your horns Cornwall! GO KINGS GO!

The Cornwall River Kings Aren’t Dead Yet

I’ve taken a lot of time to reflect of the events that have transpired over the past week and refrained from commenting until now. In case you’re not aware, I’ll bring you up to speed.

The LNAH’s Cornwall River Kings is threatening to be put up for sale for anyone (including out of town buyers), as owner Bernie Villeneuve is no longer willing to finance the team. Reason being is the club is losing out on advertising rights from the Junior A Cornwall Colts who also share the ice inside the Ed Lumley Arena in the Cornwall Civic Complex.

Villeneuve held a press conference outside of city hall last Thursday detailing the ordeal and was actually going to sit outside of city hall until Monday night. If nothing is rectified, meaning an advertising deal or a new owner, the league will take over the team. The next day, Director of Hockey Operations, Rick Lapierre stepped down from his position. Many felt he was the one responsible for the players not willing to report to camp. Villeneuve has since vacated his spot.

Captain Steve Simoes ushered in the message for the fans:

“The players want to get back on the ice and start competing again. Many returning faces, a couple new faces, players drafted, players invited; everyone will have a fair shot to be seen, evaluated and fight for a spot on this team. The time has come to finally put all this “stuff” behind us and gel as a team. And by team, I mean everyone that is looking for hockey in Cornwall. I understand everyone’s hesitation and wanting to see the product first, but I do trust that we will have a competitive team, with a mix of skill and toughness, that is representative of the people of Cornwall. Due to the contractual agreements in place and certain situations, what will keep this team afloat are season ticket sales. With this certain revenue flow, potential owners will be able to gauge the risk of keeping this team here. Season tickets will average around $250 therefore, a commitment from the people of Cornwall is needed to get us back on track. If you know one person or a couple of people that would be interested in some season tickets, please do come forward and show your interest. It’s a guideline that is needed for future local investors. Thanks again, and the time has come to back each other up; on the ice and off the ice. So lets get this started and see you at training camp!!!”

This is not a city issue like some people are making it out to be. Mayor Kilger and the city of Cornwall have nothing to do with it. We all know Cornwall is a viable hockey market and teams can thrive. We’ve seen it with the Royals, the Aces, and the Comets. There is no doubt that the people of Cornwall can come together and be able to finance the team to intrigue investors. Hell, teams in the U.K. are funded solely on fans donations.

The River Kings aren’t dead. They’re just getting started.

Francis Lessard signs one year deal with Cornwall River Kings

For Immediate Release

Coach Bob Desjardins has announced the signing of fan favourite Francis Lessard to a one year deal with the Cornwall River Kings. Lessard, known for his tough fighting ability had 147 penalty minutes in last years inaugural season.

Lessard, a native of Montreal, Quebec was drafted in the 3rd round, 80th overall of the 1997 National Hockey League entry draft by the Carolina Hurricanes. He has played in 115 NHL games between the Atlanta Thrashers and Ottawa Senators and racked up a total of 346 penalty minutes.

“I’m very excited to be back for another year in Cornwall. The fans here are passionate and couldn’t be happier playing for them. Hopefully they’ll come out in droves this year and support us.” – Francis Lessard

When asked about the new addition of coach Bob Desjardins, Lessard had this to say, “I haven’t had the opportunity to play for Bob yet but I’m really looking forward to it. Friends of mine who have say he’s a player’s coach and knows how to get things done. He’s well respected in the league”. Along with signing the likes of Ryan Hand and Brett Angel, Lessard is happy that he won’t have all the dirty work put on him. “Signing guys like Hand and Angel are a positive for the team. A step in the right direction.”

Last season Lessard was featured in a viral video that hit the likes of TSN and RDS in which he and Sebatien Laferriere tried to go head to head. Leferriere seemed a little too intimidated and both fighters remained at a stand still.

Just one more positive piece to the puzzle for the Cornwall River Kings as they get ready for training camp. Training camp opens up September 14th and 15th at the Ed Lumley Arena.

New Look River Kings: The Times They Are A-Changin’

The news just keeps on rolling out for the Cornwall River Kings. After making the coaching change and welcoming fearless Robert Desjardins as bench boss, the Cornwall River Kings have announced another big change. The logo.

Adopting this season as one of “change” the River Kings are looking at this more modern logo as one of pride. The crown represents the King, being that of the fans. The fans are their kings and the ones they value the most. That being said, here’s another thing fans will look forward too. Here’s a preliminary look at the roster of who’s signed and who has agreed verbally.

SIGNED: Ryan Jardine, Ryan Hand, Jonathan Jasper, Ian Boots, Mike Stacy, Chris Ayotte, Miguel Delisle, Brett Angel, Nick Romano, Anthony Pittarelli, Fred Piche, Casey Swamp, Ryan Sullivan

AGREED: Nicolas Sigouin, Samuel Drouin, Patrick Lapostolle, Sebastien Payette, Yvan Busque, Karl Wittner, Josh Tordjman, Mathieu Wathier, Loic Lacasse, Pierre Luc Faubert, Nicolas Corbeil, Olivier Proux, Brennan Barker

With training camps around the corner, here is a good look of who could be lacing up the skates for your Cornwall River Kings this season.