V E T E R A N S BRONCO HOCKEY

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1 _Bios 11/22/5 1:22 PM Page 1 NATHAN ANSELL #4 Defenseman Sophomore 1VL Sarnia, Ont. Sarnia Blast (WJBHL) Avid in-line hockey player; credits the roller game with helping his stick handling and hand-eye coordination skills hobbies include boating and fishing idolized Bobby Orr growing up, but also modeled his game after Brian Leetch favorite NHL teams are the New Jersey Devils and Vancouver Canucks is bi-lingual, speaks fluent French has a number of game-day superstitions, among them always dressing right-to-left big fan of The Learning Channel (TLC) has good vision and a heavy shot FRESHMAN Scored first career goal in playoff win at Northern Michigan (3/11), stealing a pass in the Bronco zone and scoring on a breakaway against All-CCHA First Team netminder Tuomas Tarkki assisted on fellow defenseman Ryan Mahrle s game-winning goal vs. Miami (2/5) assisted on goals both nights of the Miami home series (2/4-5) took six shots against Lake Superior State (2/25). Named Most Valuable Defenseman of the WJBHL, leading the Blast to a regular season championship WJBHL All-Star selection compiled 15 goals and 26 assists for 41 points in 48 games ranked first in scoring among team defensemen and fifth overall played two seasons with the Blast named WJBHL s top rookie defenseman in French major graduate of Saint Francois Xavier Secondary School (24) parents are Brad and Teri Ansell born June 26, 1986 in Sarnia, Ont Goals NMU, 3/11/5 Assists 1 (m) Points 1 (m) Shots 6 vs. LSSU, 2/25/5 Plus/Minus +2 (m) UAF 2 BGSU FSU 3 LSSU 2 MIA UM 1 MSU UNO 2 NMU ND OSU

2 _Bios 11/22/5 1:22 PM Page 2 DANIEL BELLISSIMO #33 Goaltender Sophomore 1VL Toronto, Ont. Stouffville Spirit (OPJHL) Big, butterfly goalie with athleticism whose playing style is similar to Dan Cloutier quiet off the ice, is quite vocal between the pipes has grown seven inches in height over the past three years FRESHMAN Received the Suzanne Klop Award as WMU s Rookie of the Year finished second in the CCHA in saves (1,11), fourth nationally started 25 straight games from Oct. 29-Feb. 18 recorded 35+ saves in a game nine times CCHA Rookie of the Week (11/29) Bronco Player of the Week (11/22, 11/29) Honorable Mention selection for the CSTV/Commissioners Choice Rookie of the Month Award (November) led the Broncos to a pair of wins vs. NCAA Tournament teams Ohio State (1/29) and Bemidji State (12/17) won playoff debut with a 2-1 victory at Northern Michigan (3/11) registered 46 saves in 5-4 win over Michigan State (1/14) third-most ever by a Bronco freshman named Perani Cup No. 1 Star of the Game after stopping 45 shots against Ferris State (12/3) made 39 saves both nights at Bemidji State (12/17-18) earned first point on an assist (vs. Alabama-Huntsville, 11/28) first Bronco netminder to win at Miami in 1 seasons. Split majority of time between two clubs his final junior season, joining the Stouffville Spirit prior to the playoffs after spending most of the year with the St. Michael s Buzzers started the season with the Georgetown Raiders finished with a 3.82 goals-against average and one shutout in 31 games. named to the South Conference All-Star Team compiled an record, 2.8 GAA and.98 save percentage with Georgetown in Marketing major graduate of Holy Cross Catholic Academy (22) parents are Ross and Nancy Bellissimo born Aug. 15, 1984 in Toronto, Ont. YEAR GP GS MIN REC GA GAA SVS SV% SH : YEAR GP GS MIN REC GA GAA SVS SV% SH : YEAR GP GS MIN REC GA GAA SVS SV% SH : Saves Ferris State, 1/3/4 Shots Ferris State, 1/3/4 TEAM GP REC GA SV% UAF BGSU FSU LSSU MIA UM MSU UNO NMU ND OSU

3 _Bios 11/22/5 1:22 PM Page 3 BRIAN BICEK #11 Center Sophomore 1VL Downers Grove, Ill. Cleveland Barons (NAHL) Was born a minute apart from his twin brother, Steve has two older sisters, including one who swam at Illinois Wesleyan became a fan of the Real World reality show after making acquaintances with one of the San Diego cast members avid card player, specializing in poker and euchre fan of the Chicago Blackhawks and Detroit Red Wings speedy forward with the ability to finish around the net FRESHMAN Bronco Player of the Week (11/1) tied for fourth in team goals (8) registered three multiple-goal games scored short-handed and game-winning goals vs. Niagara (11/6), earning No. 1 Star of the Game honors deflected shot in front of the net for power play tally against Miami (2/4) placed four shots on goal at #9/1 Ohio State (1/29). Tabbed Rookie of the Year in the North American Hockey League amassed 26 goals and 45 assists for 71 points in 56 games finishing a point shy of the NAHL scoring title shared top honors for league assists recorded 4 goals and 95 points for the Chicago Chill Midget AAA squad. Business major sports an overall GPA of 3.27 graduated from Downers Grove High School (24) parents are Paul and Gale Bicek born Nov. 24, 1985 in Chicago, Ill Goals 2 (m) Assists 1 (m) Points 2 (m) Shots 4 (m) Plus/Minus +2 (m) UAF 2 BGSU 2 FSU LSSU 2 MIA UM 2 MSU 2 UNO 2 NMU 5 ND OSU

4 _Bios 11/22/5 1:22 PM Page 4 ANDREW DWYER #2 Defenseman Senior 1VL Burlington, Ont. Burlington Cougars (OPJHL) Brings a good stride and excellent reach stay-at-home defenseman as part of a program called Functional Hockey Training (FHT), took part in activities that more resembled the World s Strongest Man competition than traditional dry-land training unconventional activities included lifting heavy truck tires, pulling sleds with a harness and swinging sledge hammers worked a summer hockey camp with former Broncos Wayne Gagne and Ryan Crane pre-game ritual involves chowing down two grilled cheese sandwiches favorite pro player is Chris Pronger JUNIOR Saw action in 12 contests, making appearances in seven CCHA series broke-up a two-on-one rush at Northern Michigan (2/11) with a diving play SOPHOMORE Called to duty in nine games took three shots at Northern Michigan (2/6) FRESHMAN Scored goal in collegiate debut, which occurred 11 games into the season at Ferris State (11/15) launched six shots on goal at Ferris State (2/15). Second-leading defenseman scorer for Burlington of the Ontario Provincial Junior A Hockey League (OPJHL) collected five goals and 15 assists in 39 games named team captain at age 17 received team s Most Promising Player Award played two seasons in Burlington. Communications major sports a 3. overall GPA graduated from Aldershot High School (22) parents are Paul and Carol Dwyer born June 28, 1984 in Burlington, Ont Totals Totals Totals Goals FSU, 11/15/2 Assists OSU, 2/7/3 Points FSU, 11/15/2 Shots FSU, 2/15/3 Plus/Minus +2 vs. NIA, 11/23/2 GARY SHOOK UAF 3 BGSU 2 FSU LSSU 3 MIA 2 UM 1 MSU DNP UNO 2 NMU 3

5 _Bios 11/22/5 1:22 PM Page 5 MIKE ERICKSON #23 Left Wing Senior 1VL Eden Prairie, Minn. Des Moines Buccaneers (USHL) Chosen in the third round (72nd overall) of the 22 NHL Entry Draft by the Minnesota Wild It s a dream come true, it was unexpected, says Erickson of being drafted by his home state team has attended Wild prospect camps one of five finalists for Mr. Hockey in the state of Minnesota helped Eden Prairie to a pair of appearances in the state high school tournament played for the U.S. Select Under-17 team in international competition all-state quarterback who received interest from several Big Ten schools; led his gridiron squad to the Class 5A state title possesses a heavy shot and brings size up front JUNIOR WMU s leading rookie scorer (24 points) fourth overall shared team lead for power play goals (1); third in goals (13) tied for 19th place in NCAA power play goals (1) named assistant captain at mid-season compiled six-game points streak from Dec. 17-Jan. 15 third in CCHA power play goals (1) Bronco Player of the Week (1/25, 2/7) named Perani Cup No. 1 Star of the Game with a pair of goals against Notre Dame (11/12) third period goal with 5:17 remaining forced 3-3 tie at Northern Michigan (2/11) scored in both games of the Michigan series. MINNESOTA Spent one-and-a-half seasons at Minnesota, during which time the Golden Gophers won back-to-back NCAA titles freshman campaign was cut short by a foot injury, but still earned a varsity letter scored a goal versus North Dakota (1/5/1) in his collegiate debut. /HIGH SCHOOL Captained the Des Moines Buccaneers two years ago where he led the team in scoring finishing eighth in the USHL with 37 goals and 24 assists for 61 points in 58 games tabbed a USHL Second Team All-Star compiled a 21-game points streak compiled 86 goals, 69 assists for 155 points during his prep career at Eden Prairie High Associated Press All-State second team selection as a senior; all-state first team pick during junior campaign ranked as the state s top high school prospect by Red Line Report. Communications major graduated from Eden Prairie High School (21) parents are Steve and Betsy Erickson born * * Totals *Minnesota statistics Goals 2 vs. ND, 11/12/4 Assists 2 vs. UAF, 1/15/4 Points 2 (m) Shots 1 vs. ND, 11/12/4 Plus/Minus +2 (m) UAF BGSU 1 FSU LSSU 2 MIA UM MSU UNO

6 _Bios 11/22/5 1:22 PM Page 6 SCOTT FOSTER #31 Goaltender Senior 2VL Sarnia, Ont. Petrolia Canflow Jets (WJBHL) Stuffs hockey cards (goalies only) in his skates to bring good luck, a ritual performed since his pee wee days became a goalie at age five, when it was his turn to play in net posted a shutout and was hooked to the position idolized goaltender Trevor Kidd as a youth favorite NHL team is the Toronto Maple Leafs biggest thrill in sports was signing a letter of intent with the Broncos is excited to be working with volunteer goalie coach Allan Avery: We have a fantastic relationship with Al, he is as much a friend as a coach. technically sound butterfly goaltender positions himself well and is known for his evenkeel temperament JUNIOR Did not see game action SOPHOMORE Took over No. 1 spot in goal in mid-november started 32 contests Bronco Player of the Week (11/3) defeated #11 Cornell with a 31- save performance (11/1) limited Colgate to one goal in 4-1 win (11/28) made 38 saves in loss to Alaska Fairbanks (11/8) recorded 36 saves in 2-2 tie at #1 Miami (2/27) preserved 3-2 win at Nebraska-Omaha (1/17), making several key saves in the final minute while team was short-handed by two skaters logged 34 saves in loss at Miami (2/27) was pulled once during the year FRESHMAN Chosen CCHA Rookie of the Week (2/24) after stopping 59 of 64 shots (.922%) in the Bowling Green series (2/21-22); allowed just three evenstrength goals in two games named co-bronco Player of the Week (11/4) made 32 saves in 4-2 win at Bowling Green (2/22) recorded a pair of wins in season-opening sweep of Bowling Green (1/11-12) made 28 saves in 4-4 overtime tie against #9/1 Maine (1/27) registered 27 saves in a relief effort at #8 Michigan (1/1) shutout UAF for two periods after relieving Mike Mantua in the UAF series opener (1/24); made 31 saves the following night to complete weekend sweep of UAF made 26 saves in 3-2 overtime loss at Ohio State (2/7) started 17 games and was pulled three times. GARY SHOOK YEAR GP GS MIN REC GA GAA SVS SV% SH 24-5 : : : Totals : YEAR GP GS MIN REC GA GAA SVS SV% SH 24-5 : : : Totals : YEAR GP GS MIN REC GA GAA SVS SV% SH 24-5 : : : Totals : Appeared in 42 regular season games, compiling a.96 save percentage helped the Jets sport the league s second-stingiest defense (in terms of goals allowed) produced a 7-5 record, 2.95 GAA and.914 save percentage in 12 playoff contests Jets reached the Western Junior B Hockey League (WJBHL) semifinals named WJBHL Player of the Month for January. Majoring in accounting sports a 3.12 overall GPA graduated from Saves UAF, 11/8/3 Shots UAF, 11/8/3 TEAM GP REC GA SV% UAF BGSU FSU LSSU MIA UM MSU UNO

7 _Bios 11/22/5 1:22 PM Page 7 BRETT JOHN #14 Right Wing Junior 1VL Plymouth, Mich. Chicago Freeze (NAHL) Volunteers time as a big brother self-proclaimed best ping pong player on team considered one of the team s best card sharks as well enjoys landscaping carries a two handicap on the golf course; played in the 22 Kalamazoo Country Club Invitational studied the martial arts discipline Schito Khan and took boxing lessons deceptively strong, possesses a heavy shot defensiveminded forward SOPHOMORE Captured the Bill Saunders Plus/Minus Award received the Peter R. Ellis Academic Award with a 4. GPA appeared in 1 contests FRESHMAN Received Ed Edwards Most Improved Player Award made Bronco debut at Niagara (11/14) logged first collegiate point (an assist) vs. Notre Dame (12/6) scored a goal in the Brown & Gold Game skated in 16 games. Split time in 22-3 between the Cleveland Barons and Chicago Freeze of the North American Hockey League scored eight goals in 22 games to close the year in Chicago spent half a season with the Tulsa Crude of the United States Hockey League also helped Detroit Catholic Central capture two state championships. Majoring in accounting owns a 3.99 cumulative GPA graduate of Detroit Catholic Central High School (21) parents are Craig and Teri John, Beth Gates has a younger sister, Elisabeth, who is a junior at WMU born June 11, 1983 in Ypsilanti, Mich Totals Totals E Totals Goals Assists 1 vs. ND, 12/6/3 Points 1 vs. ND, 12/6/3 Shots 3 vs. ND, 12/6/3 Plus/Minus +1 vs. ND, 12/6/3 UAF 2 BGSU 2 FSU 1 LSSU DNP MIA 4 UM DNP MSU 1 UNO DNP NMU 2

8 _Bios 11/22/5 1:22 PM Page 8 KEVIN LABATTE #18 Right Wing Junior 2VL Ogden, Utah Elmira Sugar Kings (MWJHL) First Bronco player to originate from the state of Utah father, Neil, played in the St. Louis Blues organization enjoys golf, snowboarding and video games started playing hockey at age eight split time between Salt Lake City and Dallas as a youth attended Dallas Stars games and once tossed a T-bone steak onto the ice trend never caught on with Stars fans unlike the octopus in Detroit life ambition is to learn how to ride a bull enjoys the outdoors, camping and rock climbing strong skater with a heavy shot SOPHOMORE Co-recipient of WMU s Ed Edwards Most Improved Player Award Bronco Player of the Week (2/21) compiled six points (3-3) in six games from Feb. 18-March 4 tallied five goals over a 13- game stretch after scoring once in 13 games to open the season scored twice in 5-1 win at Ferris State (3/4); launched a career-high seven shots produced a pair of third period assists to earn Perani Cup No. 2 Star honors vs. Lake Superior State (2/26) generated a goal and assist in the Bowling Green series (2-18/19) tallied third-period goal at Ohio State (1/28) scored in season debut at Nebraska-Omaha (1/23) notched second-period goal against Michigan State (1/14) FRESHMAN Produced an assist in collegiate debut vs. Ferris State (1/1) right winger on WMU s fourth line most of the season. Played alongside WMU teammates Daryl Moore and Brent Walton at Elmira led the Sugar Kings in goals (27) in 22-3, while finishing second in scoring (49 points) placed 18th in league scoring drafted by the Kitchener Rangers, but opted to play in Elmira played two seasons of midget in Vail, Colo., notching 25 goals and 3 assists in his final campaign. Business marketing major graduated from Bluevale Collegiate Institute (23) parents are Neil and Catherine LaBatte born Sept. 25, 1984 in Ogden, Utah Totals Totals Totals Goals FSU, 3/4/5 Assists 2 vs. LSSU, 2/26/5 Points 2 (m) Shots FSU, 3/4/5 Plus/Minus +2 (m) UAF 4 BGSU FSU LSSU MIA 5 UM 4 MSU UNO NMU 6

9 _Bios 11/22/5 1:22 PM Page 9 MIKE LESPERANCE #28 Left Wing Sophomore 1VL Newmarket, Ont. Newmarket Hurricanes (OPJHL) Played junior hockey just five minutes away from his home says biggest hockey accomplishment was earning a Division I scholarship lists NHL star Rick Nash as the most talented player he has skated against started playing the guitar three years ago plans on pursuing a career in pro hockey excels at Tiger Woods video golf FRESHMAN Bronco Player of the Week (12/6) notched first collegiate point in season debut scored goals in back-to-back games of the Ferris State series (12/3-4) launched six shots against Lake Superior State (2/25). Finished third in team scoring with 1 goals and 34 points in 43 contests also led his team in OPJHL playoff scoring through three rounds ranked 173rd by NHL Central Scouting in its final report. Business major carries a 3.19 overall GPA graduate of Cardinal Carter Secondary School (23) parents are Rory and Vicki Lesperance born June 9, 1985 in Regina, Sask Goals 1 (m) Assists 1 (m) Points 1 (m) Shots 6 vs. LSSU, 2/25/5 Plus/Minus FSU, 12/3/4 UAF BGSU 2 FSU LSSU 2 MIA 3 UM MSU UNO 2 NMU 5 ND OSU 2 4

10 _Bios 11/22/5 1:22 PM Page 1 JONATHAN LUPA #6 Defenseman 6-2 Sophomore 1VL London, Ont. Stratford Cullitons (MWJHL) Enjoys outdoor sports competitions, having taken part in six-hour eco-challenges in northern Ontario was a member of a four-man team that covered a 63-kilometer course by hiking, canoeing and biking It pushes you to your limits, he says. At some point you hit a wall, but find a way to persevere teamed with four other persons to compete in a 24-hour mountain bike race listens to all types of music and attends concerts on a regular basis played four years of juniors the latest Stratford alumni to join the Broncos in what has become a pipeline for WMU in recent years career ambition is to become a fire fighter FRESHMAN Second-leading defenseman scorer on the team (11 points) scored a goal in collegiate debut, becoming the first member of the freshman class to score a goal recorded a three-point weekend (-3-3) vs. Ferris State (3/4-5) blocked seven shots in WMU s 5-4 win over Michigan State (1/14) beat UM s Al Montoya on a hard slap shot (1/8) put WMU on the board with a second period goal at Northern Michigan (2/11) was the only freshman to play in every game. Named Most Valuable Defenseman of the Mid-Western Junior Hockey League, earning selection onto the All-Star team registered four goals and 2 assists in 44 games his Culliton squad lost just five times during the 48-game season and won the Sutherland Cup Championship is the latest Stratford player to find his way to Kalamazoo, joining Reid Yantzi (22-present) Mike Jarmuth (2-4), Dave Cousineau (1999-3), Chris Brooks ( ) and Matt Barnes ( ). Criminal justice major graduated from Oakridge Secondary School (22) parents are Steve and Bonnie Lupa born July 6, 1983 in London, Ont Goals 1 (m) Assists FSU, 3/4/5 Points FSU, 3/4/5 Shots 3 (m) Plus/Minus +1 (m) UAF BGSU 2 FSU LSSU 2 MIA 4 UM MSU UNO 2 NMU ND OSU 2 4

11 _Bios 11/22/5 1:22 PM Page 11 RYAN MAHRLE #22 Defenseman Junior 2VL Troy, Mich. Leamington Flyers (WJBHL) Has become a role model after revealing publicly last season that he was a Type One diabetic attended Troy Athens High School and commuted 11 miles five to six days a week to play for the Leamington (Ont.) Flyers has cherished his opportunities to play for Team USA in junior tournaments When you wear the USA logo you re representing a whole lot of people, he says. You don t know if you will ever be able to do it again, so it s something you don t take for granted SOPHOMORE Received WMU s Neil Smith Most Valuable Defenseman Award topped Bronco defensemen in scoring (16 points); sixth overall CCHA Defenseman of the Week (2/28) Bronco Player of the Week (2/28, 1/1) active career scoring leader among team defensemen (35 points) scored clutch goal with 22 seconds left in regulation to lift WMU to a 4-3 win over Niagara (11/5) provided game winner with third-period tally vs. Miami (2/5) had four blocks in a game on two occasions three point night (1-2) with nine shots at Michigan (1/7) scored goals in both games of the Michigan series (1/7-8) FRESHMAN Co-recipient of the Suzanne Klop Rookie of the Year Award led Bronco defensemen in scoring (19 points) second among CCHA rookie blueliners in scoring produced six points (2-4) over four-game stretch (1/25-11/7) scored both nights of the Cornell series (1/31-11/1) assisted twice in win at Nebraska-Omaha (1/16) scored game-winning goal vs. Mercyhurst (11/21) took seven shots against Bowling Green (11/25) lone defenseman on WMU s top power play unit. Played for the U.S. Under-18 Team at international tournaments in Sweden (Four Nations Cup) and the Czech Republic shared team lead in assists (37) and was the Flyers top-scoring defenseman skated for the West squad at the league s all-star game selected Most Valuable Rookie Defenseman and named to the Rookie All-Star Team during rookie campaign in Leamington averaged nearly a point per game in 21-2, compiling eight goals and 35 assists for 43 points in 48 contests previously played for the Honey Baked program out of Oak Park, Mich. drafted by the Ottawa 67 s of the Ontario Hockey League, but instead opted for a college hockey career. Finance major carries a 3.72 overall GPA graduated from Troy Athens High School (23) parents are Jeff and Elaine Mahrle born Feb. 8, 1985 in Royal Oak, Mich Totals Totals Totals Goals 1 (m) Assists 2 (m) Points UM, 1/7/5 Shots UM, 1/7/5 Plus/Minus +4 vs. FSU, 12/3/4 UAF BGSU FSU LSSU MIA UM MSU UNO NMU 7 1 1

12 _Bios 11/22/5 1:22 PM Page 12 ERIC MARVIN #3 Goaltender Senior 2VL Naperville, Ill. Chicago Freeze (NAHL) Serves as a mentor for Big Brothers-Big Sisters of Greater Kalamazoo recognized by his peers as the Broncos most improved player in 22-3 It came as a shock, especially since I didn t play, but I certainly appreciated the honor, he says lists the business school at WMU as one of the reasons he chose to become a Bronco avid Chicago Cubs fan JUNIOR Registered 23 saves in second start of the season at Bowling Green (2/19) started second night against the Mavericks, making 26 saves in an overtime loss to earn Perani Cup No. 3 Star of the Game honors stopped 12 shots in 34 minutes of action coming off the bench at Ohio State (1/29) saw time in both games at Nebraska-Omaha (1/22-23) SOPHOMORE Recorded just the second shutout in WMU postseason history with a 3-save effort at Notre Dame (3/13) was named Perani Cup No. 1 Star started game three of CCHA series at Notre Dame (3/14) registered first career start at Ferris State (1/3), making 26 saves in a 4-1 loss made collegiate debut against Notre Dame (12/5) in relief of Scott Foster stopped 19 shots over two periods to earn the win over the 14th-ranked Irish stopped 1 of 11 stops in third period at #4 Michigan (1/24) took over No. 2 spot on depth chart in late November FRESHMAN Received the WMU Ed Edwards Most Improved Player Award third-string goaltender who did not see any action. Three-year member of the Chicago Freeze became a starter in his last season with the club was named NAHL Goaltender of the Week on several occasions played two years with former Bronco Paul Glynn and a year with Brian Pasko on the Freeze club only goaltender in team history to receive a fighting major. Majoring in marketing carries a 3.16 overall GPA graduate of Naperville Central High School (21) parents are Timothy and Doreen Marvin has one brother, Jeff born Feb. 12, 1983 in Naperville, Ill. YEAR GP GS MIN REC GA GAA SVS SV% SH : : Totals : YEAR GP GS MIN REC GA GAA SVS SV% SH : : Totals : YEAR GP GS MIN REC GA GAA SVS SV% SH 24-5 : : Totals : Saves FSU, 1/3/4 Shots FSU, 1/3/4 TEAM GP REC GA SV% UAF DNP BGSU FSU LSSU DNP MIA DNP UM MSU DNP UNO NMU DNP

13 _Bios 11/22/5 1:22 PM Page 13 DARYL MOORE #9 Left Wing Senior 2VL Brantford, Ont. Elmira Sugar Kings (MWJHL) Best talent outside of hockey is playing the guitar played in a garage band in high school takes part in competitive roller hockey during the summers, skating on the same line as WMU teammates Brent Walton and Paul Szczechura played against Bronco great Paul Polillo in recreational leagues around Brantford interested in UFO s, but doesn t necessarily believe in them godfather, Mike Brophy, writes for The Hockey News has too many pregame rituals too list ranks as the best bean bag tosser on the squad an activity that resembles horse shoes would like to pursue a professional hockey career after graduation JUNIOR Experienced career-best season with 16 points 11 points coming on the power play compiled six points (1-5) over four-game stretch (2/4-12) Bronco Player of the Week (2/14) produced a pair of third-period assists to force 3-3 tie at Northern Michigan (2/11); was named Perani Cup No. 3 Star compiled three points (1-2) in Miami series (2/4-5) registered first collegiate goal (vs. Alaska Fairbanks, 1/16) provided two assists in 5-1 win at Ferris State (3/4) produced a career-high four shots against Ferris State (3/5) SOPHOMORE Placed four shots on goal at Niagara (11/15) scored twice in exhibition win over Western Ontario (12/18) suffered shoulder injury against Colgate appeared in 14 games FRESHMAN Was called to duty in nine games did not register a point. Started the year with his hometown Brantford Golden Eagles of the Mid-Western Junior B Hockey League named to MWJHL All-Star Team played in 28 games before being traded to Elmira. On the season, he compiled 25 goals and 27 assists for 52 points in 39 games helped Elmira compile a league-best record and the Cherrey Cup Championship helped Sugar Kings advance to the Sutherland Cup the provincial championship for Ontario Junior B teams. Majoring in exercise science carries a 3.38 overall GPA grad Totals Totals Totals Goals 1 (m) Assists 2 (m) Points 2 (m) Shots 4 vs. FSU, 3/5/5 Plus/Minus +1 (m) GARY SHOOK UAF BGSU 4 FSU LSSU 2 MIA UM 4 MSU 2 UNO 3 NMU 6 3 3

14 _Bios 11/22/5 1:22 PM Page 14 JASON MOUL #8 Center Junior 2VL Livonia, Mich. Sioux Falls Stampede (USHL) A native Michigander, is relatively close to home after traveling great distances to play hockey had a one-year stint in Billings, Mont., and spent two years playing in Sioux Falls, S.D. hobbies include weight lifting, roller hockey, golf and water sports is a big fan of the Detroit Red Wings, Tigers and Lions has an interest in science and is a fan of the Discovery Channel first heard of WMU through his uncle, who was a WMU alumnus It was always a goal of mine to play in the CCHA and Western was up there, he says SOPHOMORE Scored first collegiate goal (vs. Alabama-Huntsville, 11/27) helped open scoring at Bowling Green (2/18), assisting on Kevin Labatte s goal took just eight penalties in 36 contests FRESHMAN First collegiate point occurred at Ferris State (1/11) sidelined by broken hand, spent time playing in a cast. Spent two seasons with the Sioux Falls Stampede of the United States Hockey League compiled 55 points in 6 games in 22-3, placing third in team goal-scoring and points as a rookie, set a franchise record with assists in 14 consecutive games tied a team mark with points in 2 straight contests finished with 15 goals, 36 assists and 51 points in 61 games during the 21-2 campaign received the Wells Fargo Bank Community Service Award played a season with the Billings Bulls of the America West Hockey League prior to joining the Stampede. Business major owns a 3.55 cumulative GPA graduate of Thurston High School (21) parents are Mike and Denise Moul born March 7, 1983 in Detroit, Mich Totals Totals Totals 4-2 Goals 1 vs. UAH, 11/27/4 Assists 1 (m) Points 1 (m) Shots 4 vs. ND, 11/13/4 Plus/Minus +1 (m) UAF 4 BGSU 2 1 FSU LSSU 4 MIA 4 UM 4 MSU 3 UNO NMU 5

15 _Bios 11/22/5 1:23 PM Page 15 JEFF PIERCE #19 Right Wing Sophomore 1VL Troy, Mich. Petrolia Canflow Jets (WJBHL) Michigan native who became familiar with the Broncos through televised games on FSN adept at reciting movie lines and doing impressions does Chris Farley and Jim Carrey the best World War II history buff, due in part to having both of his grandfathers who fought overseas almost exclusively watches the History Channel favorite musician is the late Frank Sinatra was a teammate of Scott Foster s for two seasons at Petrolia describes himself as quiet, although some guys might beg to differ, he says FRESHMAN Co-recipient of WMU s Ed Edwards Most Improved Player Award led Bronco freshmen in scoring (13); shared goal-scoring honors scored six of eight goals on the power play provided pair of third period goals, including game-winner, against Alabama- Huntsville (11/28); named game s No. 1 Star lit the lamp in win against Michigan State (1/14) first collegiate goal was a gamewinner (vs. Ohio State, 1/29) scored Broncos lone goal in season finale (at NMU, 3/13) went top-shelf on the power play at Bowling Green (2/19) provided two assists in playoff loss at Northern Michigan (3/12). Jets leading scorer during the regular season and playoffs compiled 32 goals, 21 assists and 53 points in 47 contests in 23-4 runner-up in league goals and ninth in scoring registered 15 points (7-8) in 1 playoff games played in the WJBHL All-Star Game named to league s season-ending veteran all-star squad chosen WJBHL Player of the Month in January. Majoring in history graduated from Troy Athens High School (21) parents are James and Jeanne Pierce sister, Jamie, graduated from WMU born Nov. 1, 1983 in Troy, Mich Goals 2 vs. UAH, 11/28/4 Assists NMU, 3/12/5 Points 2 (m) Shots 5 vs. UAH, 11/28/4 Plus/Minus +2 vs. FSU, 12/3/4 UAF 2 BGSU FSU LSSU MIA UM 1 MSU UNO 2 NMU ND OSU

16 _Bios 11/22/5 1:23 PM Page 16 PAUL SZCZECHURA #12 Center Junior 2VL Brantford, Ont. Brantford Golden Eagles (MWJHL) Hails from Brantford, Ont. a town that has produced numerous Broncos through the years played drop-in hockey with WMU great Paul Polillo besides hockey, takes part in rugby and golf has participated in roller hockey tournaments with WMU teammates Daryl Moore and Brent Walton entire playing career has been spent within the city limits of Brantford was coached by Walter Gretzky for three seasons he was a great influence on me, he taught us to have fun Wayne Gretzky often dropped in to practice with Paul s team possesses excellent on-ice vision and soft hands around the net SOPHOMORE WMU s representative for CCHA Scholar Athlete recipient of the WMU Catherine Lawson Sportsmanship Award second in team assists (23), third in scoring (29) listed 158th among North American skaters in the NHL Central Scouting Service Mid-Term Rankings Bronco Player of the Week (11/8, 1/17) had assists in 16 games posted career-high three helpers vs. Ferris State (12/3) three-point effort (1-2) at #4 Michigan (1/7) scored goals in opening minutes (1:32 and 1:31) of both Michigan State games peppered a careerhigh six shots on goal in postseason loss at Northern Michigan (3/12) FRESHMAN CCHA All-Rookie Team Honorable Mention CCHA Rookie of the Week (1/19) Detroit Free Press College Hockey Player of the Week co-recipient of Suzanne Klop Rookie of the Year Award Bronco Player of the Week (1/19) Broncos leading rookie scorer (2 points) scored game-winning goal with 5:48 left in regulation at Nebraska- Omaha (1/17); also tallied a third period goal in the series opener (1/16) scored twice at Northern Michigan (2/6) notched first collegiate goal vs. Michigan State (1/25) contributed with a goal and assist in 6-4 win over Notre Dame (12/6) logged two assists and five shots in win over Alaska Fairbanks (1/9) placed five shots on goal in CCHA playoff opener at Notre Dame (3/12) had a three-game goal-scoring streak. Named Junior B Player of the Year in the Ontario Hockey Association captured the Mid-Western Junior Hockey League scoring title by a 17- point margin chosen Most Valuable Player of the MWJHL named Player of the Month for October and November notched 43 goals in 46 games, stockpiling 118 points two-time team scoring champion produced 25 goals, 28 assists and 53 points in 47 games during the 21-2 season. Marketing major sports a 3.68 overall GPA graduate of North Park Collegiate (23) parents are Robert and Susan Szczechura born Totals Totals Totals Goals NMU, 2/6/4 Assists 3 vs. FSU, 12/3/4 Points 3 (m) Shots NMU, 3/12/5 Plus/Minus +2 (m) UAF BGSU FSU LSSU 4 MIA UM MSU UNO NMU

17 _Bios 11/22/5 1:23 PM Page 17 BRENT WALTON #1 Right Wing Senior 3VL Elmira, Ont. Elmira Sugar Kings (MWJHL) Claims to be the best card player on the team speciality is poker and shnarples has spent his summers working grounds at a golf course trained by jogging around the 18-hole facility always played on teams that were close to home longest commute was a half-hour; junior rink in Elmira was two minutes away has played competitive roller hockey with teammate Daryl Moore big fan of country music JUNIOR All-CCHA Second Team received the Rob Hodge Award as WMU s Most Valuable Player captured Vic Vanderberg Top Scorer Award; posted team-best 16.8 shooting percentage CCHA overall leading scorer for 15 weeks; also paced the conference for 13 straight weeks (Nov. 6-Feb. 17) rated among NCAA Top 2 leaders in scoring (6th), goals (17th-t), assists (19th-t), power play goals (19th-t) ranked in six CCHA statistical categories: scoring (3rd), goals (6th), assists (8th), power play goals (5th-t), shots (9th-t) became the first Bronco to capture the CCHA assist title since Paul Polillo in reached 2-goal and 5-point season milestones finished eighth in fan balloting for the Hobey Baker Award, garnering 29,815 votes recorded 1th career point on Feb. 4 shared honors as WMU s leading active scorer ( ) 18 multiple point games scored nine goals in eight games to open the season strung together nine-game points streak named No. 1 Star of the Game on four occasions scored game-winner in postseason triumph at Northern Michigan (3/11) recorded first hat trick (at Bemidji State, 12/17), tying the game with 2:3 left in regulation and scoring the game-winner 12 seconds into overtime scored a spectacular goal against Lake Superior State (2/25), dragging the puck between his legs, then snapping a wrister past goalie Jeff Jakaitis had a goal, assist and three blocked shots against #4 Michigan (1/7) turned in three points (1-2) in win over Michigan State (1/14) matched career highs for points (3) and assists (3) in win over Miami (2/5) registered a pair of third-period assists to force 3-3 tie at Northern Michigan (2/11) SOPHOMORE Third in team goals (14) and scoring (36 points) Bronco Player of the Week (1/13, 1/5) eight multiple-point games scored twice in victory over #11 Cornell (1/31) scored game-winner vs. Ohio State (2/2) as part of a three-point (1-2) effort compiled four points (1-3-4) during CCHA playoff series at Notre Dame (3/12-14) three point (2-1) night vs. Mercyhurst (11/22); also placed eight shots on goal three points (1-2) in season-opening win against Ferris State (1/1) posted six points (1-5) in series sweep of Notre Dame (12/5-6) scored both nights of the Lake Superior State series (1/2-3) placed eight shots on goal vs. Cornell (11/1) and Mercyhurst (11/22) provided game-winner in 3-2 victory over Ferris State (1/31) third-period goal and assist in 6-2 win at Northern Michigan (2/7) scored lone goal against #4 Michigan (1/23) at Lawson Arena had four points (2-2) during Canadian Exhibition Tour; scored game-winner vs. Western Ontario with 1:33 left in regulation had a fivegame points streak (11/29-1/3) FRESHMAN Tied for fourth in NCAA short-handed goals (3) finished fourth in team scoring (28 points) two-time Bronco Player of the Week (11/11, 12/9) scored twice in 7-3 win over Niagara (11/23) assisted twice, including one game-winner, in 4-3 win over #8 Michigan (1/11) registered a goal and assist versus Findlay (1/4) compiled shorthanded goal and an assist against Ferris State (11/16) had a short-handed tally versus #7 Cornell (12/7) registered a goal versus Ferris State (2/16) to earn No. 3 Star honors scored two power play goals in a 5-2 loss at Northern Michigan (11/9) scored first collegiate goal short-handed on a slap shot at Bowling Green (1/11) assisted twice versus Notre Dame (1/19) and Colorado College (12/2) generated two points (1-1) against Nebraska-Omaha (11/1) took a team-high six shots against Maine (1/26). Led the MWJHL in scoring, compiling a team record 57 goals and 56 assists for 113 points in 48 games Totals Totals Totals Goals BSU, 12/17/4 Assists 3 (m) Points 3 (m) Shots 8 (m) Plus/Minus NMU, 2/7/4 GARY SHOOK UAF BGSU FSU LSSU MIA UM MSU UNO NMU

18 _Bios 11/22/5 1:23 PM Page 18 REID YANTZI #3 Defenseman Senior 3VL Tavistock, Ont. Stratford Cullitons (MWJHL) Second-generation college hockey player father, Ross, played hockey at New Hampshire played forward as a youth, but was moved to defense because of his size has worked landscaping and construction jobs the past few summers plays competitive fast pitch during the off-season and enjoys snowboarding favorite meal is his grandmother s Christmas dinner JUNIOR Scored first goal in regular season finale against Ferris State (3/5) helped limit nation s top scoring team (UAH) to two goals blocked five shots in 5-4 win over Michigan State (1/14) and three shots against Niagara (11/6) SOPHOMORE Co-leader among Bronco defensemen in plus/minus (+3) scored first collegiate goal at Niagara (11/15) two assists vs. Nebraska-Omaha (1/18) went down with a foot injury at Northern Michigan (2/6) FRESHMAN Recorded first collegiate point (an assist) against Notre Dame (1/19) played on left wing versus Lake Superior State (11/29). An assistant captain with the Cullitons, completed his third season in Stratford by recording eight goals and 25 assists in 41 games finished fourth in team playoff scoring with five goals and seven assists in 19 contests led team to the Cherrey Cup Finals. Accounting major owns a 3.19 overall GPA graduate of Waterloo Oxford District Secondary School (22) parents are Ross and Rose Yantzi born June 13, 1984 in Stratford, Ont Totals Totals Totals Goals 1 (m) Assists 2 vs. UNO, 1/18/3 Points 2 vs. UNO, 1/18/3 Shots 3 (m) Plus/Minus +2 (m) UAF 6 BGSU 4 FSU LSSU 4 MIA 5 UM 6 MSU 4 UNO NMU 7 GARY SHOOK

19 _Bios 11/22/5 1:23 PM Page 19 N E W C O M E R S MATT CLACKSON #55 Right Wing 6-19 Freshman Pittsburgh, Pa. Chicago Steel (USHL) CHRIS FRANK #2 Defenseman Freshman Lynnwood, Wash. Cowichan Valley Capitals (BCHL) Selected by the Philadelphia Flyers in the seventh round (215th overall) of the 25 NHL Entry Draft learned of his draft fate when his brother reached him by cell phone at a concert is the son of former NHL player Kim Clackson younger brother, Chris, has committed to the Broncos for 26-7 played on two state class 2A high school championship teams enjoys fishing and water skiing gritty winger who plays strong in the corners and is a battler in front of the net has worn the No. 55 since his freshman year in high school. Registered 1 goals and 15 assists in 56 games with the USHL Chicago Steel set a franchise record with 27 penalty minutes last season. Business major graduated from Peters Township High School (23) parents are Kim and Donna Clackson born April 26, 1985 in Saskatoon, Sask. Accomplished alto saxophone player took part in high school jazz band has taken to surfing the waves along the British Columbia coast a physical, intense defenseman who is equally capable of providing offense has the ability to take control of a game, moving well for a defenseman of his size was among the first players in his recruiting class to sign with the Broncos. Spent three seasons at Cowichan Valley appeared in the 25 BCHL All-Star Game amassed 3 assists in 59 games; also totaled six goals and 225 penalty minutes last season named team playoff MVP and top defensive defenseman last year twice named to all-star second team received the Capitals most improved and most inspirational player awards that same season assistant captain. Business major graduated from Cowichan Secondary (24) son of Michaelle Frank born Jan. 8, 1986 in Everett, Wash.

20 _Bios 11/22/5 1:23 PM Page 2 N E W C O M E R S PATRICK GALIVAN #24 Center Freshman Oak Park, Ill. Texarkana Bandits (NAHL) DAVE KRISKY #16 Left Wing Freshman Westbank, B.C. Williams Lake Timberwolves (BCHL) Hard-working forward who is an opportunist around the net played against WMU teammate Brian Bicek for many years in the Illinois youth hockey ranks was a fan of the Chicago Blackhawks growing up played baseball for nine years before giving up the sport to concentrate on hockey best player he ever skated against was Sidney Crosby chose WMU because it was close to home and a member of the CCHA has taken up the guitar and playing cards. Led the Texarkana Bandits in scoring, amassing 3 goals and 32 assists for 62 points in 52 games earned All-NAHL Second Team honors named NAHL Player of the Week following his performance at the Minnesota Showcase. Business major graduated from Oak Park River Forest High School (24) parents are Marty and Gail Galivan born April 3, 1986 in Oak Park, Ill. Talented two-way player hobbies include golf and poker learned quickly there are many good poker players on the Bronco squad pre-game ritual involves dressing from left-to-right favorite NHL team is the Vancouver Canucks works at a golf course pro shop during the summers solid stick handler who uses his speed to create scoring chances. Finished eighth in league scoring, averaging 1.3 points per game for the Williams Lake Timberwolves amassed 75 points on 37 goals and 38 assists in 59 games last season named team s top forward tripled his point output from the previous season at Williams Lake received team s most sportsmanlike award in 23-4 helped squad reach the division finals two seasons ago. Business major graduated from Mount Boucherie Secondary (22) parents are Dave and Danette Krisky born Jan. 13, 1984 in Vancouver, B.C.

21 _Bios 11/22/5 1:23 PM Page 21 N E W C O M E R S JEFF LOVECCHIO #25 Left Wing Freshman Chesterfield, Mo. Omaha Lancers (USHL) RYAN MENSING #1 Goaltender Freshman Langley, B.C. Campbellton Tigers (MJAHL) Strong skater with a hard shot hails from the St. Louis area; skated with current St. Louis Blues forward and former Bronco great Jamal Mayers during the summer appeared in GMC truck commercials with Brendan Shanahan as a second-grader has the size and skills to be a contributor on special teams. Led the Omaha Lancers to a record and a share of the Anderson Cup as USHL regular season co-champions produced 17 goals and 27 assists over 57 games last season recorded a remarkable plus-21 plus/minus rating received team s leadership award was named assistant captain played alongside WMU teammate Kevin O Connor played three seasons with the Lancers. Undecided on major graduated from Millard North High School (24) parents are Philip and Colleen Lovecchio born Aug. 26, 1985 in Buffalo Grove, Ill. Will push for starting time chose to become a goalie at age nine because it meant he didn t have to skate all the time enjoys playing the guitar and camping committed to the Broncos during the early signing period has sported a wolf design on his mask the past few seasons which will change to a Bronco this season admires the play of goaltender Curtis Joseph fundamentallysound goalie who handles the puck well. Compiled an record, 3.22 goals-against average and a.91 save percentage last season was especially stingy during the playoffs, where he recorded an 8-4 record and.926 save percentage first team all-star led the Tigers to a league title in 23-4, earning MVP honors in the process. Business major graduated from Walnut Grove Secondary (23) parents are Frank and Cindy Mensing born Jan. 24, 1985 in Langley, B.C.

22 _Bios 11/22/5 1:24 PM Page 22 N E W C O M E R S KEVIN O CONNOR #15 Defenseman Freshman Trenton, Mich. Omaha Lancers (USHL) STEVE SILVER #17 Defenseman Freshman Brighton, Mich. Cleveland Barons (NAHL) Enters WMU as a 21-year-old rookie eats pasta before every game skated with minority owner Luc Robitaille while with the Omaha Lancers possesses maturity and skill level to be used in all situations has good ice vision and excels at breakout passes teammate of fellow recruit Jeff Lovecchio last year in Omaha chose WMU for several reasons: I was excited to see the campus and it s a good town, it seemed like the right fit, he says. Took part in the 25 USHL All-Star Game Lancers secondleading defenseman scorer helped team to a share of the Anderson Cup totaled five goals and 2 assists in 51 games assistant captain was a teammate of Brett John with the Chicago Freeze had a stint with the Sault Ste. Marie Indians. Business major graduate of Carlson High School (22) parents are Donald and Janet O Connor born June 2, 1984 in Trenton, Mich. Stay-at-home defenseman who will provide depth on the blue line father, Larry, graduated from Western Michigan and has a sister, Gail, who is a senior at WMU attended several WMU Hockey games in his youth and always rooted for the Broncos when they visited Yost Arena avid golfer with a nine-handicap has worked maintenance at a golf course the last few summers enjoys spending time at the lake one of nine freshmen joining the Broncos this season. Spent the 24-5 season with the Cleveland Barons of the North American Hockey League, totaling two goals and six points in 55 games assistant captain played two years with the Sarnia Blast, skating alongside WMU teammate Nathan Ansell. Business major graduated from Brighton High School (24) parents are Larry and Mary Lou Silver born Aug. 1, 1986 in Ann Arbor, Mich.

23 _Bios 11/22/5 1:24 PM Page 23 N E W C O M E R S SEAN WEAVER #7 Left Wing 6-2 Freshman Victoria, B.C. Merritt Centennials (BCHL) 25-6 WMU SENIOR CLASS Speedy forward who owns a heavy shot enjoys the outdoors, camping and fly fishing biggest catch ever was a 32-pound salmon lists receiving a WMU scholarship as his biggest thrill in hockey has spent the past few summers working in construction and landscaping will challenge for time on the power play and penalty-killing units. Placed in the top 3 in league scoring, amassing 38 goals, 3 assists and 68 points in 59 games for the Merritt Centennials led his squad with eight game-winning goals named team s most improved player junior career also includes stints with the Langley Hornets and the Victoria Salsa of the British Columbia Junior Hockey League. Exercise science major graduated from Stellys Secondary (22) parents are Ken and Melodie Weaver born May 11, 1984 in Vancouver, B.C.

24 _Bios 11/22/5 1:24 PM Page 24 COACHING STAFF PHOTO BY ZOLTON COHEN