Niagara IceDogs
Encyclopedia
The Niagara IceDogs are a major
junior ice hockey
team in the Ontario Hockey League
based in St. Catharines
, Ontario
, Canada
. The franchise was originally known as the Mississauga IceDogs
and founded in 1996. The team was relocated to St. Catharines and played its inaugural season in the Niagara region
during the 2007–08 OHL season
after spending 9 seasons in Mississauga. The team is owned by Bill and Denise Burke.
On July 12, 2006, Eugene Melnyk
, who owned the Toronto St. Michael's Majors
, bought the Mississauga IceDogs
. After the 2006–07 season, Melnyk sold the IceDogs, and moved the Majors to the Hershey Centre
in Mississauga. The team approached the City of St. Catharines
about moving the team into Jack Gatecliff Arena
. St. Catharines City Council
voted on a leasing arrangement on April 23, 2007, which passed. The OHL Board of Governors approved the deal on June 5, 2007.
Early Years (1998-2006)
The IceDogs inaugural season began in 1998-99, and the team struggled, winning only 4 of 68 games. In their first three seasons, the IceDogs won a total of 16 games, in 204 games played.
2007–08 season
The IceDogs entered their first season in Niagara ranked in the CHL's top ten, but soon fell out of the league's top rankings. The team played their first regular season home game against the Mississauga St. Michael's Majors
in front of a sellout crowd on September 21, 2007. The IceDogs won the game, defeating the Majors 4-1. Over the course of the season, the IceDogs developed a major rivalry with the Mississauga Majors. In December, right-winger Stefan Legein
represented Team Canada at the 2008 World Junior Ice Hockey Tournament and earned a gold medal in the process.
On January 8, 2008, the IceDogs acquired goaltender Sebastian Dahm
from the Sudbury Wolves
in exchange for goaltender Andrew Loverock, defenceman Chris van Laren, a 3rd round draft pick in 2009 and a sixth round draft pick in 2010. Dahm finished the season with the IceDogs, earning a record of 20-6-0-0, a GAA of 2.53 and a save percentage of 0.917.
After selling out (3,145) their first home game, attendance figures remained low until Christmas. After Christmas, however, attendance increased significantly. The IceDogs finished the year averaging 2,722 fans and led the league with 15 sellout crowds.
The IceDogs finished the regular season with 82 points, three shy of Brampton for the central division title. Luca Caputi
finished the season with 111 points (4th in league scoring) while Michael Swift
's 100 points put him 8th in league scoring. The team total in penalty minutes (1463) led the league.
2008–09 season
The IceDogs began the 2008–09 season considerably younger than they ended the previous season. Gone were the likes of goaltenderSebastian Dahm
Michael Swift (age), defenceman Matt Corrente
(AHL), leading scorer Luca Caputi
, Stefan Legein
and Alex Pietrangelo
. The core of the roster was made up of 16, 17, and 18 year olds and the team was plagued by inconsistent play at the start of the year.
On November 13 (21 games into the season) it was announced the St. Louis Blues were returning 4th overall selection Alex Pietrangelo
to the Niagara IceDogs for an additional year of development at the junior level. He had played a total of eight games with St. Louis prior to being reassigned. On April 10, 2009, he was assigned to the Blues' top minor-league affiliate, the Peoria Rivermen
in the American Hockey League
.
The IceDogs hosted one of two Ontario games in the ADT Canada-Russia Challenge
on November 22. The IceDogs were represented by draft-eligible forward Andrew Agozzino and defenceman Alex Pietrangelo
, while Coach Mario Cichillo was selected to serve as the team's assistant coach. The OHL squad won the game 3-2 in front of a sellout crowd. The winning goal was scored by Agozzino.
In December, forward Marco Insam represented Italy at the World Junior Championships ('B' Pool), while Pietrangelo was named to Canada's World Junior team, which won a fifth straight gold medal. The Dogs were once again active at the trade deadline, acquiring Patrick Lee and former World Junior goalie and Nashville draft pick Jeremy Smith from Plymouth for three draft picks. The Dogs had previously traded defenceman Scott Fletcher
to Plymouth for a draft pick, which was sent back to Plymouth as a part of the Smith trade. After acquiring Smith, the Dogs shipped goalie John Cullen to the Kingston for a draft pick. In two separate trades with divisional rivals Brampton, Niagara acquired Mike Hasson and two draft picks for Andrew Merrett, Josh Day, and a draft pick.
2009-10 season
The IceDogs began the season without Alex Pietrangelo, who spent the first part of the season playing in the NHL with the St. Louis Blues, and without a 2009 first round draft pick. The IceDogs selected forward Lucas Lessio with the 7th overall pick, but Lessio refused to sign with the IceDogs and was sent to the Oshawa Generals in early September for a compensatory first round pick, a second round pick, and a conditional draft pick. Despite not having Lessio in the line-up, the team broke came with a young roster including three sixteen-year-olds.
In November, fan favorite Chris DeSousa and defenceman Jay Gilbert quit the team and demanded a trade. In advance of the trade deadline, the IceDogs dealt Gilbert to the Plymouth Whalers, and in a blockbuster trade, sent DeSousa, goalie Petteri Simila, and Alex Pietrangelo (who had yet to be reassigned to the OHL) to the conference leading Barrie Colts for first-round pick Ryan Strome, defenceman Simon Gronvaldt, and a package of draft picks. Following the trade, the IceDogs had five sixteen-year-olds on the roster, making them the youngest team in the league and providing a solid core for the teams rebuilding process.
2010-11 season
In May, the IceDogs became the first team in OHL history to have two first round picks, their own (6th overall), plus an additional compensatory pick they received for being unable to sign 2009 first round pick Lucas Lessio. The IceDogs used those picks to select two defencemen, Jesse Graham and Luke Mercer. However, two days after the draft, the team announced that it had fired General Manager Dave Brown and was letting go of Head Coach Mike McCourt and his assistants. In July, the IceDogs announced that they had signed Marty Williamson to a five-year contract as both Head Coach and General Manager. Former NHL defenceman Mike Van Ryn
was later added as the team's assistant coach. Days prior to the opening game, the IceDogs acquired forward Steven Shipley (Buffalo's 4th round selection in 2010) from the Owen Sound Attack in exchange for Andrew Shaw, Matt Petgrave, and draft picks. Within a week, Niagara added three more NHL draftees: overage defenceman Tim Billingsley, a former Phoenix Coyotes draft pick, was picked up from the St. Michael's Majors for a 4th round draft pick, New York Rangers draft pick Jason Wilson was acquired from Owen Sound in exchange for Andrew Fritsch, and David Pacan, a Chicago Blackhawks pick, was signed by the IceDogs after leaving the NCAA.
These are the top-five goalies (ranked by wins) in franchise history. Figures are updated after each completed OHL regular season.
(modelled after former team part-owner Don Cherry's famous dog, "Blue") playing hockey in hockey gear. The team wears red and black CCM gloves and CCM helmets (black or white, depending upon their jersey colour). In 2008–09, the IceDogs launched a third jersey, which is currently being worn by the team during warmups. It is a red jersey, featuring the Bull Terrier logo on top of a large N.
The original arena was built in 1932 and became the oldest arena currently used in the CHL following the Windsor Spitfires move to the WFCU Centre in 2008–09. It was previously used by the St. Catharines Teepees
, St. Catharines Black Hawks
, St. Catharines Fincups and the St. Catharines Saints
and is also the home to the St. Catharines Jr. B Falcons. Renovated in 1996, it was named after local sportswriter Jack Gatecliff. The Jack Gatecliff Arena name has now been applied to the pad that the IceDogs play on, while the name of the facility itself was changed on September 19, 2007. The IceDogs typically play home games on either Thursday or Saturday nights, while the Falcons play their home games on Friday nights.
On March 1, 2009, the Niagara IceDogs hosted a home game at Niagara Falls Memorial Arena
in nearby Niagara Falls, Ontario. The arena, slated to close in 2010, was the former home to both the Niagara Falls Flyers
and the Niagara Falls Thunder
. The game was billed as the last OHL game in the arena. The announced crowd of 3,167 was the largest home crowd in franchise history.
Canadian Hockey League
The Canadian Hockey League is an umbrella organization that represents the three Canadian-based major junior ice hockey leagues for players 16 to 20 years of age. The CHL was founded in 1975 as the Canadian Major Junior Hockey League, and is composed of its three member leagues, the Western Hockey...
junior ice hockey
Junior ice hockey
Junior hockey is a catch-all term used to describe various levels of ice hockey competition for players generally between 16 and 20 years of age...
team in the Ontario Hockey League
Ontario Hockey League
The Ontario Hockey League is one of the three Major Junior ice hockey leagues which constitute the Canadian Hockey League. The league is for players aged 15-20.The OHL also operates under the Ontario Hockey Federation of Hockey Canada....
based in St. Catharines
St. Catharines, Ontario
St. Catharines is the largest city in Canada's Niagara Region and the sixth largest urban area in Ontario, Canada, with 97.11 square kilometres of land...
, Ontario
Ontario
Ontario is a province of Canada, located in east-central Canada. It is Canada's most populous province and second largest in total area. It is home to the nation's most populous city, Toronto, and the nation's capital, Ottawa....
, Canada
Canada
Canada is a North American country consisting of ten provinces and three territories. Located in the northern part of the continent, it extends from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, and northward into the Arctic Ocean...
. The franchise was originally known as the Mississauga IceDogs
Mississauga IceDogs
The Mississauga IceDogs are a former junior ice hockey team in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. They played in the Ontario Hockey League from 1998 to 2007. A sale relocated the team to St...
and founded in 1996. The team was relocated to St. Catharines and played its inaugural season in the Niagara region
Regional Municipality of Niagara, Ontario
The Regional Municipality of Niagara , also known as the Niagara Region, or, colloquially, "Regional Niagara", is a regional municipality comprising twelve municipalities of Southern Ontario, Canada....
during the 2007–08 OHL season
2007–08 OHL season
The 2007–08 OHL season was the 28th season of the Ontario Hockey League. Twenty teams played 68 games each during the schedule, that started on September 19, 2007, and concluded on March 16, 2008....
after spending 9 seasons in Mississauga. The team is owned by Bill and Denise Burke.
History
Eugene Melnyk
Eugene Melnyk is a Ukrainian Canadian businessman who now resides in Barbados. He is the current owner, governor, and chairman of the Ottawa Senators professional ice hockey club of the National Hockey League . He also owns the Mississauga St. Michael's Majors junior-age ice hockey club...
, who owned the Toronto St. Michael's Majors
Toronto St. Michael's Majors
The Toronto St. Michael's Majors, was a junior ice hockey team in the Ontario Hockey League, based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The hockey program was founded and operated by St. Michael's College School in 1906, and adopted the name "Majors" in 1934, and was commonly referred to as St. Mike's...
, bought the Mississauga IceDogs
Mississauga IceDogs
The Mississauga IceDogs are a former junior ice hockey team in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. They played in the Ontario Hockey League from 1998 to 2007. A sale relocated the team to St...
. After the 2006–07 season, Melnyk sold the IceDogs, and moved the Majors to the Hershey Centre
Hershey Centre
The Hershey Centre is a multi-purpose sports and entertainment complex located in Mississauga, Ontario, across the street from Iceland Mississauga.-History:...
in Mississauga. The team approached the City of St. Catharines
St. Catharines, Ontario
St. Catharines is the largest city in Canada's Niagara Region and the sixth largest urban area in Ontario, Canada, with 97.11 square kilometres of land...
about moving the team into Jack Gatecliff Arena
Jack Gatecliff Arena
The Gatorade Garden City Complex is the main arena facility in St. Catharines, Ontario. It houses two arena pads - the Jack Gatecliff Arena which is home to the Niagara IceDogs, and the smaller Rex Stimers Arena. The original section was constructed in 1938, and was named the Garden City Arena...
. St. Catharines City Council
St. Catharines City Council
The St. Catharines City Council is the governing body of the City of St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada.The council consists of the mayor plus twelve elected councilors, with two councilors representing each of the six municipal wards...
voted on a leasing arrangement on April 23, 2007, which passed. The OHL Board of Governors approved the deal on June 5, 2007.
Early Years (1998-2006)
The IceDogs inaugural season began in 1998-99, and the team struggled, winning only 4 of 68 games. In their first three seasons, the IceDogs won a total of 16 games, in 204 games played.
2007–08 season
The IceDogs entered their first season in Niagara ranked in the CHL's top ten, but soon fell out of the league's top rankings. The team played their first regular season home game against the Mississauga St. Michael's Majors
Mississauga St. Michael's Majors
The Mississauga St. Michael's Majors are a junior ice hockey team in the Ontario Hockey League, based in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. The team was originally known as the Toronto St. Michael's Majors, whose hockey program was founded and operated by St. Michael's College School in 1906...
in front of a sellout crowd on September 21, 2007. The IceDogs won the game, defeating the Majors 4-1. Over the course of the season, the IceDogs developed a major rivalry with the Mississauga Majors. In December, right-winger Stefan Legein
Stefan Legein
Stefan Legein is a Canadian professional ice hockey right winger who plays for the Manchester Monarchs of the American Hockey League...
represented Team Canada at the 2008 World Junior Ice Hockey Tournament and earned a gold medal in the process.
On January 8, 2008, the IceDogs acquired goaltender Sebastian Dahm
Sebastian Dahm
Sebastian Dahm is a Danish ice hockey goaltender currently playing for Rødovre Mighty Bulls in the Danish Elite League.In 2003 Dahm moved to Malmö Redhawks and played on Malmö's junior teams....
from the Sudbury Wolves
Sudbury Wolves
The Sudbury Wolves are the name of the ice hockey team from Sudbury, Ontario. Sudbury has had a hockey team known as the "Wolves" nearly every year since World War I. The Sudbury Wolves, the senior men's AAA team, have twice been chosen to be Canada's representatives at the Ice Hockey World...
in exchange for goaltender Andrew Loverock, defenceman Chris van Laren, a 3rd round draft pick in 2009 and a sixth round draft pick in 2010. Dahm finished the season with the IceDogs, earning a record of 20-6-0-0, a GAA of 2.53 and a save percentage of 0.917.
After selling out (3,145) their first home game, attendance figures remained low until Christmas. After Christmas, however, attendance increased significantly. The IceDogs finished the year averaging 2,722 fans and led the league with 15 sellout crowds.
The IceDogs finished the regular season with 82 points, three shy of Brampton for the central division title. Luca Caputi
Luca Caputi
Gianluca Caputi is a Canadian professional ice hockey player currently playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs of the National Hockey League . Luca grew up in Maple, Ontario, a suburban community northor the same team for four seasons, even after the Mississauga IceDogs moved and became the Niagara...
finished the season with 111 points (4th in league scoring) while Michael Swift
Michael Swift (ice hockey)
Michael Swift is a Canadian professional ice hockey player who is currently playing for the Worcester Sharks in the American Hockey League. On April 19, 2008, he was signed as a free agent by the New Jersey Devils...
's 100 points put him 8th in league scoring. The team total in penalty minutes (1463) led the league.
2008–09 season
The IceDogs began the 2008–09 season considerably younger than they ended the previous season. Gone were the likes of goaltenderSebastian Dahm
Sebastian Dahm
Sebastian Dahm is a Danish ice hockey goaltender currently playing for Rødovre Mighty Bulls in the Danish Elite League.In 2003 Dahm moved to Malmö Redhawks and played on Malmö's junior teams....
Michael Swift (age), defenceman Matt Corrente
Matt Corrente
Matthew Corrente is a Canadian professional ice hockey defenceman currently playing for the New Jersey Devils of the NHL. Corrente's brother David currently plays for the Mississauga St...
(AHL), leading scorer Luca Caputi
Luca Caputi
Gianluca Caputi is a Canadian professional ice hockey player currently playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs of the National Hockey League . Luca grew up in Maple, Ontario, a suburban community northor the same team for four seasons, even after the Mississauga IceDogs moved and became the Niagara...
, Stefan Legein
Stefan Legein
Stefan Legein is a Canadian professional ice hockey right winger who plays for the Manchester Monarchs of the American Hockey League...
and Alex Pietrangelo
Alex Pietrangelo
Alexander Pietrangelo is a Canadian professional ice hockey player and alternate captain currently playing for the St. Louis Blues of the National Hockey League . As a junior, he played with the Niagara IceDogs and the Barrie Colts of the Ontario Hockey League...
. The core of the roster was made up of 16, 17, and 18 year olds and the team was plagued by inconsistent play at the start of the year.
On November 13 (21 games into the season) it was announced the St. Louis Blues were returning 4th overall selection Alex Pietrangelo
Alex Pietrangelo
Alexander Pietrangelo is a Canadian professional ice hockey player and alternate captain currently playing for the St. Louis Blues of the National Hockey League . As a junior, he played with the Niagara IceDogs and the Barrie Colts of the Ontario Hockey League...
to the Niagara IceDogs for an additional year of development at the junior level. He had played a total of eight games with St. Louis prior to being reassigned. On April 10, 2009, he was assigned to the Blues' top minor-league affiliate, the Peoria Rivermen
Peoria Rivermen
The Peoria Rivermen are a professional ice hockey team in the American Hockey League. They play in Peoria, Illinois, USA at the Carver Arena.-History:...
in the American Hockey League
American Hockey League
The American Hockey League is a 30-team professional ice hockey league based in the United States and Canada that serves as the primary developmental circuit for the National Hockey League...
.
The IceDogs hosted one of two Ontario games in the ADT Canada-Russia Challenge
ADT Canada-Russia Challenge
The Subway Super Series is an annual six game exhibition ice hockey tournament held between a select team of Russian junior players and all-star teams representing the three leagues of the Canadian Hockey League. The current corporate sponsor is Subway. The event was first held in 2003 as the...
on November 22. The IceDogs were represented by draft-eligible forward Andrew Agozzino and defenceman Alex Pietrangelo
Alex Pietrangelo
Alexander Pietrangelo is a Canadian professional ice hockey player and alternate captain currently playing for the St. Louis Blues of the National Hockey League . As a junior, he played with the Niagara IceDogs and the Barrie Colts of the Ontario Hockey League...
, while Coach Mario Cichillo was selected to serve as the team's assistant coach. The OHL squad won the game 3-2 in front of a sellout crowd. The winning goal was scored by Agozzino.
In December, forward Marco Insam represented Italy at the World Junior Championships ('B' Pool), while Pietrangelo was named to Canada's World Junior team, which won a fifth straight gold medal. The Dogs were once again active at the trade deadline, acquiring Patrick Lee and former World Junior goalie and Nashville draft pick Jeremy Smith from Plymouth for three draft picks. The Dogs had previously traded defenceman Scott Fletcher
Scott Fletcher (ice hockey)
Scott Fletcher is an American professional ice hockey defenceman. He is currently playing for the Florida Everblades in the ECHL....
to Plymouth for a draft pick, which was sent back to Plymouth as a part of the Smith trade. After acquiring Smith, the Dogs shipped goalie John Cullen to the Kingston for a draft pick. In two separate trades with divisional rivals Brampton, Niagara acquired Mike Hasson and two draft picks for Andrew Merrett, Josh Day, and a draft pick.
2009-10 season
The IceDogs began the season without Alex Pietrangelo, who spent the first part of the season playing in the NHL with the St. Louis Blues, and without a 2009 first round draft pick. The IceDogs selected forward Lucas Lessio with the 7th overall pick, but Lessio refused to sign with the IceDogs and was sent to the Oshawa Generals in early September for a compensatory first round pick, a second round pick, and a conditional draft pick. Despite not having Lessio in the line-up, the team broke came with a young roster including three sixteen-year-olds.
In November, fan favorite Chris DeSousa and defenceman Jay Gilbert quit the team and demanded a trade. In advance of the trade deadline, the IceDogs dealt Gilbert to the Plymouth Whalers, and in a blockbuster trade, sent DeSousa, goalie Petteri Simila, and Alex Pietrangelo (who had yet to be reassigned to the OHL) to the conference leading Barrie Colts for first-round pick Ryan Strome, defenceman Simon Gronvaldt, and a package of draft picks. Following the trade, the IceDogs had five sixteen-year-olds on the roster, making them the youngest team in the league and providing a solid core for the teams rebuilding process.
2010-11 season
In May, the IceDogs became the first team in OHL history to have two first round picks, their own (6th overall), plus an additional compensatory pick they received for being unable to sign 2009 first round pick Lucas Lessio. The IceDogs used those picks to select two defencemen, Jesse Graham and Luke Mercer. However, two days after the draft, the team announced that it had fired General Manager Dave Brown and was letting go of Head Coach Mike McCourt and his assistants. In July, the IceDogs announced that they had signed Marty Williamson to a five-year contract as both Head Coach and General Manager. Former NHL defenceman Mike Van Ryn
Mike Van Ryn
Michael Van Ryn is a former professional ice hockey defenceman. He attended Sir Fredrick Banting Secondary School in London, Ontario. He played for the St. Louis Blues, Florida Panthers, and Toronto Maple Leafs of the National Hockey League...
was later added as the team's assistant coach. Days prior to the opening game, the IceDogs acquired forward Steven Shipley (Buffalo's 4th round selection in 2010) from the Owen Sound Attack in exchange for Andrew Shaw, Matt Petgrave, and draft picks. Within a week, Niagara added three more NHL draftees: overage defenceman Tim Billingsley, a former Phoenix Coyotes draft pick, was picked up from the St. Michael's Majors for a 4th round draft pick, New York Rangers draft pick Jason Wilson was acquired from Owen Sound in exchange for Andrew Fritsch, and David Pacan, a Chicago Blackhawks pick, was signed by the IceDogs after leaving the NCAA.
Coaches
Mario Cicchillo was promoted from assistant coach in 2006–07 for Mississauga, to become the first coach of the Niagara IceDogs after it was announced that head coach Mike Kelly resigned to accept a senior advisory position with the team. In August 2009, Cicchillo was fired and assistant coach Mike McCourt was named interim head coach. In early May 2010, the IceDogs announced that the team would not be renewing the contracts McCourt and his assistants. Former Barrie Colt coach/general manager Marty Williamson was named coach and general manager of the IceDogs in late May 2010.- 2007-2009 Mario Cicchillo
- 2009-2010 Mike McCourt
- 2010–present Marty Williamson
NHL Draft Picks
- 20082008 NHL Entry DraftThe 2008 NHL Entry Draft was the 46th NHL Entry Draft. It was hosted by the Ottawa Senators at Scotiabank Place in the city of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, on June 20–21, 2008...
- Alex PietrangeloAlex PietrangeloAlexander Pietrangelo is a Canadian professional ice hockey player and alternate captain currently playing for the St. Louis Blues of the National Hockey League . As a junior, he played with the Niagara IceDogs and the Barrie Colts of the Ontario Hockey League...
, 1st round (4th overall) St. Louis2008–09 St. Louis Blues seasonThe 2008–09 St. Louis Blues season, the 42nd season for the NHL franchise in St. Louis, Missouri, resulted in the team returning to the NHL Playoffs for the first time since 2004.-Game log:- Summary :... - 20102010 NHL Entry DraftThe 2010 NHL Entry Draft was the 48th NHL Entry Draft, held on June 25–26, 2010 at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California, home arena of the Los Angeles Kings. This was the first time Los Angeles hosted the NHL Entry Draft. An unofficial record of 11 American-trained players were selected in...
- Mark VisentinMark VisentinMark Visentin is a Canadian major junior ice hockey player currently playing for the Niagara IceDogs of the Ontario Hockey League . He was selected 27th overall by the Phoenix Coyotes in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, and was the second goaltender taken in the draft...
, 1st round (27th overall) PhoenixPhoenix CoyotesThe Phoenix Coyotes are a professional ice hockey team based in Glendale, Arizona. They are members of the Pacific Division of the Western Conference of the National Hockey League . They play their home games at Jobing.com Arena.... - 20102010 NHL Entry DraftThe 2010 NHL Entry Draft was the 48th NHL Entry Draft, held on June 25–26, 2010 at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California, home arena of the Los Angeles Kings. This was the first time Los Angeles hosted the NHL Entry Draft. An unofficial record of 11 American-trained players were selected in...
- Freddie HamiltonFreddie HamiltonFreddie Hamilton is a Canadian ice hockey player currently playing for the Niagara IceDogs of the Ontario Hockey League . He was selected by the San Jose Sharks in the 5th round of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. His brother, Dougie Hamilton is a defenseman for the Niagara IceDogs...
, 5th round (129th overall) San JoseSan Jose SharksThe San Jose Sharks are a professional ice hockey team based in San Jose, California, United States. They are members of the Pacific Division of the Western Conference of the National Hockey League... - 20102010 NHL Entry DraftThe 2010 NHL Entry Draft was the 48th NHL Entry Draft, held on June 25–26, 2010 at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California, home arena of the Los Angeles Kings. This was the first time Los Angeles hosted the NHL Entry Draft. An unofficial record of 11 American-trained players were selected in...
- Alex Friesen, 6th round (172nd overall) VancouverVancouver CanucksThe Vancouver Canucks are a professional ice hockey team based in Vancouver, :British Columbia, Canada. They are members of the Northwest Division of the Western Conference of the National Hockey League . The Canucks play their home games at Rogers Arena, formerly known as General Motors Place,... - 20112011 NHL Entry DraftThe 2011 NHL Entry Draft was the 49th NHL Entry Draft. It was held on June 24–25, 2011, at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minnesota. It was the first time the Draft was held in the state of Minnesota since the Minnesota North Stars hosted the 1989 NHL Entry Draft.The top three picks consisted...
- Ryan StromeRyan StromeRyan Strome is a Canadian ice hockey player currently playing for the Niagara IceDogs of the OHL.Ryan Strome was selected 8th overall in the 2009 OHL Priority Selection by the Barrie Colts. In 2010 he was traded to the Niagara IceDogs. He was selected fifth overall in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft by...
, 1st round (5th overall) New York IslandersNew York IslandersThe New York Islanders are a professional ice hockey team based in Uniondale, New York. They are members of the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference of the National Hockey League... - 20112011 NHL Entry DraftThe 2011 NHL Entry Draft was the 49th NHL Entry Draft. It was held on June 24–25, 2011, at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minnesota. It was the first time the Draft was held in the state of Minnesota since the Minnesota North Stars hosted the 1989 NHL Entry Draft.The top three picks consisted...
- Dougie HamiltonDougie HamiltonDougie Hamilton is a Canadian ice hockey player currently playing for the Niagara IceDogs of the OHL. He was selected ninth overall in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft by the Boston Bruins. He was raised in St. Catharines, Ontario....
, 1st round (9th overall) BostonBoston BruinsThe Boston Bruins are a professional ice hockey team based in Boston, Massachusetts, USA. They are members of the Northeast Division of the Eastern Conference of the National Hockey League . The team has been in existence since 1924, and is the league's third-oldest team and its oldest in the... - 20112011 NHL Entry DraftThe 2011 NHL Entry Draft was the 49th NHL Entry Draft. It was held on June 24–25, 2011, at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minnesota. It was the first time the Draft was held in the state of Minnesota since the Minnesota North Stars hosted the 1989 NHL Entry Draft.The top three picks consisted...
- Mitchell Theoret, 7th round (185th overall) New York IslandersNew York IslandersThe New York Islanders are a professional ice hockey team based in Uniondale, New York. They are members of the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference of the National Hockey League... - Stefan LegeinStefan LegeinStefan Legein is a Canadian professional ice hockey right winger who plays for the Manchester Monarchs of the American Hockey League...
(2nd round, CLB, 2007), Drew Shiestel (2nd round, BUF, 2007), and Luca CaputiLuca CaputiGianluca Caputi is a Canadian professional ice hockey player currently playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs of the National Hockey League . Luca grew up in Maple, Ontario, a suburban community northor the same team for four seasons, even after the Mississauga IceDogs moved and became the Niagara...
(4th round, PIT, 2007) were drafted two weeks after the IceDogs franchise moved from Mississuaga to Niagara. Matt CorrenteMatt CorrenteMatthew Corrente is a Canadian professional ice hockey defenceman currently playing for the New Jersey Devils of the NHL. Corrente's brother David currently plays for the Mississauga St...
(1st round, NJ, 2006), Aaron Snow (3rd round, DAL 2006), Jeremy SmithJeremy Smith (ice hockey)Jeremy Smith is an American professional ice hockey goaltender now playing for the Milwaukee Admirals of the AHL. He has also played for the Milwaukee Admirals of the AHL. He is a top goaltender prospect of the Nashville Predators...
(2nd round, NSH, 2007), Petteri Simila (7th round, MON 2009), Stephen Shipley (4th round, BUF 2010), Jason Wilson (5th round, NYR 2010), David Pacan (6th round, CHI 2009) and Tim Billingsley (7th round, PHX 2008) played for the Niagara IceDogs, but were drafted while playing for other teams.
Award winners
- 2007–08 – Michael SwiftMichael Swift (ice hockey)Michael Swift is a Canadian professional ice hockey player who is currently playing for the Worcester Sharks in the American Hockey League. On April 19, 2008, he was signed as a free agent by the New Jersey Devils...
, Leo Lalonde Memorial TrophyLeo Lalonde Memorial TrophyThe Leo Lalonde Memorial Trophy is awarded each year to the best overage player in the Ontario Hockey League. The Leo Lalonde Memorial Trophy was donated by the trainers of the Ontario Hockey League in memory of the late Leo Lalonde, former chief scout of OHL Central Scouting.-Winners:*2010-11...
– Overage Player of the Year - 2007–08 – Denise Burke (Team President), OHL Executive of the Year
- 2007–08 – Alex Friesen, Ivan Tennant Memorial AwardIvan Tennant Memorial AwardThe Ivan Tennant Memorial Award is awarded annually to the top academic high school player in the Ontario Hockey League. It is named in honour of the late Ivan Tennant, a former education consultant for the Kitchener Rangers who worked to develop the academic standards for the entire league during...
– Top High School Academic Player - 2008–09 – Freddie HamiltonFreddie HamiltonFreddie Hamilton is a Canadian ice hockey player currently playing for the Niagara IceDogs of the Ontario Hockey League . He was selected by the San Jose Sharks in the 5th round of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. His brother, Dougie Hamilton is a defenseman for the Niagara IceDogs...
, Ivan Tennant Memorial AwardIvan Tennant Memorial AwardThe Ivan Tennant Memorial Award is awarded annually to the top academic high school player in the Ontario Hockey League. It is named in honour of the late Ivan Tennant, a former education consultant for the Kitchener Rangers who worked to develop the academic standards for the entire league during...
– Top High School Academic Player - 2009–10 – Dougie HamiltonDougie HamiltonDougie Hamilton is a Canadian ice hockey player currently playing for the Niagara IceDogs of the OHL. He was selected ninth overall in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft by the Boston Bruins. He was raised in St. Catharines, Ontario....
, Ivan Tennant Memorial AwardIvan Tennant Memorial AwardThe Ivan Tennant Memorial Award is awarded annually to the top academic high school player in the Ontario Hockey League. It is named in honour of the late Ivan Tennant, a former education consultant for the Kitchener Rangers who worked to develop the academic standards for the entire league during...
– Top High School Academic Player - 2010–11 – Dougie HamiltonDougie HamiltonDougie Hamilton is a Canadian ice hockey player currently playing for the Niagara IceDogs of the OHL. He was selected ninth overall in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft by the Boston Bruins. He was raised in St. Catharines, Ontario....
, Bobby Smith TrophyBobby Smith TrophyThe Bobby Smith Trophy is awarded annually to the OHL Scholastic Player of the Year who best combines high standards of play and academic excellence....
– Top Scholastic Player - 2010–11 – Mark VisentinMark VisentinMark Visentin is a Canadian major junior ice hockey player currently playing for the Niagara IceDogs of the Ontario Hockey League . He was selected 27th overall by the Phoenix Coyotes in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, and was the second goaltender taken in the draft...
, OHL Goaltender of the YearOHL Goaltender of the YearThe OHL Goaltender of the Year Award is given to the best goaltender in the Ontario Hockey League, as voted on by OHL coaches and general managers.-Winners:*2010-11 Mark Visentin, Niagara Ice Dogs*2009-10 Chris Carrozzi, Mississauga St...
Award- Top Goaltender
Roster
| Goalies | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number | Player | Catches | Position | Birth year | Place of birth | Acquired | NHL Status | |
| 1 |  Canada |
Mike Gallardi | L | G | 1994 | St. Catharines, Ontario | 14th round (2010) | Eligible (2012) |
| 30 | Canada |
Christopher Festarini | L | G | 1993 | Oakville, Ontario | Trade Erie Otters Erie Otters The Erie Otters are a major junior ice hockey team in the Ontario Hockey League . Based in Erie, Pennsylvania, USA, they have played their home games at the Louis J. Tullio Arena since 1996... (2011) |
Eligible (2011) |
| 29 | Canada |
Mark Visentin Mark Visentin Mark Visentin is a Canadian major junior ice hockey player currently playing for the Niagara IceDogs of the Ontario Hockey League . He was selected 27th overall by the Phoenix Coyotes in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, and was the second goaltender taken in the draft... |
L | G | 1992 | Waterdown, Ontario | 3rd round (2008) | 1st round Phoenix Phoenix Coyotes The Phoenix Coyotes are a professional ice hockey team based in Glendale, Arizona. They are members of the Pacific Division of the Western Conference of the National Hockey League . They play their home games at Jobing.com Arena.... (2010) |
| Defencemen | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number | Player | Shoots | Position | Birth year | Place of birth | Acquired | NHL Status | |
| 2 | Canada |
Jesse Graham | L | D | 1994 | Toronto, Ontario | 1st round (2010) | Eligible 2012 |
| 4 | Canada |
Broderick Kelly | L | D | 1995 | St. Catharines, Ontario | 4th round (2011) | Eligible 2013 |
| 5 | Canada |
Jimmy Sheehan | R | D | 1993 | St. Catharines, Ontario | Trade SUD (2011) | Free Agent |
| 6 | Canada |
Luke Mercer | R | D | 1994 | Toronto, Ontario | 1st round (2010) | Eligible 2012 |
| 11 | Canada |
Shayne Rover | L | D | 1992 | Newmarket, Ontario | 2nd round (2008) | Free Agent |
| 17 |  Czech Republic |
Milan Doudera | L | D | 1993 | Horní Bezdekov, Czech Republic | 2nd round import (2010) | Free Agent |
| 25 | Canada |
Brock Beukeboom | R | D | 1992 | Uxbridge, Ontario | Trade SSM (2011) | 3rd round Tampa Bay Tampa Bay Lightning The Tampa Bay Lightning are a professional ice hockey team based in Tampa, Florida. They are members of the Southeast Division of the Eastern Conference of the National Hockey League . They have one Stanley Cup championship in their history, in 2003–04. They are often referred to as the... (2010) |
| 27 | Canada |
Dougie Hamilton Dougie Hamilton Dougie Hamilton is a Canadian ice hockey player currently playing for the Niagara IceDogs of the OHL. He was selected ninth overall in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft by the Boston Bruins. He was raised in St. Catharines, Ontario.... |
R | D | 1993 | Toronto, Ontario | 2nd round (2009) | 1st round Boston Boston Bruins The Boston Bruins are a professional ice hockey team based in Boston, Massachusetts, USA. They are members of the Northeast Division of the Eastern Conference of the National Hockey League . The team has been in existence since 1924, and is the league's third-oldest team and its oldest in the... (2011) |
| Forwards | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number | Player | Shoots | Position | Birth year | Place of birth | Acquired | NHL Status | |
| 8 | Canada |
Alex Friesen | L | C | 1991 | Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario | 2nd round (2007) | 6th round Vancouver Vancouver Canucks The Vancouver Canucks are a professional ice hockey team based in Vancouver, :British Columbia, Canada. They are members of the Northwest Division of the Western Conference of the National Hockey League . The Canucks play their home games at Rogers Arena, formerly known as General Motors Place,... (2010) |
| 9 | Canada |
Andrew Agozzino | L | LW | 1991 | Kleinburg, Ontario | 1st round (2007) | Free Agent |
| 10 | Canada |
Steven Shipley | L | C | 1992 | Ilderton, Ontario | Trade OWE Owen Sound Attack The Owen Sound Attack are a junior ice hockey in the Ontario Hockey League since the year 2000. The Attack are based in Owen Sound, Ontario, Canada.-History:... (2010) |
4th round Buffalo Buffalo Sabres The Buffalo Sabres are a professional ice hockey team based in Buffalo, New York. They are members of the Northeast Division of the Eastern Conference of the National Hockey League .-Founding and early success: 1970-71—1980-81:... (2010) |
| 12 | Canada |
Myles Doan | L | C | 1992 | LaSalle, Ontario | Trade OWE Owen Sound Attack The Owen Sound Attack are a junior ice hockey in the Ontario Hockey League since the year 2000. The Attack are based in Owen Sound, Ontario, Canada.-History:... (2010) |
Free Agent |
| 13 | Canada |
Freddie Hamilton Freddie Hamilton Freddie Hamilton is a Canadian ice hockey player currently playing for the Niagara IceDogs of the Ontario Hockey League . He was selected by the San Jose Sharks in the 5th round of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. His brother, Dougie Hamilton is a defenseman for the Niagara IceDogs... |
R | LW | 1992 | Toronto, Ontario | 1st round (2008) | 5th round San Jose San Jose Sharks The San Jose Sharks are a professional ice hockey team based in San Jose, California, United States. They are members of the Pacific Division of the Western Conference of the National Hockey League... (2010) |
| 14 | Canada |
Joel Wigle | R | RW | 1994 | Brantford, Ontario | 2nd round (2010) | Eligible 2012 |
| 16 | Canada |
Trevor Petersen | L | LW | 1994 | Thornhill, Ontario | Free Agent | Eligible (2013) |
| 18 | Canada |
Ryan Strome Ryan Strome Ryan Strome is a Canadian ice hockey player currently playing for the Niagara IceDogs of the OHL.Ryan Strome was selected 8th overall in the 2009 OHL Priority Selection by the Barrie Colts. In 2010 he was traded to the Niagara IceDogs. He was selected fifth overall in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft by... |
R | RW | 1993 | Mississauga, Ontario | Trade BAR Barrie Colts The Barrie Colts are a junior ice hockey team in Ontario Hockey League, based in Barrie, Ontario, Canada. There were two previous Barrie Colts team which played Junior A & B hockey in the Ontario Hockey Association, one from 1907 until 1910 and another from the 1920s to 1940s.-Original Colts:The... (2010) |
1st round N.Y. Islanders New York Islanders The New York Islanders are a professional ice hockey team based in Uniondale, New York. They are members of the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference of the National Hockey League... (2011) |
| 19 |  Germany |
Tom Kuhnhackl Tom Kühnhackl Tom Kühnhackl is a German ice hockey right winger who currently plays for the Niagara IceDogs of the Ontario Hockey League. He has also played professionally for the Augsburger Panther of the Deutsche Eishockey Liga, the highest German hockey league... |
L | LW | 1992 | Landshut, Germany | Trade WND Windsor Spitfires The Windsor Spitfires are a junior ice hockey team in the Ontario Hockey League. The team is based in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. The franchise was granted for the 1975–76 season and revived a previous OHA Jr. A Spitfires team which moved to become the Hamilton Tiger Cubs in 1953.-History:The... (2011) |
4th Round Pittsburgh Penguins Pittsburgh Penguins The Pittsburgh Penguins are a professional ice hockey team based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. They are members of the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference of the National Hockey League . The franchise was founded in 1967 as one of the first expansion teams during the league's original... (2010) |
| 20 | Canada |
Billy Jenkins | R | C | 1994 | Ottawa, Ontario | 2nd round (2010) | Eligible 2012 |
| 21 | Canada |
Carter Verhaeghe | L | C | 1995 | Waterdown, Ontario | 2nd round (2011) | Eligible 2013 |
| 22 | Canada |
David Pacan | R | C | 1991 | Ottawa, Ontario | 14th round (2007) | 6th round Chicago Chicago Blackhawks The Chicago Blackhawks are a professional ice hockey team based in Chicago, Illinois. They are members of the Central Division of the Western Conference of the National Hockey League . They have won four Stanley Cup championships since their founding in 1926, most recently coming in 2009-10... (2009) |
| 23 | Canada |
Mitchell Theoret | L | C | 1993 | Montreal, Quebec | 8th round (2009) | 7th round N.Y. Islanders New York Islanders The New York Islanders are a professional ice hockey team based in Uniondale, New York. They are members of the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference of the National Hockey League... (2011) |
| 24 | Canada |
Mitch Bennett | R | RW | 1992 | Fenelon Falls, Ontario | Trade BAR Barrie Colts The Barrie Colts are a junior ice hockey team in Ontario Hockey League, based in Barrie, Ontario, Canada. There were two previous Barrie Colts team which played Junior A & B hockey in the Ontario Hockey Association, one from 1907 until 1910 and another from the 1920s to 1940s.-Original Colts:The... (2011) |
Free Agent |
Single season records
| Team records for a single season | ||
| Statistic | Total | Season |
|---|---|---|
| Most points | 96 | 2010-11 |
| Least points | 60 | 2009-10 2009–10 OHL season The 2009–10 OHL season was the 30th season of the Ontario Hockey League . Twenty teams played 68 games each during the regular season schedule, which started on September 17, 2009 and ended on March 14, 2010.... |
| Most wins | 45 | 2010-11 |
| Least wins | 26 | 2008–09 and 2009–10 |
| Most goals for | 273 | 2010-11 |
| Least goals for | 191 | 2009-10 |
| Most goals against | 264 | 2008–09 |
| Least goals against | 197 | 2010-11 |
| Individual player records for a single season | |||
| Statistic | Player | Total | Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Most goals | Luca Caputi Luca Caputi Gianluca Caputi is a Canadian professional ice hockey player currently playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs of the National Hockey League . Luca grew up in Maple, Ontario, a suburban community northor the same team for four seasons, even after the Mississauga IceDogs moved and became the Niagara... |
51 | 2007–08 |
| Most assists | Ryan Strome | 73 | 2010-11 |
| Most points | Luca Caputi | 111 | 2007–08 |
| Most points, rookie | Marco Insam | 41 | 2008–09 |
| Most points, defenceman | Dougie Hamilton | 58 | 2010-11 |
| Most penalty minutes | Jordan Foreman | 155 | 2007–08 |
| Most wins, goalie | Mark Visentin Mark Visentin Mark Visentin is a Canadian major junior ice hockey player currently playing for the Niagara IceDogs of the Ontario Hockey League . He was selected 27th overall by the Phoenix Coyotes in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, and was the second goaltender taken in the draft... |
30 | 2010-11 |
| Best GAA, goalie | Mark Visentin Mark Visentin Mark Visentin is a Canadian major junior ice hockey player currently playing for the Niagara IceDogs of the Ontario Hockey League . He was selected 27th overall by the Phoenix Coyotes in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, and was the second goaltender taken in the draft... |
2.52 | 2010-11 |
| Goalie GAA = minimum 15 games played | |||
Career scoring and goalie leaders
These are the top-ten point-scorers in franchise history. Figures are updated after each completed OHL regular season.| Player | GP | G | A | Pts | Seasons |
| Andrew Agozzino | 251 | 119 | 99 | 218 | 2007–08 to 2010-11 |
| Alex Friesen | 230 | 65 | 108 | 173 | 2007–08 to 2010-11 |
| Freddie Hamilton Freddie Hamilton Freddie Hamilton is a Canadian ice hockey player currently playing for the Niagara IceDogs of the Ontario Hockey League . He was selected by the San Jose Sharks in the 5th round of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. His brother, Dougie Hamilton is a defenseman for the Niagara IceDogs... |
197 | 73 | 93 | 166 | 2008–09 to 2010-11 |
| Ryan Strome Ryan Strome Ryan Strome is a Canadian ice hockey player currently playing for the Niagara IceDogs of the OHL.Ryan Strome was selected 8th overall in the 2009 OHL Priority Selection by the Barrie Colts. In 2010 he was traded to the Niagara IceDogs. He was selected fifth overall in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft by... |
92 | 36 | 83 | 119 | 2009–10 to 2010-11 |
| Chris DeSousa | 160 | 66 | 48 | 114 | 2007–08 to 2009-10 |
| Luca Caputi Luca Caputi Gianluca Caputi is a Canadian professional ice hockey player currently playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs of the National Hockey League . Luca grew up in Maple, Ontario, a suburban community northor the same team for four seasons, even after the Mississauga IceDogs moved and became the Niagara... |
66 | 51 | 60 | 111 | 2007–08 |
| Michael Swift | 68 | 38 | 62 | 100 | 2007–08 |
| Drew Shiestel | 131 | 18 | 67 | 85 | 2007–08 to 2008-09 |
| Alex Pietrangelo Alex Pietrangelo Alexander Pietrangelo is a Canadian professional ice hockey player and alternate captain currently playing for the St. Louis Blues of the National Hockey League . As a junior, he played with the Niagara IceDogs and the Barrie Colts of the Ontario Hockey League... |
96 | 21 | 61 | 82 | 2007–08 to 2008-09 |
| Dougie Hamilton | 131 | 15 | 59 | 74 | 2009-10 to 2010-11 |
These are the top-five goalies (ranked by wins) in franchise history. Figures are updated after each completed OHL regular season.
| Player | Mins | W | L | OTL | SOL | GAA | SVP | SO | Seasons |
| Mark Visentin Mark Visentin Mark Visentin is a Canadian major junior ice hockey player currently playing for the Niagara IceDogs of the Ontario Hockey League . He was selected 27th overall by the Phoenix Coyotes in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, and was the second goaltender taken in the draft... |
7022 | 59 | 46 | 4 | 10 | 3.01 | .907 | 4 | 2008–09 to 2010-11 |
| Sebastien Dahm | 1517 | 20 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 2.53 | .917 | 2 | 2007–08 |
| Andrew Loverock | 2091 | 16 | 17 | 0 | 1 | 3.56 | .891 | 1 | 2007–08 |
| Jeremy Smith | 1488 | 12 | 9 | 1 | 2 | 3.18 | .913 | 2 | 2008–09 |
| Dalton McGrath | 830 | 10 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 2.67 | .913 | 1 | 2010-11 |
Regular season
Legend: OTL = Overtime loss, SL = Shootout loss| Season Season (sports) In an organized sports league, a season is the portion of one year in which regulated games of the sport are in session. For example, in Major League Baseball, one season lasts approximately from April 1 through October 1; in Association football, it is generally from August until May In an... |
Games | Won | Lost | OTL | SL | Points | Pct % | Goals For |
Goals Against |
Standing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2007–08 2007–08 OHL season The 2007–08 OHL season was the 28th season of the Ontario Hockey League. Twenty teams played 68 games each during the schedule, that started on September 19, 2007, and concluded on March 16, 2008.... |
68 | | 42 | 25 | 0 | 1 | 85 | .625 | 272 | 214 | 2nd Central |
| 2008–09 2008–09 OHL season The 2008–09 OHL season was the 29th season of the Ontario Hockey League . Twenty teams played 68 games each during the regular season schedule, which started on September 17, 2008 and concluded on March 15, 2009.... |
68 | | 26 | 31 | 5 | 6 | 63 | .463 | 213 | 264 | 4th Central |
| 2009–10 2009–10 OHL season The 2009–10 OHL season was the 30th season of the Ontario Hockey League . Twenty teams played 68 games each during the regular season schedule, which started on September 17, 2009 and ended on March 14, 2010.... |
68 | | 26 | 34 | 2 | 6 | 60 | .441 | 191 | 233 | 4th Central |
| 2010–11 2010–11 OHL season The 2010–11 OHL season is the 31st season of the Ontario Hockey League . Twenty teams played 68 games each during the regular season schedule, which started on September 23, 2010 and ended on March 20, 2011.... |
68 | | 45 | 17 | 2 | 4 | 96 | .706 | 273 | 197 | 2nd Central |
Playoffs
| Season | 1st round | 2nd round | 3rd round | Finals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2007-08 | W, 4–0, Mississauga Majors | L, 4–2, Oshawa Generals | — | — |
| 2008-09 | W, 4-3, Ottawa 67s | L, 4-1, Belleville Bulls | — | — |
| 2009-10 | L, 4-1, Ottawa 67s | — | — | — |
| 2010-11 | W, 4-0, Brampton Battalion | W, 4–1, Oshawa Generals | L, 4-1, Mississauga Majors | — |
Uniforms and logos
The IceDogs colours are red, black and white. The Home jersey is black with red, black and white diagonal stripes on the sleeves with two crossed dog bones on each shoulder. The Away jersey is white with red, black and white diagonal stripes on the sleeves with two crossed dog bones on each shoulder. The Niagara logo is a Bull TerrierBull Terrier
The Bull Terrier or English Bull Terrier is a breed of dog in the terrier family. They are known for their large, egg-shaped head, small triangular eyes, and "jaunty gait." Their temperament has been described as generally fun-loving, active and clownish...
(modelled after former team part-owner Don Cherry's famous dog, "Blue") playing hockey in hockey gear. The team wears red and black CCM gloves and CCM helmets (black or white, depending upon their jersey colour). In 2008–09, the IceDogs launched a third jersey, which is currently being worn by the team during warmups. It is a red jersey, featuring the Bull Terrier logo on top of a large N.
Arena
The Gatorade Garden City Complex, formerly known as the Garden City Arena and the Jack Gatecliff arena, is a publicly owned and operated facility and is the main arena in St. Catharines. It is located at 8 Gale Crescent and features two ice surfaces (the Rex Stimers arena and the Jack Gatecliff arena). The IceDogs play in the Jack Gatecliff Arena of the complex. The arena's capacity is 3,145 including standing room, making it smaller than most CHL arenas. With an ice surface of 190 x 85 feet, its dimensions are also smaller than the typical CHL ice surface. It is commonly referred to by fans as 'the Jack.'The original arena was built in 1932 and became the oldest arena currently used in the CHL following the Windsor Spitfires move to the WFCU Centre in 2008–09. It was previously used by the St. Catharines Teepees
St. Catharines Teepees
The St. Catharines Teepees were a junior ice hockey team in the Ontario Hockey Association from 1947 to 1962. The team was based in St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada.-History:...
, St. Catharines Black Hawks
St. Catharines Black Hawks
The St. Catharines Black Hawks were a junior ice hockey team in the Ontario Hockey Association from 1962 to 1976. The team was based in St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada.-History:...
, St. Catharines Fincups and the St. Catharines Saints
St. Catharines Saints
The St. Catharines Saints was a minor league ice hockey team in St. Catharines, Ontario. It played in the American Hockey League from 1982–1986 as the farm team of the Toronto Maple Leafs....
and is also the home to the St. Catharines Jr. B Falcons. Renovated in 1996, it was named after local sportswriter Jack Gatecliff. The Jack Gatecliff Arena name has now been applied to the pad that the IceDogs play on, while the name of the facility itself was changed on September 19, 2007. The IceDogs typically play home games on either Thursday or Saturday nights, while the Falcons play their home games on Friday nights.
On March 1, 2009, the Niagara IceDogs hosted a home game at Niagara Falls Memorial Arena
Niagara Falls Memorial Arena
The Niagara Falls Memorial Arena is an arena located in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. It was built in 1950 and has a capacity of approximately 3,000. The arena was home to various ice hockey teams in the past, including the Niagara Falls Thunder and the Niagara Falls Flyers...
in nearby Niagara Falls, Ontario. The arena, slated to close in 2010, was the former home to both the Niagara Falls Flyers
Niagara Falls Flyers
----The Niagara Falls Flyers were two junior ice hockey franchises that played in the top tier in the Ontario Hockey Association. The first, a Junior "A" team existed from 1960 until 1972, and the second in Tier I Junior "A" from 1976 until 1982....
and the Niagara Falls Thunder
Niagara Falls Thunder
The Niagara Falls Thunder was a junior ice hockey team in the Ontario Hockey League from 1988 to 1996. The team was based in Niagara Falls, Ontario.-History:...
. The game was billed as the last OHL game in the arena. The announced crowd of 3,167 was the largest home crowd in franchise history.
External links
- Niagara IceDogs Official web site
- Ontario Hockey League Official web site
- Canadian Hockey League Official web site
- Niagara IceDogs Fans Site Unofficial web site
- Niagara IceDogs on Twitter Official Twitter feed