IRBE ASSIGNED TO ECHL [Archive]

talkingcanes

10-17-2003, 08:45 AM

from today's N&O.......

Friday, October 17, 2003 12:00AM EDT
Hurricanes assign Irbe to Johnstown of ECHL
By J.P. GIGLIO, Staff Writer

The Carolina Hurricanes finally found a team for former top goalie Arturs Irbe on Thursday.
The Canes assigned Irbe to the Johnstown Chiefs of the East Coast Hockey League. Irbe practiced with the low minor-league team in Pennsylvania on Thursday.

Irbe, the Carolina franchise's career leader in wins and games played, will make $2.7 million to play for the Chiefs . Irbe, a two-time NHL All-Star and the Canes' starter during the 2002 Stanley Cup finals, also is owed $2.5 million by the Canes for the 2004-05 season.

"I'm not excited about having a player with an NHL contract in the minors," Canes general manager Jim Rutherford said Thursday. "But this does help sort out our goalie situation. It's not good to have players sitting around."

Rutherford repeatedly has said this offseason that Irbe has no chance of playing again for the Canes. They had been looking for an ECHL team for Irbe and goalie Rob Zepp, who still is without a minor-league roster spot.

Prospect Daniel Boisclair and Jeff Maund are the two goalies for the Canes' ECHL affiliate, the Florida Everblades. At the AHL level, the Canes entered a partnership with the Calgary Flames this year to share the roster at Lowell, Mass. The Canes can have only one goalie in Lowell, and that will be Patrick DesRochers to start the season.

lvscolencanes

10-17-2003, 09:08 AM

I am sorry, but this really sucks! I dont think by no means Irbe deserves THIS. Some may disagree, but he should have renegociated his contract. I can not see someone one who was a goalie at the SCF two years ago playing in a run down arena in the ECHL. He might have said somethings that were not right in some's eyes, but this is a little ridiculous! :cry:

Turbulence

10-17-2003, 09:31 AM

He has had the opportunity to get out of this contract before, yet continued to hold out knowing that he was probably going to have to play in the low minors this season. He deserves this because he all but asked for it.

I love the guy, but you have to admit that he had an out and didn't take it. Though the management of this team hasn't been very...um...hospitable to him over the last year, they still gave him an 'out' that would have allowed him to try to compete for another club and he didn't take it. Arche knew what was going to happen when he rejected the buyout...and there he is. As much as I'd like to see him somewhere else, he pretty much sealed his own fate. He deserves to be in Johnstown because he basically put himself there.

Shell

10-17-2003, 09:45 AM

I agree Turby. He dug his own hole,and it was with more than the "Play me or trade me" antics. He could have accepted a buy-out, or a reduced salary to make him attractive to other NHL teams. He won't. I think he's willing to play in the ECHL because he wants to stick it to the Canes.

lvscolencanes

10-17-2003, 10:04 AM

Well I didnt think about it that way. But you know, you are prob right, and thats not right. I guess I just cant get the past out of my head when he was on good terms with the Canes. But you are right, he prob is tryin to stick it to them. But then again, he might know he wont be able to make that money again, and trying to get all he can, before he gets to old to play, so I dont know, its not right on both parts.. :sad:

Shell

10-17-2003, 10:11 AM

I agree Allie.. it is hard for me as well. I was always a staunch supporter of Irbe before last year. I used to cuss Mo for putting Barasso in because Irbe wasnted to play all 82 games himself lol

Guyute

10-17-2003, 10:24 AM

yeah, it is sad to see. but, you can't lay this on JR or the canes. this is Irbe's doing. he had other options, and would rather just take the money and whatever happens happens. well... here you go.

PennsylvaniaCanesFan

10-17-2003, 11:28 AM

First off, granted the War Memoral in Johnstown is run down, but they did renovate it.
Second, I am definatly exicited to see Irbe in Johnstown. This is a great boon to the team. The Chiefs are in danger of being moved unless they meet attendence and revenue standards, set by former GM Neil Smith, now owner of the Chiefs. Hopefully the local populace will come to see an NHL star in the crease.
Third, I agree with the Canes in finding a place for him. There isn't a spot on the Canes, Lowell seems full, and the Everblades have two prospect goalies. Instead of letting him rot on the bench somewhere, at least let him play. Perhaps he will regain some form along the line and be called up to play for some NHL team.

EpiK-KA14

10-17-2003, 12:10 PM

He's gonna take the money and run, which isn't exactly stupid on his part.

He saw that nobody in the NHL wants him anymore, even when the 'Canes offered to pay a good amount of his salary. That means he's done in the NHL. He has to realize that now.

So, he could have taken a buyout and retired, or he could still play hockey and collect $2.7M for doing so. Yea, it's not the NHL, but he's going to be a celebrity in whatever town he ends up in. To be wanted and appreciated is a wonderful thing, even at the ECHL level.

Once his time is up, I expect him to move overseas to finish out his career closer to home.... with over $5M in his pocket for waiting to do so.

I've always been on the Weekes side of the Irbe/Weekes debate, but if he's done in the NHL, he's going out on his terms and he's making a lot of money doing so. Good for him.

guinevere

10-17-2003, 12:51 PM

I found the link to this posted on a ..uh hm...other site.. (Thanks SCCaniac)

Two-time NHL all-star excited to join Chiefs

By MIKE MASTOVICH, THE TRIBUNE-DEMOCRAT October 17, 2003

[size=18]The Johnstown Chiefs filled their final roster spot yesterday with the most high-profile transaction in the team’s 16-year ECHL history.
Former NHL all-star goaltender Arturs Irbe, who helped lead the Carolina Hurricanes to the 2002 Stanley Cup Finals, was assigned to Johnstown yesterday afternoon.
“It’s a great bunch of guys. I got a chance to meet up with them and had a practice,” Irbe said last night during a telephone interview in Toledo, Ohio. “They didn’t take it easy on me, I’ve got to tell you. The level of this league has improved each year.”
The veteran goalie also is familiar with the area’s hockey heritage.
“It’s an honor to be a Johnstown Chief. I can say I played in the same town as the Hanson Brothers,” Irbe said, laughing about the characters in the movie “Slap Shot” filmed in Johnstown. “Hopefully I’ll get to wear the blue, gold and white uniform some day.”
Irbe, 36, joined the Chiefs and practiced with the team yesterday at the Toledo Sports Arena. He will be available for today’s 8 p.m. regular-season opener against the Toledo Storm, but possibly won’t start until the Chiefs’ home opener against Long Beach tomorrow at 7 p.m. at Cambria County War Memorial Arena.
The Chiefs had 20 players on the roster prior to Irbe’s assignment, which means another move must be made.
“I think everyone was kind of stunned,” said Chiefs player-assistant coach and team captain Brent Bilodeau, an 11th-year pro and former first-round draft pick of the Montreal Canadiens.
“They thought it was a joke at first. It was like, ‘Are you serious?’ The guys are pretty excited. I think the young goaltenders are excited. What a great experience to play with a NHL veteran who’s been around for a long time.”
Chiefs majority owner Neil Smith, the former New York Rangers general manager, had a significant role in Irbe’s assignment.
“I’m friends with (Carolina Hurricanes General Manager) Jimmy Rutherford, and it was something Jimmy had called me about and asked if I would be interested in,” Smith said yesterday when reached in Toronto. “I said, ‘Of course.’
“We’ll see how the fans react to it, but we’re certainly hoping that it will spur a lot of interest in the team in Johnstown and at the same time make us much more competitive.”
Rutherford and Carolina assistant GM Jason Karmanos could not be reached for comment.
In 558 career NHL games, Irbe is 213-234-78. Only Detroit’s Dominik Hasek has more wins among European-born goalies.
“I’m a big believer in first impressions,” said second-year Chiefs head coach Toby O’Brien. “My first impression of Arturs on and off the ice was excellent. I’m looking forward to this as a coach.
“We’re taking it one week at a time right now. He has a very positive attitude and just in one afternoon has meshed extremely well with our guys. From what I’ve seen in one practice, he’ll work harder than most players to be successful and help the team succeed. This guy works his tail off at practice.”
The native of Riga, Latvia, spent the last five seasons with the Hurricanes, including 34 games last season when he was 7-24-2 with a 3.18 goals against average as Carolina went from first to last in the Southeast Division. Irbe also played seven games with Carolina’s AHL affiliate in Lowell, Mass., last season after he cleared waivers in February.
Published reports list Irbe’s Carolina salary as $2.7 million this year.
Only $500 a week will count against the ECHL salary cap.
Two seasons ago, Irbe went 20-19-11 with a 2.54 GAA. Carolina advanced to the Stanley Cup Finals, losing in five games to the Red Wings. He won 10 games in the 2002 playoffs and had the league’s third-best postseason goals against average (1.67) and save percentage (.938). Irbe made 50 saves in a 3-2 overtime loss to Detroit in Game 3 of the Finals.
“Sometimes life throws us curveballs,” O’Brien said. “This happens to be one of those times. A situation between Arturs and Carolina developed, and it did not look like he would be playing there. There was an effort to place him in the minors. In today’s game there is no International League in existence. The American League is focusing solely on youth and prospects.
“In Carolina’s case, they’re splitting their AHL affiliate in Lowell with Calgary. That meant the No. 1 prospect in each organization made that placement in Lowell impossible (for Irbe).”
Lowell has former Chiefs goaltender Dany Sabourin (2-0), a Calgary contract player, and Carolina prospect Patrick DesRochers (1-0). The NHL Hurricanes have Kevin Weekes and Jamie Storr in net.
Carolina also has ECHL working agreements with the Florida Everblades and Greensboro Generals. Florida has goaltenders Jeff Maund and Daniel Boisclair on the roster, and the Generals have veteran Daniel Berthiaume and Martin Kresac.
“The placement at the next highest professional league was chosen, and that’s the ECHL,” O’Brien said. “The friendship between Neil Smith and Jim Rutherford initiated this process.”
The Chiefs also have first-year pro David Currie, 21, and second-year pro Cory Campbell, 22, in goal. Both are former Ontario Hockey League standouts, with Campbell playing part of last season in the United Hockey League.
“Arturs has already been talking to both kids,” O’Brien said. “I told them face-to-face to use this as a learning experience. As a first-year pro, to have somebody who’s been to the Stanley Cup Finals and played in the Olympics, one of the top NHL goaltenders over the past decade, work side by side with you, that is invaluable.”
Irbe said the ECHL talent might be underestimated at the higher levels in hockey.
“The skill level is very good. It’s improving every year, especially since the IHL folded,” said Irbe, who played in the 1994 and ’99 NHL All-Star Game. “There have been less jobs in the AHL. That has created some room for improvement in the ECHL. I can witness it first hand myself. It’s not a walk on the beach. These guys have taken their business very seriously.”
When asked if he will start tonight, Irbe said, “I’ll leave it to Toby. He controls that department. We are here as his soldiers. We’ll go to war when we are told to.”

Kapanen024

10-17-2003, 01:36 PM

Eeek! I live like 15 minutes from the War Memorial... PCF and I are going to see Irbe play Saturday nite!!!
(Forgive me ~ I'm really excited!) :)

1Irbegirlforever

10-17-2003, 01:48 PM

This is not the Arturs Irbe I came to know here in Carolina.

Yes, I know certain of you don't like him and are certainly dancing for joy over this. But the Arturs Irbe I knew wouldn't accept this--he'd have accepted a buyout and negotiated a new contract with another team and fought his way back into the NHL. I think something died inside of him back in June of 2002--he hasn't been the same guy since then.

This hurts to see. :sad:

I totally agree. Losing the cup to the wings really got to him. He wasn't the same after that.

guinevere

10-17-2003, 02:07 PM

Eeek! I live like 15 minutes from the War Memorial... PCF and I are going to see Irbe play Saturday nite!!!
(Forgive me ~ I'm really excited!) :)

Tell him we said "Hi". I may go to see him when the Canes play New Jersey. I think the Chiefs play in Atlantic City a couple of days near then but I could be wrong.

RIO

10-17-2003, 05:54 PM

As sorry as I am about Arch not being here, I am a little glad that he's playing SOMEWHERE. Atleast he won't be sitting about. And the Chiefs jerseys are actually quite nice.

I do wish we'd see him again though. I miss him.

talkingcanes

10-17-2003, 06:17 PM

Chiefs player-assistant coach and team captain Brent Bilodeau

do you think he's the trainer and water boy too :eek2: :D

SouthernHockeyChick

10-17-2003, 10:51 PM

Does Johnstown ever play Greensboro? (yes, I know woefully little about the ECHL)

guinevere

10-17-2003, 11:29 PM

Sadly...no.

Shell

10-17-2003, 11:46 PM

Does Johnstown ever play Greensboro? (yes, I know woefully little about the ECHL)

I know little about anything, but as usual, looked it up :beatup:
If I had a memory, I'd be smart as hell lol

some info on the Johnstown Chiefs:

Conference: Eastern
Division: Northern
Coached by: Toby O'Brien
AHL Affiliate: Cleveland Barons
NHL Affiliate: San Jose Sharks
Home Arena: Cambria County War Memorial, Johnstown PA
Seating Capacity: 4001

their website: http://www.johnstownchiefs.com/

http://www.johnstownchiefs.com/images/graphics/home.gif

Chiefs Home Opener Saturday Night

For Immediate Release
October 17, 2003
For More Information Contact: Kevin McGeehan (814) 539-1799 x222

Johnstown, PA- The Johnstown Chiefs will host the Long Beach Ice Dogs Saturday night at the War Memorial Arena, in what promises to be one of the most memorable opening nights in team history. Game time is at 7:05 p.m.

Former NHL all-star goaltender Arturs Irbe is scheduled to make his Chiefs debut after being assigned Thursday from the Carolina Hurricanes. Prior to the game former Johnstown Jet legend Galen Head will have his #8 retired.

This will be the first regular season game in the newly renovated Cambria County War Memorial Arena.

The first 1,500 people through the gate will receive a free magnetic Chiefs schedule courtesy of Concurrent Technologies Corporation. Tickets for the home opener are available at the War Memorial Box Office or by calling (814) 536-5156 or 1-800-CHF-TIXX.
-IT'S NOT JUST A RENOVATION, IT'S A REVOLUTION-

Their schedule:
http://www.johnstownchiefs.com/schedule/full/index.htm
Cities they visit this season:
Atlantic City, Cincinnati, Dayton, Long Beach, Peoria, Reading, Roanoke, Texas, Toledo, Trenton, Wheeling

The history (http://www.johnstownchiefs.com/history/index.htm) is pretty interesting as well.

guinevere

10-18-2003, 12:04 AM

They supposedly played Toledo tonight but I can't find a score anywhere.

Shell

10-18-2003, 12:25 AM

nope, the article above is from their website. Tomorrow is their season opener.

SouthernHockeyChick

10-18-2003, 01:02 AM

I know little about anything, but as usual, looked it up Which is why I asked here because I knew someone would and I was too lazy. :beatup: Thanks!

BTW, somehow I did know that Johnstown put Irbe back in the San Jose organization. Must have read that somewhere.

guinevere

10-18-2003, 12:18 PM

nope, the article above is from their website. Tomorrow is their season opener.

According to their schedule they played Toledo. Saturday is their home opener....

They lost 1-4 but Irbe didn't play.He'll be in net tonight.

And SHC -I posted the affiliation with SJS on another thread. That may be where you read it. :D

Shell

10-18-2003, 12:59 PM

d'oh, sorry guin, I misread that.

Veteran NHL goaltender on Johnstown roster
By DAN SAEVIG
BLADE SPORTS WRITER

He will make enough money over this season and next to buy the Johnstown Chiefs, the Toledo Storm, and another ECHL club, and still have change left over.

So what was Arturs Irbe, the Carolina Hurricanes reported $5.7 million goaltender, doing before last night’s game at the Sports Arena? Sewing an Irbe-made protective pad into the catching glove of one of his new net-minding partners with the Chiefs.

Less than a year and a half after leading the Hurricanes into the Stanley Cup Finals against the eventual champion Detroit Red Wings, the 36-year-old was shockingly assigned to Johnstown on Thursday by Carolina.

The move came after the Hurricanes opted to put a young prospect with its Lowell farm club in the American Hockey League. Carolina is splitting the two goaltending openings there with the Calgary Flames, leaving Irbe - who didn’t suit-up against the Storm - as the odd man out and willing equipment repair-man in Toledo.

"I’m here unexpectedly," Irbe said. "People have different perceptions, but I’m the same guy I was on previous teams as I am here. Obviously, there’s an age difference between myself and most of the other players; a pretty big one. If I can help them with something, I’m more than willing to share my knowledge and my experience."

A veteran of 12 NHL seasons, Irbe won 10 games during the 2002 Stanley Cup playoffs. After going 7-24-2 last year, he was placed on waivers and went unclaimed. He’s in the ECHL, hoping that another club will need a two-time NHL all-star who has played in 558 big league contests.

"If I didn’t, I wouldn’t be talking to you and I’d probably be somewhere in a corner, hiding and just trying to get by," Irbe said. "But it’s not what I’m looking for. I’m looking forward to getting some games and helping the kids on and off the ice.

"Anything’s possible and that’s what I’m looking for. I know right now that it’s not in my hands.

"I’m not going to change and become a different guy than I was before. I’m still going to work really hard and try to help these guys that are around me and who are happy to have me. Who knows what the future holds?"

MoBigRed

10-18-2003, 02:20 PM

I hope Irbe plays so well that the Sharks come knocking on the door inquiring about officially getting him in their organization.

Shell

10-18-2003, 03:35 PM

Captain Slack

10-18-2003, 05:27 PM

MoBigRed

10-18-2003, 06:12 PM

That would certainly be welcome! Nabokov, after holding out and sitting out the beginning of the season, didn't have a great year by any means.
They are already juggling two backups, which they can't trade no matter how hard they try.
"Sharks still juggling backup goalies", The Mercury News (http://www.bayarea.com/mld/mercurynews/sports/hockey/nhl/san_jose_sharks/7027291.htm)

I definitely wouldn't mind seeing a deal that takes Irbe to San Jose, but i'm not sure i'd want one of their backups in return - there's already too much of a logjam IMO, and i firmly believe that with the proper development and management, we'll be set for years with Weekes, Storr, Zepp, Ward, and Boisclair.

On the other hand, i think Kiprusoff is going to be good.

Staal-aholic

10-18-2003, 06:20 PM

they start in about 35 minutes

PennsylvaniaCanesFan

10-19-2003, 01:46 AM

I and Kapanen024 went to the Johnstown Chiefs and saw Irbe tonight. The final was Johnstown Chiefs 4, Long Beach Ice Dogs 1. Granted, Long Island does not have a stellar hockey club, but Irbe stopped 23 out of 24 shots. The only goal Irbe let in was a shot though a screen. Irbe really wasn't tested at all (Chiefs had 45 shots on goal or so). He did make a few nifty saves, and one flat on his back. He was awarded 2nd star of the game. He came out, greeted the crowd, and tossed a tee shirt into the crowd.

I tried to get his attention as the team came out of the locker room, but he completely had his game face on. Too bad. :(

Another intersting point. After attending three years of hockey in Johnstown, I never saw a Canes jersey there other than mine (Many people wear jerseys from other teams than the two playing). Tonight I saw a few Canes logos in the crowd.

Anyone interested in how Irbe is doing can check out the Johnstown Chiefs website at www.johnstownchiefs.com

MoBigRed

10-19-2003, 09:02 AM

Thanks for the update, PCF!

guinevere

10-19-2003, 12:15 PM

wish I could have been there...
not too bad considering the guy hasn't played since May.

Chiefs, Irbe collar Ice Dogs

By MIKE MASTOVICH, THE TRIBUNE-DEMOCRAT October 19, 2003

After playing 558 NHL games, making two NHL All-Star Game appearances and leading the Carolina Hurricanes to the 2002 Stanley Cup Finals, Arturs Irbe didn’t know exactly what to make of the ECHL.
Didn’t matter.
His Johnstown Chiefs teammates made sure that Irbe’s ECHL debut followed a memorable script last night.
Brent Kelly scored two goals, Chad Cavanagh and Jason Notermann each had a goal and an assist and Johnstown native Josh Piro tallied two assists as the Chiefs defeated the Long Beach Ice Dogs, 4-1, before a standing-room-only crowd of 4,011 at Cambria County War Memorial Arena.
“I’m awfully proud of this bunch of guys,” said Irbe, who was assigned to the Chiefs by the Hurricanes on Thursday and made his first appearance in the home opener. “They showed a lot of poise and a lot of heart and played really well for me. They made it an easy night for a rookie in this league.
“I was expecting a little bit more action around the net. The league is more offensive than the AHL or NHL. But our boys definitely did their part defensively. They made it so much easier for me.”
Irbe stopped 26 of 27 shots, but didn’t see much action in the first two periods, as the Chiefs (1-1-0) controlled the play.
At one point Johnstown held an 11-2 advantage in shots, and the Chiefs outshot the Ice Dogs, 30-16, through 40 minutes.
“I wouldn’t say I was nervous, but I didn’t know what to expect,” Irbe said. “I saw the game (Friday) night in Toledo. But that’s one thing. Another thing is to be in net. Actually it was a good feeling to be back on the ice and play. I haven’t had that chance since last May.
“It felt good. It’s good to be part of the team and to be wanted.”
Irbe, whose role with the Hurricanes diminished last season, was mired in an apparently strained relationship with the organization that waived him in February and reportedly attempted to trade him after he cleared waivers.
Irbe finished last season with the AHL Lowell Lock Monsters, but did not fit into the AHL picture this season because both Calgary and Carolina are affiliated with Lowell, and each NHL team sent its top goaltending prospect to the Lock Monsters.
That’s in the past, Chiefs coach Toby O’Brien said. Johnstown already has taken a liking to Irbe, who was named the No. 2 star behind Kelly last night.
“Arturs made a few big saves when he had to and allowed our boys to turn the energy around and open up the way I think we’re capable of playing,” O’Brien said. “A team effort. A team win.”
Chad Cavanagh gave the Chiefs a 1-0 advantage 13:21 into the first period with his second goal in as many nights.
“Their goaltender was playing well,” O’Brien said.
“We weren’t capitalizing on our rebounds and our opportunities in close. Sometimes a goalie gets in a zone. When we finally cracked the ice, I was happy.”
Piro assisted on the goal with a centering pass from the right-wing corner to Cavanagh near the slot. Notermann also had an assist.
“I definitely felt comfortable playing with Cavanagh and Notermann,” said Piro, the No. 3 star. “We were clicking well and we capitalized on our chances.”
Kelly scored just 51 seconds into the second period, putting in a rebound of Shawn Mather’s initial shot on Long Beach goaltender Colin Zulianello.
Chiefs captain Brent Bilodeau started the play with a pass to Mather at the blue line.
Mather’s backhander hit Zulianello in the chest and bounced into the low slot.
The Ice Dogs’ Eric LaPlante pulled his team within a goal by scoring at 16:03 of the second on a shot that banked off the post on Irbe’s glove side and into the net.
Piro started a sequence that led to a crucial Chiefs goal 1:32 into the third period.
Skating along the right-wing boards, Piro centered to Cavanagh, who passed to Notermann on the left side, and Notermann quickly hit the open net for a 3-1 lead.
Kelly lifted a shot over Zulianello’s shoulder 12:17 into the third for a three-goal Chiefs advantage.
Notes: Chiefs minority owner Richard Adams attended last night’s game. Adams also has ownership interest in Long Beach ... Johnstown’s Richard Paul and Bryce Charpentier fought 8:16 into the game. The 6-foot-2, 227-pound left wing had a second-period fight with Paul Braaten, and the Chiefs Jeff Sullivan bloodied Long Beach’s Kevin McDonald at 15:59 of the second.

It was pretty much standing room only.

raleighcanesfan

10-19-2003, 10:44 PM

Today's Chiefs (or is it Chieves? Not sure which is grammatically correct! ;) ) update--

6-1 win, Irbe didn't play.

Good news though--they will be home on Nov 28th and 29th (Thanksgiving weekend). Looks like I'll be getting some tickets!

raleighcanesfan

10-21-2003, 11:45 PM

Found a link to some pics of Irbe in goal for the Chiefs. He will start their next game as well. Not the clearest pics, but pretty neat!

http://www.johnstownchiefs.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/0304season/031018OpeningNight/index.html

nccanes

10-22-2003, 07:15 AM

Cool photos rcf.

Nice to see a (former) Cane smiling. Haven't had much of that have we?

guinevere

10-22-2003, 10:34 AM

Archie's in net again tonight. Here's to hoping we ALL will be smiling this time tomorrow. :beatup:

guinevere

10-22-2003, 10:48 AM

I hate replying to myself but this just struck me as funny -looking at promotions for the Chiefs -this one looks like a barnburner...

Heluva Good Cheese Family Sundays
Each Sunday home game is Heluva Good Cheese Family Sunday's. After each of these games there will be a "Skate With the Chiefs." Skate rentals will not be available. The Family Fun Ticket Package will also be available of Heluva Good Cheese Family Sundays.

Why don't we have Heluva Good Cheese Night? Tripp could be our spokes model - the King of Cheese. :D

mikus

10-22-2003, 04:03 PM

hey guys has anyone seen an article about irbe makin his debut with the win?

would be nice thanks..

guinevere

10-22-2003, 04:22 PM

Mikus,
The article I posted above is from the Johnstown paper regarding that game. I haven't seen another article.

raleighcanesfan

10-22-2003, 06:50 PM

More links. Unfortunately Johnstown, home of the killer floods, is a one paper town. Altoona (about 45 minutes away) and Pittsburgh (about 1 1/2 away) are the closest other cities, so they don't cover the Chiefs. My brother in law (in Ebensburg, PA) is keeping copies of the Tribune Demo-crap for me, so if any of you are interested, let me know!

http://www.tribune-democrat.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=10389183&BRD=2332&PAG=461&dept_id=484742&rfi=8

http://www.tribune-democrat.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=10343112&BRD=2332&PAG=461&dept_id=484742&rfi=8

raleighcanesfan

10-22-2003, 11:02 PM

Chiefs (with Irbe in net) beat an expansion team (Texas) tonight. He made 27 of 29 saves.

Link:
http://www.johnstownchiefs.com/indexa.htm

nccanes

10-27-2003, 04:55 PM

http://www.johnstownchiefs.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/Fan_Pics/0304/images/031022_chiefs13.jpg

Captain Slack

10-27-2003, 07:12 PM

Those pads are starting to look like his old one's! :beatup:

nccanes

10-27-2003, 08:24 PM

Sorry for the oversized picture. My work monitor is rather big and I suppose my resolution higher, so it didn't make the page scroll. Oops.

What I can't get over is the old floppy glove. That thing is still mostly his old glove from years and years ago.

mikus

10-28-2003, 06:47 AM

e2ipiand1

10-28-2003, 04:04 PM

Irbe Named Goalie Of the Week

For Immediate Release
October 28, 2003
For More Information Contact: Kevin McGeehan (814) 539-1799 x222

Johnstown, PA- Johnstown Chiefs goaltender Arturs Irbe is the ITECH Hockey ECHL Saver of the Week for October 20-26.

The two-time National Hockey League All-Star was 2-0 with a 1.50 goals against average and a .950 save percentage while helping the Chiefs improve to 4-1-0, tied for first place in the Northern Division with defending Kelly Cup Champion Atlantic City. Assigned to Johnstown by the Carolina Hurricanes of the NHL, Irbe made 27 saves, including 15 in the third period, in a 5-2 win against Texas on Wednesday. Irbe turned aside all 24 shots he faced over the final two periods and finished with 28 saves in a 6-1 win at Dayton on Friday.

The 36 year-old native of Riga, Latvia is 3-0-0 with a league-leading save percentage of .953. He is tied for the ECHL lead in wins and is tied for eighth in goals against average with 1.33.

The Chiefs are back in action this Friday night when they host the Dayton Bombers. Saturday night, the Reading Royals come to Johnstown. Face-off for both games is at 7:05 p.m. Friday, November 7th, Jeff Gordon's #24 race car will be on display at the War Memorial throughout the Chiefs/Toledo Storm hockey game. For tickets call (814) 536-5156 or 1-800-SLAPSHOT,

-IT'S NOT JUST A RENOVATION, IT'S A REVOLUTION-

guinevere

11-01-2003, 10:17 PM

Chiefs Win 3-1

For Immediate Release
November 1, 2003

Johnstown, PA- The Johnstown Chiefs got back to their winning ways Saturday night when they defeated the visiting Reading Royals 3-1 at the War Memorial.

Jason Notermann, Dominic Forget and Steve Hildenbrand (empty net goal) all scored for the Chiefs. Jonathan Zion scored the lone Reading goal. Arturs Irbe posted the win making 23 saves while Royals goaltender Cody Rudkowsky made 30 saves.

The Chiefs were 0 for 8 on the power play while Reading was 1 for 9

RIO

11-02-2003, 12:38 PM

Yeah!! Go Arch!! Back in the saddle http://home.fr.inter.net/gc12/x3dfx/woot.gif

And yes, Heluva Good Cheese night would certainly bring THIS girl in. :D :evil: There wouldnt even have to BE any cheese, I'd just show up anyway to be there on Cheese Night.

1Irbegirlforever

11-02-2003, 09:30 PM

Great job Archie! Your fans are all proud of you!

mikus

11-08-2003, 12:05 PM

Chiefs Pick Up Second Straight Win

For Immediate Release
November 7, 2003
For More Information Contact: Kevin McGeehan (814) 539-1799 x222

Johnstown, PA- The Johnstown Chiefs picked up their second win in a row Friday night with a 4-1 win over the visiting Toledo Storm.

Jason Notermann led the Chiefs with a goal and two assists. Jay Langager and Brent Kelly each had a goal and an assist. Shawn Mather also scored for the Chiefs. Toledo's lone goal came from Scott Horvath in the 3rd period.

Chiefs goaltender Arturs Irbe improved his record to 5-0-0 making 16 saves. Storm goaltender Doug Teskey made 31 saves in the defeat.

The Chiefs were 2 for 6 on the power play while Toledo was 0 for 4.
has anyone got an idea where i can get pictures from all these games?

raleighcanesfan

11-08-2003, 02:47 PM

Mikus--check out these two sites, although both are WEAK at updating. The Irbe pics from the Chiefs main site are from the first week. I'm going to a game over T-giving (folks live in Indiana, PA), so I'll snap some and post them!!

http://www.johnstownchiefs.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/photoindex.htm

http://www.tribune-democrat.com/site/news.cfm?brd=2332
(Above is Johnstown's one-horse newspaper)

raleighcanesfan

11-08-2003, 02:48 PM

Here's the link to the game article (one, small, out of focus pic)

http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=10482866&BRD=2332&PAG=461&dept_id=484741&rfi=6

guinevere

11-08-2003, 04:02 PM

Hey, look who got an assist on the last goal ...

JOH - (EN) JAY LANGAGER 2 (ARTURS IRBE) 18:56
:smoke:

mikus

11-09-2003, 05:52 AM

Here's the link to the game article (one, small, out of focus pic)

http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=10482866&BRD=2332&PAG=461&dept_id=484741&rfi=6
thanks for the link!
at least a page where I can find good game articles. thank you. :)

the pics at johnstownchiefs.com are good, but very old. there are a few from the opening night and some fan photos...but thanks anyway

cmw00

11-12-2003, 01:58 PM

Tough Game for Archie:
Bullies strafe former NHL star goalie Irbe
By BILL LeCONEY Staff Writer, (609) 272-7187, E-Mail

ATLANTIC CITY - Arturs Irbe brought an impressive resume into
Sunday's ECHL game at Boardwalk Hall. The Boardwalk Bullies tossed it
aside and said: "Next goalie, please."

The Bullies scored goals of just about every variety in a 5-0 win
over Irbe and the Johnstown Chiefs before an announced crowd of 2,848
at Boardwalk Hall. It was the first of back-to-back games at the Hall
between the top two teams in the Northern Division.

Bullies goaltender Scott Stirling, 558 games short of Irbe in NHL
experience, won the personal matchup with a 25-save performance,
posting his first shutout of the season and 10th of his pro career.

"I thought it about last night before bed," Stirling said of facing
Irbe, a two-time NHL all-star who helped the Carolina Hurricanes get
to the Stanley Cup Finals two years ago. Irbe's performance declined
last season and the Hurricanes were unable to trade him, due in part
to his reported $2.7 million salary this season, so they assigned him
to the Chiefs.

"This guy doesn't deserve to be here, we all know it," Stirling
said. "He's in the wrong league, but it's not me versus Arturs, it's
the Bullies versus the Chiefs. We had some pretty good goals, and we
played pretty well defensively. It was a good win for us."

The Bullies (8-3-0) bounced back in a big way from frustrating back-
to-back losses to intrastate rival Trenton last week. They beat the
team that had overtaken them in the Northern Division standings - a
team that leads the league in goals allowed per game - and easily
solved a goalie with more than 200 NHL wins.

"It means a lot to score against him," said rookie Jon Cullen, who
rifled a shorthanded slapshot past Irbe in the first period and later
assisted on Luke Curtin's shorthanded goal. "I try not to focus on
what's going on with the other team, but everyone knew who was in
goal tonight, and it's a little more incentive to get a goal. It
feels pretty good."

Irbe had allowed only six goals in six previous games, all wins. He
was coming off a shutout of Trenton on Saturday.

To be fair, he didn't get much help Sunday from his teammates, who
consistently let the Bullies flow freely in the Johnstown zone and
set up camp in front of the net. If not for several acrobatic saves
by the 5-foot-8 goalie, the Bullies would have scored eight or more
goals.

"They were playing their third game in three nights, and they might
have been a little sluggish defensively," Cullen said. "But we played
well. We had a couple off games against Trenton, and we bore down
today. We played our systems well, and that's one thing (coach Mike
Haviland) has really been a stickler on lately. We needed to play
better as a team."

The Bullies scored shorthanded goals in each of the first two
periods. Cullen broke in alone on the right side and fired a slapshot
over Irbe's left shoulder at 6 minutes, 20 seconds of the first. Irbe
kept the deficit at one with several big saves later in the period,
including an NHL-caliber stop on Jim Henkel after a fluky bounce off
the boards.

In the second period, the Bullies killed off a 17-second two-man
disadvantage and then again struck shorthanded. Cullen broke in on a
2-on-1 with Luke Curtin, who easily deposited the rebound of Cullen's
shot for a 2-0 lead.

Preston Mizzi scored on a one-time blast in the slot off a nice feed
from Stefan Rivard, and rookie John Sabo notched his second career
goal on a pass from behind the net by Sam Paolini. In the third
period, Rivard tipped home a Dave Reid point blast.

Several altercations, including a heavyweight bout between Kam White
and Richard Paul, consumed the final minutes. Stirling took a cheap
shot from a Johnstown player in the final seconds and made a run at
the offending Chief.

"Silly stuff," Stirling called it. "You get tangled up and emotions
take over. You need some of that silly stuff to keep the fans
interested."

NOTES: Rookie defenseman Brian Eberly picked up his first
professional point with an assist on Mizzi's goal in the second
period. ... Henkel and Mizzi returned to the lineup after missing
Friday's game in Trenton for violating a team rule. ... The Bullies
went 0 for 7 on the power play and are in a 2 for 27 slump. ... The
first edition of "Bullies Monday," live from Damon's Restaurant in
Egg Harbor Township, will air today from 7-8 p.m. on ESPN Radio 1450-
AM. Haviland will answer questions about the Bullies, and Stirling
will be the featured player guest.

guinevere

11-12-2003, 03:40 PM

I wouldn't go so far as to call it a game - 32 penalties -18 against the Chiefs with several 10 minutes and several majors. Definately tough game for Archie with third game in three days and virtually no defensive backup.

RIO

11-12-2003, 03:51 PM

This stuff happens, yeah. 5 goals. Some of the best in the business are springing MUCH bigger leaks right now at the NHL level, so it looks to me that Arch is still doing really well. I mean, six goals in six games and a shut-out is fantastic. :)

guinevere

11-12-2003, 03:58 PM

lvscolencanes

11-12-2003, 04:10 PM

You read my mind, Rio (but then you have that super secret tracking mind reading ball). 18 penalties!!! More than half the game in the box. Sounds like trying to stop goals in the middle of a bull riding competition.

:laugh: Funny but very true, poor Archie!! Gosh D give him some help, stay out the box!! I have noticed how ECHL tends to be that way tho, alot of fights and penalities....My PeeDee Pride was like that.. :evil:

guinevere

11-12-2003, 04:16 PM

32 penalties seems a lot even for the ECHL. I was looking back and it was twice or more than the games previous. Can you imagine? Where were the Hanson brothers ?

PennsylvaniaCanesFan

11-13-2003, 12:00 AM

Johnstown isn't a team to pick fights, but if provoked, they will. They are a team that if tripped, will trip you back, if roughed, will rough you back. Archie is doing wonders for Johnstown. Johnstown's coach is using Archie for two games, then thier backup, then Archie for 2, then thier other backup.

But everyone on the Chiefs is playing well now. Not just Archie.

guinevere

11-13-2003, 12:29 AM

I"m sure the rest of the team is playing well. You don't get wins by goaltending alone. That particular game sounded much more rowdy than the others I"ve read about. Wish I could see one in person. did the coach just breakpattern this time because it seemed like Archie played three games in three days or did I misread?

mikus

11-23-2003, 01:12 PM

i found a new picture, seems like its from a away-game: http://www.gym-nippes.dnsalias.org/~druvins/images/643.jpg
does anyone recognize the opponent jersey?
thanks for help :)

RIO

11-23-2003, 01:56 PM

what a killer picture of Arch!! :D thanks so much for posting that, Mikus. :)

raleighcanesfan

11-23-2003, 03:08 PM

mikus

11-23-2003, 04:51 PM

Mikus--kinda reminds me of Wheeling's jersey. They're Pittsburgh's farm team, so I've gone to some Chiefs games against them. However they were always wearing the away jerseys (black)--but it reminds me of the color scheme. Maybe check Wheeling's homepage to see. I think the Chiefs played a series (home and home) against them lately.
yes, they had a away game against wheeling, but campbell was in goal...

the last away game with irbe in goal was against trenton, he had the shutout there http://www.johnstownchiefs.com/schedule/nov/index.htm

ok sounds possible, but the news article with that pic is from the 22th: http://www.hockey.lv/jaunumi/index.html?news_id=2510

misterious :D

thanks for help anyway :)

what a killer picture of Arch!! :D thanks so much for posting that, Mikus. :)
i'm always glad to make the people happy :D

guinevere

11-23-2003, 04:57 PM

Stat update -

Right now Archie has a 1.39 GAA, .95 Save percentage and 2 assists. :D Nice picture, Mikus.

MoBigRed

11-23-2003, 05:07 PM

Or has the ECHL, like the NHL, gone to wearing colors at home and white on the road?

mikus

11-23-2003, 05:11 PM

Or has the ECHL, like the NHL, gone to wearing colors at home and white on the road?
no definitely not, this pic here is from the last home game against wheeling: http://www.gym-nippes.dnsalias.org/~druvins/images/642.jpg

then I saw that picture with arch wearing the away jersey...that picture is from an article about that home game. that confused me..

I'm wondering from which game that pic is..

RIO

11-23-2003, 05:34 PM

Stat update -

Right now Archie has a 1.39 GAA, .95 Save percentage and 2 assists. :D Nice picture, Mikus.

That just thrills me to no end. http://jm.g.free.fr/smileys/bearhug.sml.gif

PennsylvaniaCanesFan

11-24-2003, 09:52 PM

Archie is tearing up the ECHL, no doubt about that. Gotta credit the Chiefs too, they are playing hotter then a house on fire, with or without him in goal.

I play on going to see them play Atlantic City on Saturday. Should be a great game, with Johnstown in 1st and AC in 2nd in thier division.

guinevere

11-24-2003, 10:12 PM

RIO

11-24-2003, 10:17 PM

when you come back, give us an update, PCF. we'd love that. :)

PennsylvaniaCanesFan

11-27-2003, 01:17 PM

Wednesday night poor Irbe got lit up for 6 goals. The story can be found here.

http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=10580045&BRD=2332&PAG=461&dept_id=484741&rfi=6

I think it was one of those days. Perhaps they were all thinking about turkey and gravy.

RIO

11-27-2003, 04:49 PM

well, DRAT. :eek2:

Kapanen024

11-28-2003, 10:23 PM

PCF and I went to the game. A horrible nite for Irbe and the Chiefs as they lost 3 - 1. The Chiefs showed absolutely no puck handling ability, very little offensive prowess, and their defense SUCKED. Irbe let 2 soft goals go in. AC scored their first goal on the PP. Irbe had no chance of stopping the shot. AC's 2nd goal appeared at first to be a dump in by AC toward the goalie that somehow Irbe let by. AC got their 3rd goal of the nite on the PP (I think?). Again, this was not a strong shot and should have been stopped. J-town got on the board after a scrum in front of the net and the puck went in. Let's hope they do better Saturday nite against the same Boardwalk Bullies.

Side note: I think Irbe needs to stay a little closer to the NET! Many times he came out to play the puck and turned it over in front of the net.

Kapanen024

11-29-2003, 09:40 PM

http://www.echl.com/cgi-bin/ppublic.cgi?action=summary&id=270
J-town Chiefs win tonite 4 - 1 against Atlantic City Boardwalk Bullies.

Irbe did NOT start tonite. But there's the link for the box score if anyone's interested. :beatup:

e2ipiand1

12-04-2003, 03:55 PM

Chiefs, Irbe To Appear On ESPN Next Week

For Immediate Release
December 4, 2003
For More Information Contact: Kevin McGeehan (814) 539-1799 x222

Johnstown, PA- Next Tuesday, the Johnstown Chiefs will be featured on the NHL's weekly television program "Cool Shots." Each week, "Cool Shots," is aired across the United States and Canada.

NHL Productions was in Johnstown November 13th and 14th doing a feature story for "Cool Shots," on Chiefs goaltender Arturs Irbe.

"Cool Shots," will air on ESPN on Tuesday, December 9th at 1:00 p.m. and on ESPN 2 on Sunday, December 14th at 12:00 a.m. All times are Eastern Standard Time. The show will also air in Canada on CBC and TSN.

COOL SHOTS TELEVISION SCHEDULE

ESPN: Tuesday, December 9th @ 1:00 PM Eastern Time
ESPN 2: Sunday, December 14th @ 2:30 AM Eastern Time
CBC: Sunday, December 14th @ 12:00 AM Local Time
TSN: Monday, December 15th @ 12:30 PM Local Time
Y.E.S.: TBD

-IT'S NOT JUST A RENOVATION, IT'S A REVOLUTION-

Kapanen024

12-04-2003, 04:13 PM

e2ipiand1... you beat me to it! I was just about to post that. Hehe. :D

*Kali*
:angel:

diamonddan

12-05-2003, 10:13 AM

OOPS! I just posted it on the Canes discussion board. Now I know why I picked this avatar.

Kapanen024

12-05-2003, 10:17 AM

OOPS! I just posted it on the Canes discussion board. Now I know why I picked this avatar.

D'oh! ;)

raleighcanesfan

12-05-2003, 06:14 PM

That is awesome!!! Anyone know if Cool Shots ever went to an ECHL town before? I am so stoked!

mikus

12-06-2003, 09:56 AM

do you think it will be later on nhl.com too?
there a weekly coolshots episode, is that the same as in tv?

raleighcanesfan

12-06-2003, 04:00 PM

I think the nhl.com version is just snippets Mikus...but I hope they do have it on--I know you're one of the true blue Irbe backers!!

PennsylvaniaCanesFan

12-08-2003, 02:23 PM

There are rumors floating around in the Chiefs orginazation that Irbe has a serious wrist injury. He is listed as day-to-day...but in the local paper, it said he was on the IR. I'll keep looking for more info about this.

Shell

12-08-2003, 02:52 PM

Ouch, didn't hear about it but just looked it up..

(from 2 different articles)

Veteran ex-NHL All-Star goaltender Arturs Irbe was placed on injured reserve by Johnstown on Saturday, with what is believed to be a broken right hand or wrist. He missed both games this weekend against Peoria, and likely won't play in two rematches next weekend at Carver Arena.

Johnstown goaltender Arturs Irbe was wearing a cast on his right hand and wrist, and did not play. Rivermen players say the veteran ex-NHLer has a wrist injury. The Chiefs say the goaltender will not play in the rematch tonight, and will undergo further tests on his hand. The goaltender believes he was hurt a week ago in a pre-game skate against Wheeling.

RIO

12-08-2003, 08:49 PM

Rats. :crazy:

PennsylvaniaCanesFan

12-09-2003, 11:46 AM

From the pages of the Tribune Democrat...

The official word is that Johnstown Chiefs goaltender Arturs Irbe is on the seven-day injured reserve list and will not travel to Cincinnati or Peoria this week.
Chiefs coach Toby O’Brien said that’s all the news the team can release on the condition of the former two-time NHL all-star until the Carolina Hurricanes are informed of the results of a MRI on Irbe’s right wrist.
The NHL general managers are holding a meeting in Florida, O’Brien said, which prevented the Chiefs from immediately contacting Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford.
“Until we can speak with Carolina, he’s been placed on the seven-day IR with a wrist injury,” O’Brien said yesterday at Cambria County War Memorial Arena. “Until we have the opportunity to fully discuss the situation with Carolina, we are unable to comment further on the extent of the injury other than to say it is not a major, season-ending type of injury.”
Irbe missed both home games against the Peoria Rivermen last weekend. He wore a brace on his right wrist.
The injury occurred during a pre-game skate or warm up around Thanksgiving, O’Brien said.
Irbe had a MRI last week and was informed of the results by a physician yesterday, O’Brien said.
“He met with one of our doctors to go over the MRI, but until we speak with Carolina and see how they want to handle this medically, I don’t want to go into the extent of it,” O’Brien said.
After Friday’s 3-2 overtime win over the Rivermen, Irbe said he couldn’t divulge the extent of the injury. “We have ideas, and we’re waiting for answers,” Irbe said. “It’s a little setback.”
Irbe is 8-3-1 with a 1.91 goals-against average and .933 save percentage for the first-place Chiefs, who enter the week with a 14-5-2 record and are a point in front of second-place Wheeling.
O’Brien didn’t set a time frame for Irbe’s recovery, but said two-to-four weeks might be a realistic possibility.
“Once we speak with Carolina, and talk to Arturs and his agent, then they’ll figure out what’s in his best interest and try to quickly move forward,” O’Brien said.
“We want to do what’s in his best interest, as we would with any of our players.”
With Irbe out, the workload during a pivotal five-game road trip will fall on rookies Cory Campbell (5-0-1, 1.30, .947) and David Currie (1-2-0, .3.33, .846).
“The last three games I’ve gone with Campbell and he’s 2-0-1,” O’Brien said. “David won his last game, 4-2. (Irbe) has eight of our wins and the kids have accounted for six of our wins. I think it will be exciting. I have 100 percent confidence in both of them.”
In another development, fifth-year defenseman Jeff Sullivan participated in yesterday’s practice but had some problems as a result of an injury that occurred on Friday night. Sullivan crashed head-first into the boards with six seconds left in the first period. He didn’t suffer a concussion after the scary incident, but said Saturday that he had a bruised lung.
“Sullivan was undergoing more tests,” O’Brien said. “He attempted to skate (yesterday) with some difficulty. As a result, he went for additional tests. We don’t have the results of those tests at this time. We had three healthy defensemen from the end of the first period Friday night until the end of the game Saturday night. We had two others dinged up as well but they still played.”
The Chiefs will visit the Cincinnati Cyclones tonight (7:05), then travel to Peoria for games on Friday (8:05) and Saturday (8:05). Johnstown plays at Dayton on Dec. 19 and 20.
“Hopefully all the medical reports give us good news and we’ll be ready to battle in Cincinnati,” O’Brien said.
“This is part of what happens during a long hockey season.”

Note: Irbe and the Chiefs will be featured today on Cool Shots, the NHL’s weekly TV program that will air at 1 p.m. on ESPN. The show will also air at 2:30 a.m. on Sunday on ESPN2.

raleighcanesfan

12-09-2003, 07:23 PM

The Irbe show was great!! You could tell he was in a hotel, as you see him sitting in a chair next to the ac unit. Wonder which one, J-town doesn't really have any nice ones (outside of the chains)...anywho

Highlights of the show:

*he wants to play in the NHL again

*bought the boys dinner at Outback--PCF--the one by the Galleria??

*went on a paintball shoot (didn't talk about this--just showed pics during the end credits)

*showed him talking to the players during games

*interviewed the typical yokel fan. Really, is this an unwritten rule--interview the most pathetic person you see? They do this all the time (here in raleigh too.)

goalie33

12-09-2003, 08:06 PM

I thought it was great when a guy shot into his glove during practice and he said "yes, right to the goalie, thank you." I miss Irbe. :cry:

tommy

12-13-2003, 09:25 AM

The COOLEST thing ever happened today!

My dad was going into work in his office at the hospital, and he saw Arturs Irbe sitting on one of the couches waiting to go into the doctor for some more check-up on his wrist! He said hello, and Arturs was actually very happy to hear from a Canes fan, and he asked my dad how the Canes looked recently, since he couldn't exactly follow them a whole lot. (Well, unfortunately my dad had to tell the truth. :beatup: ) But he said that Archie was really nice and he got an autograph on one of those sheets that doctors write out prescriptions on. He said that Irbe didn't mind at all. My dad told him to get better soon, and Irbe smiled and said thank you. It really makes me miss Archie!

RIO

12-13-2003, 03:08 PM

Oh Tommy... thanks *so* much for sharing that. I needed to hear something nice today. I miss him awfully. :sad:

e2ipiand1

12-18-2003, 04:51 PM

Three Chiefs Named to All-Star Team

For Immediate Release
December 18, 2003
For More Information Contact: Kevin McGeehan (814) 539-1799 x222

Johnstown, PA- The ECHL announced Thursday, the Eastern Conference starting lineup and roster for the 2004 Par-A-Dice ECHL All-Star game. For the first time in the All-Star game's twelve year history, the Chiefs will have three players on the team, as goaltenders Arturs Irbe and Cory Campbell along with forward Jason Notermann have been selected to the squad. Irbe was also selected as starting goaltender for the game; however he will not be able to participate due to injury.

Irbe, 36, has appeared in twelve games for the Chiefs this season going 8-3-1 with a 1.91 GAA and a 0.933 save percentage. Irbe was assigned to the Chiefs by the NHL's Carolina Hurricanes on October 16th. The two time NHL All-Star has seen action in 558 NHL regular season games between Carolina, San Jose, Dallas, and Vancouver. In 2002, he led the Hurricanes to the Stanley Cup finals where they fell in five games to the Detroit Red Wings.

Campbell, 22, leads all ECHL goaltenders with a 1.47 GAA. In eight games, he has a 6-1-1 record and two shutouts. He ranks second in the ECHL with a 0.943 save percentage. The native of Stratford, ONT was drafted by the Los Angeles Kings (3rd round; 92nd overall) in 1999.

Notermann, 25, leads the Chiefs in scoring with 10 goals and 21 points in 24 games. He is sixth among ECHL rookies in scoring. The 5'10, 185 LBS native of Rochester, MN spent the last four seasons at the University of North Dakota where he had 103 points in 164 career games with the Fighting Sioux.

Earlier this week, Chiefs Head Coach Toby O'Brien was named co-coach of the Eastern Conference team along with Peoria's Jason Christie.

The 2004 Par-A-Dice ECHL All-Star Game and Skills Competition will be held at the 9,919-seat Carver Arena at Peoria Civic Center in Peoria, Illinois. Hosted by the Peoria Rivermen and presented by the Par-A-Dice Hotel & Casino, the Skills Competition will be held at 7 p.m. on January 20 while the 12th Annual ECHL All-Star Game will be played at 7 p.m. on January 21.

corylav

02-03-2004, 11:42 AM

Has anyone seent his from the Johnstown Chiefs front page? Apparentyl they've embraced Archie

http://www.johnstownchiefs.com/images/graphics/homeindex.jpg

corylav

02-03-2004, 11:42 AM

Has anyone seent his from the Johnstown Chiefs front page? Apparentyl they've embraced Archie

http://www.johnstownchiefs.com/images/graphics/homeindex.jpg

Jeff O Rocks

02-03-2004, 01:06 PM

Good story tommy..thanks for sharing.. I saw him once before the season started at the RecZone.. he looked very sad.. :sad: I wish him well...wherever he may end up..

Jeff O Rocks

02-03-2004, 01:06 PM

Good story tommy..thanks for sharing.. I saw him once before the season started at the RecZone.. he looked very sad.. :sad: I wish him well...wherever he may end up..

AbNormal27

02-13-2004, 10:16 AM

Ex-Shark swimming in minor leagues
By Victor Chi, Mercury News

CLEVELAND - Just 20 months ago, Arturs Irbe went to the Stanley Cup finals with the Carolina Hurricanes. Six months ago, Irbe went to the Johnstown Chiefs by himself. But he does not feel shame.

"If you look, you can always find the sweet spot, even in a sour apple," Irbe said Thursday.

The goaltender-turned-San-Jose-folk-hero during the Sharks' first playoff run in 1994, Irbe immediately embraced the local culture of Johnstown, Pa., after the Hurricanes assigned him there in the fall.

"I have met the people who lived through the real `Slap Shot,' the real hockey they played before there was the movie," said Irbe, who played for San Jose from 1991 to '96.

"They say the way the Hanson brothers were portrayed in the movie might be the mild version of what was going on in real life."

In the 1977 movie that was filmed in Johnstown and starred Paul Newman, the Chiefs played in the Federal League. In reality, they play in the East Coast Hockey League, and Irbe, who turned 37 this month, is scheduled to play tonight for the first time since he underwent surgery nearly three months ago.

"I had ligaments and cartilage repaired in my wrist," he said. "I guess all those shots I was taking in the early days with San Jose finally caught up on me. Especially in the Cow Palace."

Salary is not minor

The Chiefs' game tonight is in Toledo, Ohio, against the Storm. So why was Irbe at Gund Arena on Thursday watching an American Hockey League game between Cleveland and San Antonio? The explanation is a classic you-know-you're-in-the minors-when answer.

"One of our goaltenders is backing up for San Antonio tonight," Irbe said. "We had to drop him off." Then they fired up the bus and continued to Toledo after the game.

But before anybody starts feeling sorry for Irbe having to beat the bushes after 12 seasons in the big leagues, remember that he is collecting a big-time NHL salary -- $2.7 million this season. (According to the Edmonton Journal, the rest of the Chiefs will earn a total of $245,000.)

Money, along with his severe drop in production last season, is why Irbe is no longer in Carolina. To have bought him out before this season, the Hurricanes would have had to pay him $3.467 million. They did not want to do that because they would not have to pay Irbe at all if there is a lockout next season.

Instead, they offered him a buyout of roughly $1.8 million. Irbe declined, knowing he could earn his entire salary wherever the Hurricanes shipped him, including Johnstown.

"I'm trying to look at it as business," Irbe said. "But the game itself, as long as it's fun, it's fine. I've bounced around to a lot of teams. I'm not emotional about it anymore."

A dip in performance

Irbe's preference is to bounce back to the NHL, but the odds are long considering his age, his recent operation and his poor play last season.

After reaching the Stanley Cup finals, the Hurricanes regressed in 2002-03; they crashed even harder than the Sharks. Irbe's numbers slipped, too. His goals-against average went from 2.54 to 3.18.

"I just want to get completely healthy and play and see what happens," Irbe said. "I'm just looking to get back on the ice and get in some games. Hopefully somebody is watching and likes what they see.

"There are so many things in your life that are out of your control. You can't worry. I have done my worrying. I don't have to do it anymore."

Irbe's NHL record is 213-234-78, with a 2.78 GAA, a .899 save percentage and 33 shutouts. He is the second-winningest European goalie, behind Dominik Hasek (296), whom he faced in the 2002 finals.

Irbe's family has remained in North Carolina this season because he did not want to disrupt his kids' lives. "There's no need to relocate and maybe have to move again in the middle of the season if something else happened," he said.

He also still owns a house in Los Altos, which might be his retirement home. He has been renting it out since he left the Sharks as a free agent.

But before he heads to Los Altos, or to Raleigh, N.C., he will step on the ice at the Toledo Sports Arena.

"That rink is crazy: smaller than Boston Garden or Chicago Stadium," Irbe said. "The outside hash marks are basically in front of the net. Strange. Strange rink."

Which is a fine way for Irbe, the man who coined the phrase "like wall" to describe his goaltending style, to capture the spirit of the thing.

Contact Victor Chi at vchi@mercurynews.com or (408) 920-5720.

Aaryn

mikus

02-13-2004, 11:23 AM

interesting story, thanks for sharing :)

RIO

02-13-2004, 02:13 PM

Thank you so much for posting that, Aaryn. I really like to stay caught-up with Arch. I'm so very glad he's doing well.

Kapanen024

02-13-2004, 09:13 PM

Irbe Activated From IR
Currie Returned From AHL Call-up

For Immediate Release
February 13, 2004
For More Information Contact: Kevin McGeehan (814) 539-1799 x222

Johnstown, PA- Johnstown Chiefs Head Coach and Director of Hockey
Operations Toby O’Brien announced today that goaltender Arturs Irbe has been
activated from the injured reserve list and is expected to start for
the Chiefs tonight when they visit the Toledo Storm at 7:30 p.m. O’Brien
also announced that goaltender David Currie has been returned to the
team from a one game call-up to the AHL’s San Antonio Rampage. Currie
dressed for the Rampage’s game last night at Cleveland, but did not play.

Irbe, 36, has appeared in 12 games for the Chiefs this season going
8-3-1 with a 1.91 GAA and a 0.933 save percentage. The former two-time NHL
all-star has been on the injured reserve list since December 4th.

Currie, 21, is 10-5-1 this season for the Chiefs with a 2.86 GAA and a
0.905 save percentage. The Peterborough, ONT native has been red hot
lately; going 8-0-1 in his last nine starts.

The Chiefs also placed goaltender Cory Campbell on the seven day
injured reserve list and activated forward Josh Piro from injured reserve.
Piro will be available for tonight’s game.

The Chiefs take to the road this weekend for a pair of games. Tonight
they are at Toledo (7:30 p.m.) and Saturday they visit the Reading
Royals (7:00 p.m.).

The Chiefs will host the Peoria Rivermen. Monday and Tuesday night at
the War Memorial. Face-off for both games is at 7:05 p.m. Saturday,
February 21st is NASCAR night when the Chiefs host the Trenton Titans. Dale
Earnhardt Jr.’s #8 Budweiser car will be displayed in the arena and the
first 1,500 people through the gate will receive a commemorative Bud
car poster from Von’s United Beverage. For tickets call 814-536-5156 or
1-800-CHF-TIXX.
-It's Not Just a Renovation, It's a Revolution-