Bossier Shreveport Mudbugs
 

Aikins, DeCaro Lift Mudbugs into Second Round

04/06/2011 10:45 PM -
PRESCOTT VALLEY, AZ – Justin Aikins scored his second goal of the night with 39 seconds left and John DeCaro made 48 saves as the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs defeated the Arizona Sundogs 2-1 in Game 4 of their Opening Round playoff series Wednesday night at the Tim’s Toyota Center. The win propels the Mudbugs into the Berry Conference Semifinals, during which they will face either Tulsa, Texas or Odessa in another best-of-five series.

DeCaro faced a barrage of Arizona shots throughout the night to keep the ‘Bugs in the game, which was tied at one for over 45 minutes of play. Aikins then scored the series-clinching goal on the powerplay with under a minute remaining to cap off a two-goal night and complete the four-game series victory for Bossier-Shreveport.

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Mudbugs to Face Tulsa in Second Round

04/10/2011 1:37 PM -
BOSSIER CITY, LA – The Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs of the Central Hockey League today announced the opponent and schedule for their upcoming Berry Conference Semifinal playoff series, which starts Friday night at the CenturyTel Center. The second-seeded Mudbugs will face the #3 Tulsa Oilers in the second round of the playoffs after the Oilers advanced past Mississippi.

The ‘Bugs defeated #7 Arizona in the Opening Round of the postseason, clinching the series against the Sundogs last Wednesday with a 2-1 road victory in Game 4. Tulsa, meanwhile, became just the second team in CHL history to win a best-of-five series by winning three straight games after trailing the series 0-2. The Oilers finished off the comeback with a 5-2 win over #6 Mississippi in Game 5 of their Opening Round series Saturday night in Tulsa.

Bossier-Shreveport and Tulsa faced one another just three times during the regular season, with the Mudbugs winning both of the first two games in October and November by a combined score of 12-6 to take the season series. The Oilers then won the final regular season meeting on January 15 to snap a 16-game losing streak against the ‘Bugs.

Bossier-Shreveport and Tulsa will begin the best-of-five series with Games 1 and 2 at 7:05 pm at the CenturyTel Center on Friday and Saturday. The series will then shift to the BOK Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma for Games 3 and 4 on Tuesday, April 19 and Friday, April 22 (if necessary) before returning to Bossier City for a potential Game 5 on Saturday, April 23.


mudbugshockey.com: Mudbugs Headlines

Maybe I can get to one of these games.

Mudbugs Drill Oilers in Game 2, Tie Series

04/16/2011 9:31 PM -
BOSSIER CITY, LA – The Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs scored three powerplay goals on their way to a dominating 6-1 victory over the Tulsa Oilers in a penalty-filled Game 2 of their Berry Conference Semifinal series Saturday at the CenturyTel Center. The series is now tied at one game apiece heading into Game 3 Tuesday at the BOK Center in Tulsa.

Simon Mangos assisted on four of Bossier-Shreveport’s first five goals in the contest and Travis Clayton tacked on three helpers of his own. Jeff Kyrzakos and Clay Plume both contributed “Gordie Howe hat tricks” to the victory with a goal, an assist and a fight each. The Mudbugs scored three powerplay goals on seven opportunities as Tulsa committed three five-minute major penalties and had three players ejected on their way to racking up 67 penalty minutes. The teams combined for over 105 total minutes in penalties between them.

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This was a hell of a game and probably the best Hockey game I've ever been to. We now go to Tulsa for game 3.

Go Bugs!

Bug win!!!! Bugs Win!!! Holy Cow! Bugs Win!!!!

Mudbugs advance to the conference championship game!!!!

04/23/2011 10:01 PM -
BOSSIER CITY, LA – Despite bringing a three-goal lead into the third period, the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs were forced to hold off a late rally to earn a series-clinching 5-4 victory over the Tulsa Oilers in the deciding Game 5 of the Berry Conference Semifinals Saturday night at the CenturyTel Center.*After winning the series three games to two, the Mudbugs will now advance to the Berry Conference Finals to face the top-seeded Allen Americans.
*
Steven Crampton set up three goals in the victory, while Andy Contois and Nick Layton each had a goal and an assist.*Justin Aikins also posted two helpers as the Mudbugs built a 4-1 lead through 40 minutes before the Oilers tallied three times in the third period and kept pushing until the final horn.
*
After Tulsa gained a 4-0 shot edge in the opening minutes, it was the ‘Bugs who would score first.*Justin Aikins and Steven Crampton worked hard in the corner to free the puck up before Crampton fed it to Nick Layton, who stuffed it through Ian Keserich’s five-hole in front at 11:39.*
*
The Oilers countered a few minutes later when Bates Battaglia picked up a Mudbugs turnover and sniped a perfect shot into the top corner to tie the game.*With less than two minutes remaining in the period, Andy Contois got a pass from Crampton in the neutral zone and sped right through the Tulsa defense to the front before chipping a shot into the top corner to give the ‘Bugs a 2-1 lead.
*
The home team extended the lead at 6:04 of the second when Crampton made a brilliant pass to spring Contois and Brett Smith on a 2-on-1 break.*Smith then deflected Contois’ pass into the net to make it 3-1.*David Rutherford extended the advantage to 4-1 late in the period with a powerplay goal, stepping in from the right boards and rifling a shot past Keserich’s stick side.
*
Tulsa roared back in the third period as Evan Kotsopoulos one-timed a Marty Standish pass into the net and then Michael Beausoleil backhanded a rebound past John DeCaro 57 seconds later to cut the lead to one.*Bossier-Shreveport went back up by a pair at 9:35 after goaltender Trevor Cann (who had replaced an injured Keserich) stopped Jim Jorgensen’s shot off a pass from Jeff Kyrzakos only to have Shawn Limpright knock in the rebound to put the lead at 5-3.
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Chad Costello scored a powerplay goal for Tulsa to make it 5-4 with less than five minutes remaining, but the Oilers could not find the equalizer as the ‘Bugs went on to win the game and clinch the series victory.
*
John DeCaro (5-1) finished with 21 saves as the Mudbugs ended with a 30-25 shot advantage.*Ian Keserich stopped 15 shots in the first two periods before Trevor Cann (4-3) was tagged with the loss after allowing one third period goal on 11 shots.*Both teams ended up 1 for 5 on the powerplay.
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The Mudbugs will now await a finalized schedule for their best-of-seven Berry Conference Final series against the Governors’ Cup Champion Allen Americans, who dispatched Rio Grande Valley and Odessa to reach the third round.
*
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*
Mudbugs Hold on to Take Game 1 in Allen

04/29/2011 9:44 PM -
ALLEN, TX – The Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs built a 4-1 lead through two periods and held off a late Allen Americans charge to take Game 1 of the Berry Conference Finals by a final score of 5-4 Friday night at the Allen Event Center.*The Mudbugs now hold a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series going into Game 2 Sunday in Allen.
*
Shawn Limpright scored Bossier-Shreveport’s last two goals of the game (including his second consecutive game-winner) and added an assist, while Justin Aikins had a goal and an assist.*Brett Smith also contributed a pair of helpers as the ‘Bugs scored twice on the powerplay and once shorthanded on their way to winning Game 1 for the second time in three tries this postseason.
*
Allen struck first as Dave Bonk tallied just over three minutes in to put the home team ahead 1-0.*The Mudbugs tied it with a powerplay goal midway through the period when Simon Mangos snuck a long shot through traffic and then Chris Whitley’s five-hole at 10:32.*Justin Aikins gave the ‘Bugs a 2-1 lead just over two minutes later when Brett Smith tapped a Kevin Young pass right to him before he cut across the crease and shelved a backhander for another powerplay goal.
*
Bossier-Shreveport extended the lead to 3-1 halfway through the second stanza as Dave Pszenyczny picked up a rebound along the boards and shot it into an open net past a prone Whitley for his first goal of the playoffs.*Then late in the period, Smith grabbed the puck just inside the Mudbugs blueline and made a long pass to Limpright, who skated into Allen ice and ripped a long shot through a screen past Whitley with just two seconds left in the period to make it 4-1 ‘Bugs after two.
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At 6:55 of the third, Judd Blackwater tapped in a nice feed from Colton Yellow Horn to get Allen back within two.*With Bossier-Shreveport shorthanded five minutes later, Michael Couch cleared the puck into the Allen zone, allowing Limpright to win a race, get around Dave Bonk and tuck it between Whitley’s pads to give the ‘Bugs a 5-2 edge.*Yellow Horn answered right back with a powerplay goal just over 30 seconds later to get the Americans back within 5-3.
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Aikins was whistled for a double-minor penalty for high-sticking with less than five minutes remaining, leading to Jarret Lukin’s powerplay goal that cut the Mudbug lead to one.*The ‘Bugs were able to kill off the second half of the penalty and finish off a 5-4 victory to take the 1-0 series lead.
*
John DeCaro (6-1) stopped 28 shots to tie Whitley for the CHL playoff lead with six wins as Bossier-Shreveport was outshot 32-26 in the contest.*Chris Whitley (6-3) finished with 21 saves in the loss for Allen.*The Mudbugs scored on two of four powerplay chances, while the Americans were 2 for 8.*
*
The Mudbugs will now look to take a 2-0 series lead when the series continues with Game 2 on Sunday at the Allen Event Center.*Opening faceoff is set for 6:00 pm, with radio coverage starting at 5:40 on AM 1130 KWKH.** The game will also be shown live online on CHL-TV.

mudbugshockey.com: Mudbugs Headlines

The Bugs are coming back to Century Tell for two games with a very surprising 2 games to 1 advantage over Allen!!

All of you North Louisiana and East Texas fans, Lets get out Friday night and support the Bugs. If you've never been to a hockey game, man are you in for a treat! I'm going at lunch today to get my tickets.

Late Goal Gives 'Bugs Game 3 Win, 2-1 Series Lead

05/04/2011 9:56 PM -
ALLEN, TX – Nick Layton and David Rutherford hooked up on the winning goal with just 1:11 remaining to give the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs a 3-2 victory over the Allen Americans in Game 3 of the Berry Conference Finals Wednesday at the Allen Event Center. After winning two of three games played in Allen to start the best-of-seven series, the Mudbugs will now bring a 2-1 series lead back to the CenturyTel Center for Game 4 Friday night at 7:05.

Overtime appeared imminent when the Americans tied the game with just over a minute remaining, but Rutherford’s play at center helped set up Layton’s game-winner just over one minute later. Rutherford finished with a goal and an assist in the contest, while Jamie Milam scored the ‘Bugs other goal.

Allen started the game with two straight powerplays and a 5-2 early shot advantage, but the ‘Bugs killed off both to keep the Americans off the board. Bossier-Shreveport then went on top 1-0 after a hard-working shift that concluded with David Rutherford sending a backhand wraparound shot into the top part of the net at 12:40. Each team sent six shots on goal in the first and the Mudbugs went to the locker room with a 1-0 lead.

The Americans skated to an 11-4 shot edge in the second frame and had two more powerplays, but couldn’t beat John DeCaro as the game stayed 1-0 going into the third.

The Mudbugs went on an extended powerplay when Kip Brennan was issued a five-minute major penalty for boarding Brett Smith early in the third, but it was Allen who would capitalize first on Tobias Whelan’s shorthanded goal at 4:09. Bossier-Shreveport got that goal back shortly after when Jamie Milam wristed a puck past Chris Whitely from the high slot for a powerplay goal.

It seemed the game was headed for extra time when Zion one-timed a point blast through traffic and into John DeCaro’s five-hole with only 2:16 remaining. But then with just over a minute left, Rutherford stole the puck from Scott Langdon at center ice and headed into Allen ice with Layton. Rutherford’s cross-ice pass was deflected on the way through, but Layton quickly picked it up and fired it past Whitley to put the ‘Bugs ahead to stay at 3-2.

John DeCaro (7-2) made 27 saves on the way to his seventh win of the playoffs as Bossier-Shreveport was outshot 29-18. Chris Whitley (7-4) stopped 15 shots in the loss for Allen. The Mudbugs’ penalty killing unit rebounded in a big way with a 4-for-4 effort, while the ‘Bugs scored once in three powerplay chances of their own.

With the ‘Bugs leading 2-1 after three games in Allen, the series now shifts to Bossier City for the next two contests. Games 4 and 5 are set for Friday at 7:05 pm and Sunday at 4:05 pm at the CenturyTel Center. Mudbugs group ticket packages can be purchased by phone at 318-752-BUGS or in person at the team office inside the CenturyTel Center.


mudbugshockey.com: Mudbugs Headlines

:crowd:

:cheering:

:party:

:fanclub:

Bugs Win!!!! Bugs Win!!!!!

Home at last, Mudbugs thump Allen
By Roy Lang III rflang@gannett.com
May 7, 2011

The Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs learned the importance of a little breathing room Friday night at the CenturyTel Center.

Now they have plenty of it.

The Mudbugs, a team that can't seem to avoid drama late in hockey games, raced to a five-goal third-period lead against the Allen Americans and held on for a 6-4 victory in Game 4 of the Berry Conference Final.

However, Friday's 50-minute effort of dominating hockey was good enough to put the Central Hockey League's top seed on the brink of elimination.

Jamie Milam scored twice and four of his teammates joined the light-the-lamp party as the Mudbugs own a 3-1 series advantage.

Bossier-Shreveport can close things out in Sunday's Game 5 (4:05 p.m.) -- the final game of the series to be played in Bossier City. The Mudbugs are looking to make the most of the pair of home games they were given for the best-of-7 series.

A boisterous crowd of 2,896 has plenty to cheer about as they reveled in Friday's one-sided affair.

"We felt (the crowd), absolutely," Milam said. "It felt like the first game of the year when we came out and went after Mississippi and beat them 10-1. We felt the energy.

"It's good to be home with what happened with the rink -- we tried to stay focused and not worry about it. Being home, we knew this was an important game. To have them behind us was a big help."

Third-period goals by David Rutherford, Steven Crampton and Jeff Kyrzakos gave Bossier-Shreveport a 6-1 lead and twice knocked out Americans netminders.

"They had some good hockey players tonight and I felt like we got outmatched man to man," Allen head coach Dwight Mullins said.

However, Allen struck with three goals. Nino Musitelli's goal with 5:44 left in the game started a string of three Americans goals in 3:39. Musitelli's second goal of the period cut the lead to 6-4 with 2:05 remaining.

Allen yanked goaltender Chris Whitley for the final 90 seconds, but was unable to cut the lead to one.

"We attacked our game over the first 50 minutes of the hockey game," Mudbugs head coach Scott Muscutt said. "We got away from that in the last 10 minutes. We got standing still and we can't do that kind of stuff.

"In the end, if we can find a way "¦"

And they did, again.

Sunday, the Mudbugs will have an opportunity to clinch a spot in the President's Cup Final for the first time since 2006.

"It's a lot easier to get going (at home)," Milam said. "You don't have the boos and the Josh Groban playing when you enter the ice. It's a fun game and we like to have fun. Winning is fun and the (crowd) helps out."

Allen will look to stage its second improbable series comeback. Odessa took the first two games in Allen during the best-of-5 conference semifinal, only to have the Americans win three straight - a pair at Odessa - and the series.

"(Friday) is one game," Mullins said. "The nice thing is we've been in this situation before. All we can do now is look toward Sunday."

Allen would need just one road victory this time. Games 6 and 7, if necessary, will take place in Allen on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The Mudbugs would like to avoid one final trip to the Metroplex again this season - unless it's to catch a plane to Colorado or South Dakota.

Colorado, a former conference foe, also holds a 3-1 lead in its series with Rapid City in the Turner Conference Final.

The Mudbugs played a finesse game in the first period while the Americans took the body. Amateur Nick Layton fired a shot off a post 1:30 into game for Bossier-Shreveport, but the Mudbugs wouldn't be held scoreless for long.

Milam beat Whitley high and to his blocker side with a 35-foot slap shot 4:40 into the period.

"We find that (Whitley) goes down early if he can't see," Milam said. "I honestly didn't aim; I was just trying not to get it blocked."

Allen didn't have many opportunities in the first period, but took advantage its last. Colton Yellow Horn entered the Mudbugs' zone unabated and scored during 4-on-4 action to tie the game.

Milam got to work early in the second period and gave his team its second lead of the game. This blast proved to even more impressive. Milam moved back to 60 feet and unloaded on a trickling puck for his second tally of the evening.

"Initially, you take a step back in your head, but once I saw how slow it was going, I figured I could beat it there," Milam said. "It worked out."

The goal was the defenseman's fourth of the postseason.

"He's a kid that's been finding ways to compete and contribute every night," Muscutt said. "You love to see guys like that get rewarded. When Jamie Milam is on his game, he electrifies our entire team."

Veteran Travis Clayton deflected a Michael Couch shot past Whitley to give the Mudbugs a 3-1 lead late in the period. Allen had an opportunity to garner momentum for the final 20 minutes, but failed during a power play over the final 2 minutes of the second period with Andy Contois in the penalty box for hooking.

Whitley kept his team in the game with a stop on Jeff Kyrzakos during a short-handed breakaway that set the stage for a wild third period.

shreveporttimes

Unfreaking believable ..... your team is the shiznit!

***Mudbugs win the Conference Championship and will be playing for the President's Cup!!!***

Mudbugs Win Berry Conference, Advance to Cup Finals
05/08/2011 7:23 PM

BOSSIER CITY, LA – The Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs clinched the Berry Conference title and a trip to the Ray Miron President’s Cup Finals with a 5-3 victory over the Allen Americans in Game 5 of the Berry Conference Finals Sunday at the CenturyTel Center.

By eliminating the Governors’ Cup Champion Americans four games to one, the ‘Bugs have clinched their sixth conference title and first trip to the CHL Finals since 2006. Bossier-Shreveport will now face either Rapid City or Colorado for the President’s Cup Championship.

David Rutherford scored two goals and assisted on Nick Layton’s game-winner to finish with three points in the win. Layton had a goal and an assist, while Michael Couch finished with two helpers as the Mudbugs repeatedly fought off Allen’s attempts at a comeback.

Jim Jorgensen started the scoring for the ‘Bugs, finishing off a 4-on-2 rush just over five minutes in. Rutherford followed later in the period with his first of the night, beating Chris Whitley with a quick snapshot from just over the blueline to make it 2-0 Mudbugs on the powerplay. Allen got back within one when David Nimmo deflected a point shot into the net for a powerplay goal with just 8.5 seconds left in the period to cut their deficit to one.

Rutherford’s second tally came on another rush as he and Justin Aikins criss-crossed into the Americans’ zone, leaving #91 free to fire a shot off Whitley’s glove and in to extend the lead back to 3-1 at the 6:41 mark. Whitley was then replaced in goal by Scott Campbell for the second straight game. Allen reduced the lead to one again right off a draw late in the period when Jarret Lukin one-timed a Nino Musitelli feed past John DeCaro to put the score at 3-2 after two periods.

Not many chances came for either club in the third as the ‘Bugs committed to a strong defensive game. Allen was pushing with just over two minutes left when David Rutherford won a race to a loose puck in the Americans’ zone and chipped it across to Nick Layton, who beat Campbell low to the stick side to give Bossier-Shreveport a 4-2 lead.

They would need the breathing room, because Tobias Whelan scored less than one minute later to draw Allen back within a goal. Then with just 21 seconds remaining, the ‘Bugs won a draw in their own zone and Michael Couch sent the puck to neutral, where Travis Clayton caught up to it and shot it into the empty net to seal the 5-3 victory and punch the Mudbugs’ ticket to the President’s Cup Finals.

John DeCaro (9-2) stopped 23 shots on the way to his league-leading ninth playoff win as Bossier-Shreveport was outshot 26-24 by Allen. Scott Campbell (0-2) was credited with his second straight loss despite giving up just one goal on 13 shots, while Chris Whitley made seven saves but surrendered three goals in the first 26:41. The ‘Bugs finished 1 for 3 on the powerplay, while the Americans were 1-5.

The Mudbugs will now await an opponent in the finals as they look to hoist the President’s Cup for the fourth time and first since 2001. The ‘Bugs will face either the defending Champion Rapid City Rush or the two-time cup winning Colorado Eagles out of the Turner Conference. The Eagles currently lead the Rush 3-2 in the Turner Conference Finals with Game 6 coming up on Monday from Colorado.

For scheduling and ticket information about the 2011 President’s Cup Finals as well as all the latest team news, log on to mudbugshockey.com: Home or call the team office at 752-BUGS.

Mudbugs Announce President’s Cup Final Home Dates

http://mudbugshockey.com.ismmedia.co...0514e3.200.jpg

05/11/2011 1:18 PM -
BOSSIER CITY, LA – Although they will not know their opponent in the 2011 CHL Ray Miron President’s Cup Finals until later tonight, the Berry Conference Champion Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs today announced their three home dates at the CenturyTel Center for the best-of-seven series.

No matter who advances in tonight’s Game 7 of the Turner Conference Finals, the top-seeded Rapid City Rush or the #2 Colorado Eagles, the Mudbugs will be the lower seed in the CHL’s Championship series. That means the ‘Bugs will open the series on the road with Games 1 and 2 this Friday and Saturday before returning to Bossier City to host three games next week.

Game 3 of the President’s Cup Finals is set for Tuesday, May 17 at the CenturyTel Center, with Game 4 to follow on Thursday, May 19. If necessary, Game 5 will be played the next day on Friday, May 20. Opening faceoff will be 7:05 pm for all three Mudbugs home games in the Finals.

As the series follows a 2-3-2 format, Bossier-Shreveport would then travel back to Colorado or Rapid City for potential Games 6 and 7 on the road.

Below is the schedule so far for the best-of-seven President’s Cup Finals:

Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs vs. Turner Conference Champions
Game 1 – Fri., May. 13 – Bossier-Shreveport at TCC
Game 2 – Sat., May. 14 – Bossier-Shreveport at TCC
Game 3 – Tue., May 17 – TCC at Bossier-Shreveport, 7:05 pm
Game 4 – Thu., May 19 – TCC at Bossier-Shreveport, 7:05 pm
*Game 5 – Fri., May 20 – TCC at Bossier-Shreveport, 7:05 pm
*Game 6 – TBD – Bossier-Shreveport at TCC
*Game 7 – TBD – Bossier-Shreveport at TCC
(all times Central Standard Time)

* if necessary

Single game tickets for Games 3 and 4 at the CenturyTel Center are on sale now at the CenturyTel Center box office, through Ticketmaster at 318-741-9700 or online at Tickets for Concerts, Sports, Arts, Theater, Family, Events, more. Official Ticketmaster site. Mudbugs playoff package ticket holders are reminded to use their tickets for playoff games “K”, “L” and “M” for the three home games during the President’s Cup Finals.

Mudbugs season ticket holders who elected not to purchase the full playoff package will have until 5:00 pm Monday to purchase their specific seats for the President’s Cup Finals, after which time all seats will be made available for sale to the general public.

For all the latest team news and information, visit mudbugshockey.com: Home.

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Did somebody say Mud Dawgs?

http://ol53.files.wordpress.com/2010/10/waterboy_23.jpg


Oh...Mudbugs...sorry

After losing the first game in overtime Friday night in Colorado...

All Even: Bugs Top Eagles in Game 2

05/14/2011 10:36 PM

LOVELAND, CO – Five different players scored goals for the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs in a 5-3 victory over the Colorado Eagles in Game 2 of the Ray Miron President’s Cup Finals Saturday night at the Budweiser Events Center.*The Mudbugs have now tied the best-of-seven series at one game apiece as the teams travel to Bossier City for the next three games, starting with Game 3 Tuesday night at the CenturyTel Center.
*
The forward line of Brett Smith, Steven Crampton and Andy Contois accounted for three of Bossier-Shreveport’s five goals in the contest, led by three assists for Contois.*Smith, Crampton and Simon Mangos each finished with a goal and an assist as well.*John DeCaro put on a solid performance with 33 saves as the ‘Bugs were outshot 36-19, and Jeff Kryzakos tied the Mudbugs’ single-season playoff record with his tenth goal of the postseason.
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It didn’t take long for the action to start in Game 2 as Brett Smith skated into the Colorado zone and beat Kyle Jones with a top-shelf slapshot from the left circle to put the ‘Bugs on top only 30 seconds in.*The Eagles answered exactly three minutes later however, as Adam Chorneyko knocked a centering feed past John DeCaro to tie the game at one.*
*
Colorado built a heavy shot advantage as the period continued, but DeCaro looked poised with 13 saves in the first 20 minutes.*The ‘Bugs missed on 1:26 of 5-on-3 powerplay time late in the period as the score stayed tied at one.
*
The Mudbugs re-took the lead midway through the second on a great offensive shift as Steven Crampton fed the puck into the high slot for Mangos, who put a wrister just inside the far post to make it 2-1 for the visitors.*Riley Nelson tied the score again for the Eagles three minutes later, backhanding a loose puck past DeCaro at 13:58.*Then with just over three minutes remaining in the second, Justin Aikins and David Rutherford sprung through the neutral zone on a 2-on-1 break.*Aikins faked the pass before sneaking a perfect shot past Jones to put Bossier-Shreveport back on top at 3-2 after two.
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The lead became 4-2 six minutes into the third when Shawn Limpright and Travis Clayton teamed up to find Jeff Kyrzakos, who sent a shot through traffic and past Jones from the top of the circle.*The Mudbugs kept coming on a beautiful passing play as Brett Smith sent a cross-ice pass to Andy Contois, who then centered the puck to Steven Crampton for a tap-in goal and a three-goal Bossier-Shreveport lead.
*
Colorado made it 5-3 on Chorneyko’s second goal of the night at 14:05, but the Eagles were not able to score again despite a late powerplay chance and a 6-on-4 opportunity with the net empty in the final minute.*Bossier-Shreveport held the Eagles without a powerplay goal yet in the series with three successful penalty kills, but also finished 0 for 5 on its own powerplay.
*
John DeCaro (10-3) earned his league-leading 10th victory of the playoffs with 33 stops, his second-highest save total of the postseason.*Kyle Jones (4-4) dropped back to .500 after making 14 saves in the game.
*
With the President’s Cup Finals now tied at one game apiece, the series will shift to the CenturyTel Center for the next three games, starting with Game 3 on Tuesday night.*Game 4 will then be on Thursday, with Game 5 following on Friday.
*
Opening faceoff for all three games is set for 7:05 pm at the CenturyTel Center.*Mudbugs group ticket packages can be purchased by phone at 318-752-BUGS or in person at the team office inside the CenturyTel Center.*

mudbugshockey.com: Mudbugs Headlines

Mudbugs play tonight at home in the Century Tell Center. I've got my tickets and I'm pumped! I'll keep you posted on the outcome. All you local people, come out tonight and support the home team. It's gonna be FUN!

Go Bugs!!

Well, this bites...
That's ok, we'll take them Thursday night to tie the series at two.

Colorado Rallies to Snatch Game 3, 2-1 Series Lead

05/17/2011 9:38 PM -
BOSSIER CITY, LA – The Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs led 2-0 after two periods but couldn’t hold on in 4-2 loss to the Colorado Eagles in Game 3 of the Ray Miron Presidents’ Cup Finals Tuesday night at the CenturyTel Center. Colorado now leads the CHL’s Championship series 2-1 with Game 4 coming up Thursday night at the CenturyTel Center.

Justin Aikins and Nick Layton scored goals in the first two periods as Bossier-Shreveport entered the third with a 2-0 advantage, a scenario in which the team was 9-0 in the playoffs. The Eagles rattled off three unanswered goals however, including two from Kevin Ulanski, before a late empty-netter sealed the win. John DeCaro made 27 saves and had a shutout going for nearly 48 minutes before the late Colorado charge.

DeCaro was the story of the first period, making 14 saves as the Eagles came in waves to start to the contest. Colorado had the first eight shots of the game, including an impressive point-blank chance for Scott May that DeCaro stopped with his glove.

The ‘Bugs then broke through with powerplay goal on their first shot of the game when David Rutherford skated down the right wing and fed a cross-ice pass to Justin Aikins, who cut across the crease and deposited a backhander behind Andrew Penner at 11:35. Despite being outshot 14-4, Bossier-Shreveport led 1-0 after one.

Bossier-Shreveport tightened up in the second period, allowing only six shots to the Eagles while getting eight of their own. Both teams failed to convert on one powerplay apiece before the ‘Bugs extended their lead late in the period. Shawn Limpright helped create a neutral zone turnover to spring a 2-on-1 break with Rutherford and Layton, who raced in from the blueline before beating Penner with a quick wrister inside the far post at 17:49 of the second.

After a few key saves from Penner, Colorado roared back starting with Jason Beatty’s booming slapshot that got the visitors on the board eight minutes into the third. Ulanski’s first goal then came on a powerplay rebound three minutes later to knot the score at two. After the ‘Bugs missed on another powerplay chance and with just 2:35 left in regulation, Ulanski buried a Riley Nelson feed during a 2-on-1 break to put the Eagles ahead to stay. Dan Sullivan’s empty-netter sewed up the 4-2 Colorado win with 34 seconds left.

John DeCaro (10-4) lost for just the fourth time in the postseason despite a number of quality saves as the ‘Bugs were outshot 31-19. Andrew Penner (8-2) stopped 17 shots in the win. Bossier-Shreveport finished 1 for 5 on the powerplay, while Colorado was 1 for 4.

The Mudbugs will now be looking to even the best-of-seven series at two games apiece when they host Game 4 on Thursday at the CenturyTel Center, with Game 5 following on Friday.

mudbugshockey.com: Mudbugs Headlines

C'mon now ... lay off the sauce and win this next game!

Wooo Hooooooo!!!! The series is is tied back up at two games apiece. We can still win this, but we will have to do it in Colorado. The last home game is tonight. All of you NW Louisiana people need to come out and support the home team.

Kyrzakos Nets OT Winner as Bugs Tie Series

05/19/2011 10:13 PM

BOSSIER CITY, LA – Jeff Kyrzakos one-timed a Nick Layton pass into the net at 4:31 of overtime to lift the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs to a 5-4 victory over the Colorado Eagles in Game 4 of the Ray Miron Presidents’ Cup Finals Thursday at the CenturyTel Center.*The goal tied the CHL’s Championship series at two games apiece for the Mudbugs with Game 5 set for Friday night at the CenturyTel Center.
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Shawn Limpright scored two goals in the game, including the one that tied it in the third period, while Simon Mangos and Nathan Moon also found the back of the net for Bossier-Shreveport.*The goal by Kryzakos capped a comeback similar to the one the Mudbugs fell victim to just two days ago in Game 3 and made him the franchise record holder for goals in a single playoff season with 11.*Ryan Munce relieved John DeCaro halfway through the contest after Colorado made it 4-2, stopping all 13 shots he saw to earn the win in goal.
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Much like Game 3, Colorado got off to a quick start in the contest with an early 7-1 shot advantage.*This time the Eagles got the first goal when Adam Hogg’s sharp-angle shot went wide but bounced off the boards to the far side of John DeCaro, where Steve Haddon quickly tapped it into an open net just over one minute in.
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The ‘Bugs gained momentum as the period progressed, tying it up at 9:58 when Nathan Moon picked up a loose puck in the high slot and fired it through traffic past Andrew Penner’s right pad.*Just 15 seconds later off the ensuing faceoff, Travis Clayton forced the puck out front past a prone Penner, where Shawn Limpright jammed it in to put Bossier-Shreveport on top 2-1 after 20 minutes.
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Colorado scored three goals on its first four shots of the second period to take the lead, starting with Adam Hogg’s five-hole shot from the low circle that tied it at two.*Scott May then scored an impressive shorthanded goal two minutes later, batting Adam Chorneyko’s pass out of mid-air and into the net to put the Eagles on top.*Chorneyko added another assist on Kevin Ulanski’s goal three minutes after that to make it 4-2 Colorado.
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DeCaro was then relieved in goal by Ryan Munce, who made a huge save late in the period on a chance from in tight, but not before the ‘Bugs had drawn back within one.*On that tally Andy Contois broke down the left boards and centered a feed across to Simon Mangos, who re-directed it into the net at 15:18 to give the Mudbugs life going into the third down just one.
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Michael Couch then helped set up the game-tying goal in the third frame, rushing into the offensive zone and wristing a shot that was blocked near the top of the circles. The puck then bounced directly onto the stick of Limpright, who wasted no time in wiring the rebound chance into the net to tie the game at 7:47.*Munce stopped nine shots in the third and Colorado hit three posts to preserve the tie into overtime.
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After an unsuccessful Mudbugs powerplay early in the extra session, Jamie Milam sent the puck deep into the Eagles zone for Nick Layton, who was alone in the corner.*Layton’s perfect pass into the low slot was then one-timed into the net*by Kyrzakos, who broke John Vecchiarelli’s 12-year-old franchise record with his 11th goal of the playoffs.
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John DeCaro stopped 11 shots in the first 30 minutes of the contest, while Ryan Munce (2-2) finished with 13 saves and the win.*Andrew Penner (8-3) suffered the loss after a 21-save effort as Colorado outshot Bossier-Shreveport 28-26.*The ‘Bugs were 0 for 6 on the powerplay, but held the Eagles scoreless on four powerplays as well.
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With the best-of-seven series now even at two games apiece, the teams will now turn their attention to Friday’s Game 5 at the CenturyTel Center.*The winner of that game will hold a 3-2 series lead and have a chance to clinch the championship when the series returns to Colorado for Game 6 next Wednesday.

mudbugshockey.com: Mudbugs Headlines

Time to go to Colorado!

Not yet. We have a home game tonight, then it off to Colorado to wrap up the championship. I will be at the game tonight, but unfotunately will have to listen to the Colorado game(s) on the radio.

Mudbugs Soar Over Eagles in Game 5, Take Series Lead

BOSSIER CITY, LA – David Rutherford scored a hat trick and linemates Nick Layton and Justin Aikins accounted for three more goals as the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs blitzed the Colorado Eagles 7-2 in Game 5 of the Ray Miron Presidents’ Cup Finals Friday night at the CenturyTel Center.*The Mudbugs now lead the best-of-seven series 3-2 and will have a chance to clinch the CHL Championship when the series shifts back to Colorado for Game 6 on Wednesday.
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Rutherford became the first Mudbug to score a playoff hat trick since Chris Brassard in 2005 and added in assist to lead the way with four points for Bossier-Shreveport.*Layton scored twice and had an assist, while Justin Aikins rounded out the line with a goal and two helpers.*At the other end of the ice, Ryan Munce finished with 32 saves to earn the win in his first start since April 15.
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The Mudbugs started quickly in the game, jumping ahead 1-0 on their first powerplay chance of the night when David Rutherford stickhandled through traffic just inside the Colorado blueline before skating free into the right circle and beating Kyle Jones top-shelf at 7:23.*Four minutes later, another Bossier-Shreveport powerplay produced the same result when Travis Clayton and Justin Aikins combined to get a pass into the low circle to Rutherford, who slid a backhander into the net to give the ‘Bugs a 2-0 advantage through one period.
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Layton banged home a centering pass from Rutherford at the top of the crease early in the second to make it 3-0 for the Mudbugs.*Jim Jorgensen got into the act at 11:37, picking up a puck that bounced off Brett Smith in the high slot and beating Kyle Jones to put the lead at 4-0.*Jones was then replaced in goal by Andrew Penner for Colorado.*Layton’s second goal was set up when the Eagles coughed up the puck in their own zone, allowing the amateur forward to skate in unopposed and beat Penner stick-side to give the ‘Bugs a 5-0 lead through 40 minutes.
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Dan Sullivan tapped in Scott May’s perfect cross-ice pass at 4:18 of the third to get Colorado on the board, but Rutherford answered with the hat trick goal three minutes later.*Rutherford broke in down the left boards and used defenseman Aaron Schneekloth as a screen before firing a laser over Penner’s glove to put the lead back to five.*Aikins beat Penner over the right shoulder to make it 7-1 later in the period before A.J. Hau tacked on a late goal to provide the final 7-2 margin in the Mudbugs’ last home game of the season.
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Ryan Munce (3-2) earned his second win in as many nights by making 13 saves in both the first and third periods on his way to 32 stops in total.*Kyle Jones (4-5) took the loss after making 19 saves on 23 shots in the first 31-plus minutes, while Penner turned aside ten shots and gave up three goals in relief.*Bossier-Shreveport outshot Colorado 36-34 and scored on 2 of 7 powerplays, while the Eagles went 0 for 3 on the man-advantage.
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With the ‘Bugs now leading the best-of-seven series 3-2, the teams will have four days to pause as the series shifts to the Budweiser Events Center in Loveland, Colorado.*The Mudbugs will then have a chance to clinch the President’s Cup Championship Wednesday in Game 6, which is set for 8:05 pm Central time.

mudbugshockey.com: Mudbugs Headlines

I guess we'll try one more time Friday night.

Bugs Falter in Colorado as Eagles Force Game 7

05/25/2011 11:00 PM -
LOVELAND, CO – Game 6 of the CHL Ray Miron Presidents’ Cup Finals got off to a rocky start and didn’t improve much for the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs in an 8-1 loss to the Colorado Eagles Wednesday night at the Budweiser Events Center. With the win, Colorado has evened the best-of-seven series at three games apiece and forced a decisive Game 7 in which a CHL Champion will be determined Friday night in Colorado.

Steven Crampton notched the only goal for the Mudbugs, who also had a Jamie Milam tally disallowed after it was ruled that the puck was kicked into the net. The ‘Bugs went 0 for 5 on the powerplay and used both goaltenders as they surrendered eight goals in the playoffs for the first time ever on the way to the most lopsided defeat in franchise history.

Colorado jumped on the Mudbugs early in Game 6, starting with Scott May’s powerplay goal from the right circle less than three minutes in. Aaron Schneekloth followed later in the period, cutting into the slot and beating Ryan Munce over his right shoulder. Kevin Ulanski’s shorthanded goal just over two minutes later signaled the end of the night for Munce, who was replaced by John DeCaro as Bossier-Shreveport trailed 3-0 after one.

Adam Chorneyko scored another powerplay goal early in the second frame that was followed by Daymen Rycroft’s tip-in of a Jason Beatty shot from the point to make it 5-0. The game then turned ugly as the teams combined for 45 total penalty minutes in the second period alone. After the officials ruled that Milam illegally deflected a Shawn Limpright pass into the net with his skate, Steven Crampton got the Mudbugs on the board with a rebound goal off a backhand shot from Brett Smith at 12:32 of the period.

With the game firmly in hand, Colorado extended the lead in the third with goals from Chorneyko and May before Chorneyko completed the hat trick with just 1:30 left in the game.

Ryan Munce (3-3) took the loss after giving up three goals on seven shots in the first 17 minutes, while John DeCaro made 11 saves and surrendered five goals in the last 43 minutes of play. Kyle Jones (5-5) stopped 24 shots as Bossier-Shreveport actually outshot Colorado 25-23 in the contest. The Eagles scored two powerplay goals on four chances while holding the ‘Bugs scoreless on five opportunities.

With the Presidents’ Cup Finals now tied at three games apiece, the 2011 CHL Champion will be determined by one final game at the Budweiser Events Center. Game 7 of the series is set for 8:05 pm Central time on Friday night, with radio coverage beginning at 7:45 pm on AM 1130 KWKH.

The game will also be shown live on CHL-TV, and don’t forget you can join your fellow ‘Bugs fans in watching Friday’s Game 7 at Archie Hebert’s Sports Bar & Grill (located at the Villagio in Bossier City), for the official Mudbugs playoff watch party.


mudbugshockey.com: Mudbugs Headlines

C'mon cher .... close the deal!

Pop The Champagne! Mudbugs Win 2011 CHL Championship

05/28/2011 12:19 AM


LOVELAND, CO – The Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs won their fourth President’s Cup Championship and first since 2001 Friday night at the Budweiser Events Center, defeating the Colorado Eagles 2-1 in Game 7 of the CHL Ray Miron Presidents’ Cup Finals.*After the first Central Hockey League Championship in the franchise’s history, the 2011 Mudbugs become just the second road team in CHL history to win a Game 7 in the Finals.*This year’s title will join the Mudbugs’ three WPHL Championships from 1999, 2000, and 2001 as the fourth title in team history.
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Jeff Kyrzakos was named the Most Valuable Player of the 2011 CHL Playoffs after scoring the game-winning goal in Game 7 to finish the postseason with a franchise-record 12 goals and 19 points.*The Mudbugs scored first in the game and never looked back, shutting Colorado out for nearly 59 minutes in the hard-fought 2-1 victory.*John DeCaro finished with 26 saves on 27 shots, while Steven Crampton notched Bossier-Shreveport’s other goal in the win.
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The ‘Bugs jumped out to an early lead in Game 7 when Brett Smith and Andy Contois converged on a puck deep in the Colorado zone.*Smith bumped an Eagle off the puck and fed it to the top of the circle for Steven Crampton, who one-timed it past Kyle Jones stick-side at 2:58 to put Bossier-Shreveport on top.*
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Another goal followed less than five minutes later as a great breakout led to Travis Clayton’s drop pass to Jim Jorgensen.*Jones stopped the initial shot through traffic, but Jeff Kyrzakos was there to slam the rebound through his five-hole to make it a 2-0 Mudbugs.*John DeCaro made a key right-pad save on a breakaway chance for Dan Sullivan later in the period and the ‘Bugs led 2-0 after one.
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Colorado had a pair of powerplay chances in the second frame and outshot the Mudbugs 8-4, but couldn’t manage to beat John DeCaro as the game settled in.*The ‘Bugs held many of Colorado’s chances to the perimeter and held the high-powered Eagles off the board until well into the third period.
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Finishing with a 14-3 shot advantage in the third period, the Eagles finally broke through with 1:04 remaining when Adam Chorneyko fired a perfect shot over DeCaro’s glove hand to make it 2-1.*Colorado would not threaten again in the final minute however, as Bossier-Shreveport held on to win the game 2-1.
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John DeCaro (11-4) tied a CHL record with his 11th postseason after the 26-save effort.*Kyle Jones (5-6) took the loss after stopping 18 shots as Colorado outshot Bossier-Shreveport 27-20.*The Mudbugs were a perfect 4 for 4 on the penalty kill in the win while going 0 for 4 on their own powerplay.
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The 2011 CHL Champion Mudbugs will now return to Bossier City with the Presidents’ Cup firmly within their grasp for a Championship celebration with their fans.*The Mudbugs’ Championship celebration is set for Sunday afternoon from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at the CenturyTel Center.*Visit mudbugshockey.com: Home for additional details to be released soon, but plan on being at CTC on Sunday to salute your Presidents’ Cup Champion Mudbugs as they return home with the Cup!

I'm so excited I could pee.

http://www.webanswers.com/post-image...B173C4AD62.jpg

http://www.caelestisragdolls.com/jamescongress5f.jpg

Congrats.... how was the road trip?

Ok, here it is, the 2011 Central Hockey League Ray Miron Presidents’ Cup! It's been a long hard season, but worth it. Thanks you guys for not ragging me for putting my Mudbugs stuff up here. It's been fun.

Now that the season is over, I have to find myself another avatar.

yea, Mudbugs! Thats fun stuff, Hulka. Hockey is an awesome game, and I'd go every game, if I could.

Here in Houston the Calder Cup Series is tied 1-1 / Aeros vs. Binghamton, NY. Game 3, 4, 5 will be there, then the Series comes back to Houston, if still on.

Really the support from Houston fans is pathetic, but not surprising. Houston is quickly becoming a SOCCER city. Yes, it is that bad.

Thanks Mike! We've had a good time this year and especially during the playoffs. I may even have my wife talked into season tickets for me and my little girl. We'll see. LOL
Good luck with the Aeros. You need to go to every game you can. Take someone who's never been to a hockey game before. Make sure you say something on the radio every chance you get. People need to get out and support the local teams. The Mudbugs is a quality team in a quality league, but the support at the games could be a lot better. We may not even have the Mudbugs next year. I think it's just because they are hardly ever mentioned on air, tv or radio. People hardly ever hear about them. They need someone to talk about them, get excited about them, and make other people want to go. That's what I do every time I tell someone about the Mudbugs game. People just need to go. They won't be sorry.

I pretty much mention the Aeros now every newscast, plus I talk them up on the station's facebook. Those boys deserve support and love. They play their hearts out. I think theyre finally getting some crowds, but in a city of 4 million, I just have to say Houston is a pathetic sports city. 40 times the size of New Orleans, and yet when the Texans play, you barely know there's an NFL event going on. I can understand nobody going to see the Astros, or at least I could, when they had a lame duck owner-- but then look at the Cubs fans support in Wrigley, and what have the Cubs ever done?

The only thing here getting rabid support is soccer, if that tells you the state of Houston.

ANYWAY, GO AEROS!!!!

Hulka I just stop bye to get all caught up !!!!

Thanks Q.
Hope you had a great vacation. Hope the feet are ok. LOL
Oh yeah, How 'bout them Mudbugs!

Well the Houston Aeros made it to the Calder Cup Finals but lost to Binghamton NY Senators. They graciously thanked the fans on the website. It was a great year for the Aeros.

Hey Houston, how bout next year you actually support them. Its pathetic that the record attendance is around 10,000 in a city of 4 million people. Meanwhile hockey teams in cities like Binghamton, Peoria, and Rockford sell their arenas out.

Congratulations to the Aeros for making it to the finals. Too bad they couldn't win the cup. It will give them more motivation for next year.

I know what you mean about the attendance. The Mudbugs have put out a statement this week that if they don’t sell 1700 season tickets by the end of the week, they cannot keep the team viable. Which means we could lose them for good. They have sold 900 so far. It’s hard to get 2000 people to a game here. I blame a lot of it on promotion. We rarely see any kind of promotion for them on TV or the radio. It’s a damn shame too. Bossier Shreveport Mudbugs is one of the best things we have to offer for entertainment here in NW Louisiana. We lost the Shreveport Captains, our Double A baseball team, several years ago. We lost the Bossier Shreveport Battlewings, our arena football team, last year to New Orleans. We've lost the Shreveport Steamers. We've lost the Shreveport Pirates. We lose everything good we have to offer the public for quality family entertainment. Let's don't lose the Mudbugs. So everybody in NW Louisiana, come on out and suppoert the Bugs. I would hate to see another quality sports team leave the area. I’ll let you know how it turns out Mike.

From the Shreveport Times:

Mudbugs Crucial Ticket Sales Efforts Continue

06/06/2011 4:02 PM -
BOSSIER CITY, LA – The 2011 Central Hockey League Champion Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs are asking for your support in the most important season ticket drive in the history of the franchise. In order to make a 15th season of hockey in Bossier-Shreveport a realistic possibility, the Mudbugs must make significant progress toward reaching our sales goals by the end of this week.

“As much as we hate to take away from the Championship celebration amongst our fans, we can’t afford to hide the reality of the situation right now,” said Owner Tommy Scott. “The league wants our commitment to play next year by the end of this week, and we are not in a position to make that kind of a pledge without being assured of the financial future of this franchise.”

“We are exploring all possible avenues to help generate revenue and streamline our operations, but the key to our continued operations lies in our ticket sales efforts. Unfortunately the timetable is against us right now, which is why we hope the community will recognize the sense of urgency we face and rally around the only sports franchise to operate continuously in this city for the last 14 years.”

To that end, the Mudbugs have set a goal of 2,500 season tickets for the 2011-2012 season. The extremely loyal and passionate base of ‘Bugs fans has already responded with a resounding number of approximately 900 season tickets sold for next season, which nearly matches the club’s season ticket number from a year ago.

If the Mudbugs can increase that total to approximately 1,750 season ticket commitments for next season by week’s end, the likelihood of the ‘Bugs having an opportunity to defend their 2011 Central Hockey League Championship next year would be greatly increased.

“Mudbugs hockey brought me to Bossier-Shreveport more than a decade ago, and since then it has become home for me and my family,” said longtime player and current Mudbugs General Manager Jason “Soupy” Campbell. “Now we are on the verge of losing a valuable source of entertainment, community service and economic development here in the Ark-La-Tex. That’s why we’re trying to inspire people who are invested in this community to step up and help us keep it here for years to come.”

“This is about much more than just hockey,” said Scott. “It’s about the overall positive impact this organization has on our community: from visits to kids at schools and hospitals to the jobs and revenue that is created for the CenturyTel Center and the City of Bossier. I’m willing to bet that the Mudbugs have touched almost everyone in this area in one way or another over the past 14 years, whether they know it or not. We don’t want that to end, but we can’t do it alone.”

The Mudbugs are currently offering a number of versatile ticket packages for the 2011-2012 season, including season tickets in five different pricing levels. Mudbugs season ticket packages are available with flexible payment plans and include a variety of discounts for children, seniors, students, active military, police and firefighters.

In addition to full season tickets, the ‘Bugs also offer a “Pick ‘Em” 16-Game Package and Flex Books to help hockey fit into your budget and busy lifestyle. For more information on Mudbugs ticket packages and how you can help keep the ‘Bugs in Bossier-Shreveport, call 752-BUGS or stop by the team office inside the CenturyTel Center today!

How can people NOT want to go out and see live professional hockey???

I'd go to a game, just to avoid the crap on tv.

Well, Thanks Shreveport Bossier...YOU SUCK!!!

Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs to Cease Operations

06/10/2011 12:02 AM -
BOSSIER CITY, LA – The Presidents’ Cup Champion Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs of the Central Hockey League regret to announce tonight that due to severe economic conditions and the limited timeline imposed to secure sufficient revenue for the upcoming season, the team will be forced to cease operations after 14 remarkably successful seasons in Bossier-Shreveport.

Despite tonight’s unfortunate announcement, the Mudbugs will remain open for business throughout the month of June while season ticket deposits and playoff rollover money is refunded to fans in full.

“The first thing Leslie and I want to do is thank all the fans for the outpouring of support we have received over the past week,” said Owner Tommy Scott on behalf of his family. “It’s been amazing how those people have stepped up to try and save Mudbugs Hockey. Unfortunately, time was our biggest enemy as we were forced to decide tonight about continuing and just were not able to get all the pieces put together quickly enough.”

“We’re in a position where we cannot continue to lose large sums of money like we did this year,” Scott continued. “The reason for our goal of 2,500 season tickets was not meant to be unrealistic; it was a number we had to come close to hitting in order to give us a fighting chance at making it work without significant and damaging losses. It’s basically impossible for us to continue under the current financial circumstances without the guarantee of significantly increased revenue.

“It was disappointing that the league’s deadline could not be extended and that we could not secure a meeting with SMG Management this week to discuss updating our lease. We all hoped and believed that we could get there and I can’t possibly express enough our gratitude for the support from our loyal fans. We just ran out of time.”

The entire Mudbugs organization, including staff, players, and ownership would like to extend its sincere thanks to a passionate, loyal and exuberant fan base that allowed the team to exist for 14 unforgettable years in Shreveport and Bossier City.

Thanks largely to that support, the Mudbugs created one of the most impressive winning traditions in all of minor professional hockey, beginning in 1997 and continuing all the way until the team’s final Championship triumph in Game 7 of this year’s Presidents’ Cup Finals. In their 14-year existence, the ‘Bugs compiled a record of 565-269-83 (.661%) in 917 regular season games.

In another 152 playoff games, the club cemented its excellence with 93 wins and four Presidents’ Cup Championships. The Mudbugs also won two other conference titles, three Governors’ Cup Regular Season Championships and appeared in the playoffs in 13 of their 14 seasons of competition.

During that time the club also made community involvement a top priority, with players, staff members and fans donating countless hours to charity work at local schools, hospitals and other non-profit organizations. Monetary donations, memorabilia auctions and charitable drives all became integral parts of the team’s identity throughout the area.

“We are so thankful for the opportunity to be a part of this franchise for the past two years. During that time we accomplished some incredible things: building a Championship team, donating tens of thousands of dollars to charity, volunteering our time to work with kids, and entertaining over 200,000 people in the Ark-La-Tex,” said Scott.

“We want to thank Dr. Mike Plaman for bringing the team here and John Madden for his years of ownership and allowing us to buy the team, as well as the other owners in the CHL for their support. We also want to recognize our hard-working staff members, players and corporate partners for all that they’ve done. Most of all we appreciate the thousands of hard-core Mudbugs fans who have made everything worth while and helped make the last two years some of the best of our lives.”

“I think everyone is sad about this, and it will be very difficult to walk away. I hope that everyone will remember the good times they enjoyed with the Mudbugs, and who knows, maybe Mudbugs Hockey will be back some day.”

Again, the Mudbugs office inside the CenturyTel Center will be open for the remainder of the month. Starting early next week, refund checks will be available at the team office for all ticket holders who paid deposits toward 2011-2012 season tickets, including rollover from 2011 playoff ticket packages.

Thanks to you most of us found out about a championship team we would have never met. I know down here in New Orleans, there was no mention of the championship that I saw. In any case, we're going to miss that iconic avatar for a few months.

http://cdn.710keel.com/files/2011/05...00-185x200.jpg

Thanks FF. It's been fun.

Forever that is awesome.