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The SMJHL Playoffs are over the Kelowna Knights are your Four Star Cup Champs ! Kelowna had a first round by, and a second round match up vs the Whalers. This was a tight seven game series that saw Kelowna taking a lot of penalties. The series was would eventually be tied 3-3. With game 7 being in Kelowna. They finished first place in the regular season for a reason, and it showed in game 7, with Kelowna taking home the win. Going into the SMJHL finals, kelowna felt very confident. Many teams had Kelowna locked as the favourite, not just because they finished first during the regular season, but many people felt that who ever came out of the west would the four star cup. Going into game one it saw the two teams tied at two goals a piece at the end of the first, which would then end up season detroit score the next 3 goals to take game one 5-2, and out shooting the knights 39-22. Game one brought back bad memories for the Knights which saw themselves in the penalty box a lot more often then they’d like. After the game Leonidas gathered the team together for a player only meeting. Game two we saw a more motivated Knights team, scoring just 14 seconds into the game off a goal from Karol Kuzmin. By the end of the first, the knights had a 3-1 lead, and only took one penalty. The second period only saw one goal from either team, and that being the Falcons, to even up the scoring a bit 3-2. But by the end of the third, kelowna would add two more goals, and take a 5-2 win, and a closer game in the shot depart 30-27 for the knights. Game three would be another great game for the knights, in which the Falcons would end up pulling their goalie. Kelowna would take the game with a final score of 7-4. Moving into game four, the falcons would end up pulling their goalie again, where on the other side of the ice mark harter stood strong, kelowna would take the game 5-1. Game five, after being delayed, and forced to postpone the game, both teams were ready to go. Kelowna jumped off to an early attack, taking a 2-0 lead into the third. Shortly once the third being, Knights captain Leonidas would another goal for the knights to make it 3-0. Detroit would come back and answer with 2 of their own goals, making it a 3-2 game with over 3 minutes left. The teams would battle back and forth, but that goal by Leanidas would hold up as the game winner ! The Knights took the Falcons in a 5 game commanding series .

Onto our featured player, Ales Smirnov. Last time we checked in with Ales was at the end of the regular season. At that point in time Ales posted a stats line of, "GP:40 Goals: 8, Assist:12, Points:20 with a plus 12, and 0.88 points per 20.” How did Ales do through the playoffs? Well In round one, the Knights had the by so him and the rest of the team got some much needed rest. Onto round two, Ales played the first three games of the season, but then with some shock he was a healthy scratch. Not much is known why, but he did not play games, four, five, or six. He got slotted back in for game seven and ended up picking up an assist. He played all five games during the final for the Knights, picked up two assists. His stat line throughout the playoffs was, 9 games played, 0 goals, 4 assists, for a total of 4 points, and plus 1. These are decent numbers for the young rookie, who played on the third line for the playoffs . It was told that he had some nice looks but was not able to finish the play. Ales will most likely be playing a large roll for the knights next season, he will be counted upon to finish plays, and make even bigger plays.
Ales is going into the upcoming SHL draft, and theres been a lot of different guess where he will go, some scouts are predicting him to go 9th over all to the Hamilton Steel hawks, while other scouts have him dropping all the way to 21st. That is a large gap, 12 spots to be exact. We personally think that he will be a low first round pick, to a high second round pick. Ales has shown a great commitment to his team and to better himself through the season, we can only presume that is hard work ethic will continue and his growth will as well.

In conclusion, Ales Smirnov is a defensive minded playmaker . You can expect Ales to play a big role for the Knight next season, as he will be relied upon.


Teammate Review

Goalies

Mark Harter - Probably one of the most active guys on our team, and maybe the most active out of all the rookies. Mark had early season struggles, but near the end of our season became a bonafide starter, and arguably one of the best goalies in the SMJHL. Mark could easily win MVP for us, with many high save games throughout the playoffs, and keeping us in games when we had no business too. I hope the SHL doesn’t take you from us <3.

Adam Demko - Demko was mostly inactive, and was’t gonna throw him in here, but its worth a mention that he fought Mark for the starting position early in the season,

Defense

Marius Kwik - Another top rookie?! Kwik taken second in the SMJHL draft, showed why he should have been taken first. Kwik may me the most impressive rookie this season, he may not be lighting the lamp, but he sure helped his teammates do it. Kwik was a pivot on the knights back end, playing big minutes every game, and was a huge part of the teams success . I hope you return to us as well <3.

Arthur Nsenga - Once again, I wasn’t gonna throw him in here since he was inactive, but none the less he had a pretty good season stats wise, so its worth a mention.

As for the rest of the D, they were all pretty inactive, MooseJaw hopped on a couple of times, but never had an interaction with him.

Forwards
4th Line - Jacks Robotzzzz actually had a few nice moments, and a couple of goalies.

Xander Mole - Another inactive player, but had a decent impact, and was my center for most of the season …

Tanner Carter - SNS, who jumped in and out throughout the season, but man did that guy have his scoring high. I was a little jealous to start the season, to see you get power play time over me, but it made sense in the long run. Its nice to see you more active during the playoffs, hopefully it continues for next season, me and you are gonna have a big role !

Dolph Ziggler - One wild dude, and probably the most enjoyable PbPs. True hero for converting your player to a center, and I heard you might be joining us back next season so that will be a huge help. big beaut all around.

Trubachev - Pretty inactive for the season, but he did play a part in us winning, so deserves some glory.

Modanno - We didn’t talk much, but I always saw you in the locker room, and in PbPs. Played a huge part in our success this season. You are one hell of a playmaker, with that sick vision on the ice. Wish you luck in the shl!

Merit Conska - Merit the mother fucking tonka Csonka . My boy who introduced me the league and really showed me the ropes. Played a huge factor this season, second line winger, first line power play, first line penalty kill. You even kept up with Leo in the point the race during the playoffs ! You had a great season all around. If you find your way back to us next season, its going to be a huge help, and you’ll play an even bigger role, but then again you deserve to be in the SHL !

Sean Leonidas - What can I even say about you ma’fk. Lead the league in points during the season and the playoffs, carried our team on your shoulders numerous games, and you are one genuinely chill dude. Next seasons gonna be impossible to fill your shoes down in Kelowna, but thank the lord we got a cup in before you left. You deserve to shine in the SHL bbg, make me proud.

Last but not least, the one dude that made it happen, Jedi.

Jedi offered me a contract at the start of the season like many other GMs, since i was fk and joined late. What sold me on you ? No idea man too be honest, but I’m glad I made the right decision for once and didn’t fuck up. You answered numerous questions of mine, end even promoted me for a bit . Will not talk about you leaving me out of the lineup for a couple playoffs game though .. Thanks for making it all happen! Pull some magic and make it happen again next year, ok ?

Sorry If I missed anyone, comment and ill add ya. Lots of writing lol .

Ales Smirnov will now field questions!

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Now that your first season is over, How would you describe your experience in the SHL?

Its been great, Ive been lucky enough to play for such a great team, that is just built around cool dudes, from vets to rookies. I know its only going to get better once I start meeting new people, so im really looking forward to next season and what it has to bring!

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What are your expectations for the draft?

Honestly, no idea. As a player you try not to listen to media, but its really hard. I heard that ESS listed me at number 21? But then ive also heard that theres talks of me going in the late first to early second. Im just trying not to get my hopes up, and stay humble where ever I go, and not let it effect me!

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Who do you see as the stand out player on the team?

Well theres definitely three, without Mark Harter, the Stud in net, we would have been screwed, without Kwik on the line we would have been screwed again. And Leo just came up clutch in so many different moments, its hard to leave him out of the talks.

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How does it feel to be a champion?

Honestly, the full effect have not sunk in yet. But just lifting that cup over your head for the first time, and hearing all the fans cheering, its great. Its so rewarding to know that all of our hard work all season has paid off, and that it did not go to waste ! Im just in a state of shock right , its nuts.

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Where do you want to play in the SHL?

Honestly there are so many great teams in the SHL, and I know that im not a super star like some of the other players in the draft, and it will be a privilege to play for whatever team picks me up! Although I do have some family in Edmonton, so it would be cool to play in front of family and friends. Also, how could you say no to being drafted by the renegades. Two cups, two years in a row? Thats pretty amazing. But like I said, I am excited to play for any team that drafts me, and I will make sure to not disappoint or blow my chance !

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What would you say was the high point of the season?

There was so many different high points to be honest. From stepping out onto the ice for the first time as a Kelowna, to getting my first goal. And how can you not mention making the playoffs and winning the four star cup ? Its pretty hard to nail day one exact moment, since there was so many fun and interesting times this season, but i would have to go with winning the four star cup. Some people never even get the chance to make the playoff finals, yet alone win it. So to win it in my first season is a pretty special moment that I will never forget.

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What game was most memorable for you and why?

Well this just continues on to my previous answer, winning the cup. It was such a thrilling game, getting a 3-0 lead, but then having detroit get two goals of their own made it very interesting. Everyone was battling as hard as they could to take home the victory, and we were able to make it happen as a team !

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Do you think Kelowna can repeat with Their returning players?

Well we have the main pieces to do it, from starting goalie, number 1 D, and a first line. Not to mention we have the experience now, which will help us a lot. At the same time, we are losing a lot of key players, which played big roles for us. Its up to the returning players to fill those rolls, and the new draft class to make an impact for the Knights. Its going to be a hard fought battle, but it is very do able.

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Do you take it as an insult to stay in the juniors another year?

No of course not, Im new to the SMJHL and joined the league late. Im still learning the ropes of the game. Not to mention my former captain Leonidas spent two years in junior, so its not out of the ordinary to play in junior. We have a great team and a great environment, I would embrace spending another year down more then anything.

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Would you be opposed to staying a third year down?

Well thats totally up to my management , and what they think is best for my game. If they I need more time to develop, then thats what I have to do. Former teammate, Merit Csonka spent three years in junior and he said he loved the experience, and being able to play a large part in the teams success. So id be fine to play a third year if needed, id look to play big minutes, and be a team leader on and off the ice for all the rookies and new players to the team.

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Did you ever consider signing with a different SMJHL team?

If I said no, id be lying. If I can remember correctly, I was contacted by four teams, one team went very aggressive, sending me multiple offers, and different promises. And other team promised me big minutes. So at the time there was a lot of different questions flowing through my head, and it was a very tough decision, but I am glad I picked the right team, I could not be happier .

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Will Carter/Smirnov be the most deadly combo in the SMJHL next season?

Carter and I have gained some chemistry together this season, playing with each other abit at the start of the season, and then at the end of playoffs we were reunited. It is safe to say, as long as Carter stays active through the season and keeps updating, we can be a deadly combo. He has such a great shot, and the ability to find the open ice, so i know if i can get him the puck we should have no trouble putting up goals. In my mind, we should be a deadly duo this upcoming season.

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What sort of minutes are you looking for next season if you do return?

Well I am highly expecting to return next season, I feel like it is important for my growth as a player. With that said, the departure of key players like Leonidas, Modano, and Merit, Will leave a lot of ice time to be filled, I know fellow teammate dolph ziggler will take up a large chunk of minutes, even strength, power play and penalty kill. With that being said, I am ready to step up and play a large amount of minutes as well, in all situations. I want to be a go to player for the team, and be able to lead the team.

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How has your year been playing under Jedi?

It was great! I can not say enough good things about him. He was there to help everyone out, and ultimately built a championship team in his first season. He is very committed to better the team, and always looking for ways to solve problems that do arise. I am very happy that I will get another season with Jedi.

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Describe your team? What time of locker room do you guys have?

The Kelowna Knights, a team that strives for success, a hard working team, a dedicated team, a loyal team. Kelowna has every attribute that a team needs, from the top to the bottom. As for the locker room, it was very active, and everyone had a good time. From making jokes, to talking game and strategy. Its just a great environment to be involved in.

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You've tasted victory in your first season. Explain to us how you felt during that last game.

It was unbelievable! Even during my time in Russia, I never experienced something so thrilling and rewarding. Throughout the whole game our team was so positive, and only expected to win and nothing else. When your team supports each other, and has faith in each other, it breeds success . As the game went on, and neared an end, I could really feel my heart pumping, I could feel the win coming, but I did not want to get ahead of myself. When the win finally came, there was just so much excitement, I was speechless.

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Goals for next season?

Obviously Id like to win the four star cup again, but first comes making the playoffs, and doing well during the regular season. For personal goals, Id like to be top ten in points. Id also like to be a solid defensive player in our own end, that will only lead to success if we can shore up the amount of shots we give up . But in the end, ultimately I would just like to see improvement in all areas of my game. </div>

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3136 Words

Stavros Kondos || F || Seattle Argonauts



Theo Kondos || F || Jesster & Darr Winner - CC x2 || 
-- CAREER STATS --
-- SHL Regular Season --
S58 - GP:66 | G:17 | A:36 | P:53 |  SOG: 130 |  HITS:35  |  TOI: 17:32
S59 - GP:66 | G:14 | A:36 | P:50 |  SOG: 181 |  HITS:41  |  TOI: 18:15
S60 - GP:66 | G:19 | A:37 | P:56 |  SOG: 184 |  HITS:44  |  TOI: 18:34
S61 - GP:66 | G:32 | A:26 | P:58 |  SOG: 188 |  HITS:48  |  TOI: 19:50
S62 - GP:66 | G:21 | A:32 | P:53 |  SOG: 207 |  HITS:57  |  TOI: 20:36
S63 - GP:66 | G:23 | A:40 | P:63 |  SOG: 297 |  HITS:90  |  TOI: 22:00
S64 - GP:66 | G:27 | A:59 | P:86 |  SOG: 237 |  HITS:110 |  TOI: 21:30
S65 - GP:66 | G:39 | A:46 | P:85 |  SOG: 240 |  HITS:161 |  TOI: 21:59
S66 - GP:66 | G:39 | A:65 | P:104| SOG: 230 |  HITS:134 |  TOI: 22:08
S67 - GP:66 | G:27 | A:38 | P:65 |  SOG: 177 |  HITS:164 |  TOI: 21:40
S68 - GP:66 | G:19| A:41 | P:60  |  SOG: 177 |  HITS:159 |  TOI: 19:51
S69 - GP:66 | G:16| A:41 | P:57  |  SOG: 143 |  HITS:110 |  TOI: 19:21
S70 - GP:66 | G:11| A:37 | P:48  |  SOG: 120 |  HITS:123 |  TOI: 18:40
S71 - GP:66 | G:30| A:36 | P:66  |  SOG: 199 |  HITS:126 |  TOI: 20:46
-- SHL Playoffs --
S58 - GP:12 |  G:2 |  A:7   |  P:9   | SOG: 16  | HITS:6  | TOI: 17:35
S59 - GP:16 |  G:6 |  A:10 |  P:16  | SOG: 33  | HITS:4  | TOI: 19:39
S60 - GP:9  |  G:0 |  A:5   |  P:5   | SOG: 23  | HITS:11 | TOI: 18:55
S61 - GP:19 |  G:6 |  A:12 |  P:18  | SOG: 47  | HITS:18 | TOI: 19:21
S62 - GP:24 |  G:9 |  A:11 |  P:20  | SOG: 75  | HITS:34 | TOI: 20:55
S63 - GP:9  |  G:0 |  A:3   |  P:3   | SOG: 37  | HITS:20 | TOI: 22:21
S64 - GP:13 |  G:3 |  A:10 |  P:13 |  SOG: 58 | HITS:31 | TOI: 22:55
S65 - GP:17 |  G:3 |  A:7 |  P:10  |  SOG: 46 | HITS:46 | TOI: 22:21
S66 - GP:14|  G:8|  A:12 |  P:20  |  SOG: 56 | HITS:22 | TOI: 21:59
S67 - GP:7 |  G:0 |  A:4  |  P:4  |  SOG: 18  | HITS:9 | TOI: 22:01
S68 - GP:15|  G:5 |  A:12 |  P:17 |  SOG: 56 | HITS:27 | TOI: 21:45
S69 - GP:7|   G:1 |  A:6 |  P:7 |  SOG: 14 | HITS:19 | TOI: 19:59
-- SMJHL --
S54 - GP:50, G:7, A:7, P:14, SOG: 47, HITS:31, TOI: 11:22
S55 - GP:50, G:13, A:16, P:29, SOG: 98, HITS:35, TOI: 18:09
S56 - GP:50, G:18, A:26, P:44, SOG: 128, HITS:35, TOI: 16:53
S57 - GP:66, G:26, A:26, P:52, SOG: 220, HITS:48, TOI: 19:05
-- AWARDS --
S54: Drafted 6th Overall - Anchorage Armada[SMJHL]
S55: Drafted 5th Overall - Texas Renegades [SHL]
S57: Four Star Cup Champions - Anchorage Armada [SMJHL]
S57: DeMaricus Smyth Award for Top Forward - Dach [WJC]
S57: Brady McIntyre Award for WJC MVP - Dach [WJC]
S58: Ryan Jesster Award - Best SHL Rookie [SHL]
S58: All Rookie Team [SHL]
S59: CHALLENGE CUP WINNERS [SHL]
S62: CHALLENGE CUP WINNERS [SHL]
S64: West All Star [SHL]
S64: 2nd Team All Star [SHL]
S65: West All Star [SHL]
S65: 3rd Team All Star [SHL]
S65: Darr Nominee [SHL]
S66: West All Star [SHL]
S66: Darr Winner [SHL]
S66: 1st Team All Star [SHL]
S68: Bronze Medal - Austria  [IIHF]
S71: West All Star [SHL]


Ostap Maksimov || D || Retired || Challenge Cup x3 ||
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SHL Regular Season Statistics:
600 GP - 325 P - 3 Cups
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Ales Smirnov RW/D || Retired || Ron Mexico MVP: S35 ||
-- CAREER STATS --
REGULAR SEASON GP: 857 G:210 A:389 P:599
-- AWARDS --
S21: SMJHL Presidents Trophy & Four Star Cup | Kelowna Knights
S21:Elias Armia Trophy (Award in Excellence Given By The League Commissioner.)
S22: Four Star Cup Champs | Kelowna Knights
S22: Ted Lindsay Award (SMJHL MVP)
S22: Brodie Witzel Trophy (Playoffs MVP)
S23: SHL All Rookie Team
S26: IIHF Gold (Russia)
S28: IIHF Silver (Russia)
S32: IIHF Bronze (Russia)
S35: Ron Mexico (SHL MVP)
S38: IIHF Gold (Russia)

Now that your first season is over, How would you describe your experience in the SHL?

What are your expectations for the draft?

Who do you see as the stand out player on the team?

What would you say was the high point of the season?

What game was most memorable for you and why?

What team do you most want to play for?

Do you think Kelowna can repeat with Their returning players?

Do you take it as an insult to stay in the juniors another year?

Would you be opposed to staying a third year down?

Congratulations on winning the 4 star cup and on an excellent season.


How does it feel to be a champion?

Where do you want to play in the SHL?

Did you ever consider signing with a different SMJHL team?

Will Carter/Smirnov be the most deadly combo in the SMJHL next season?

What sort of minutes are you looking for next season if you do return?


How has your year been playing under Jedi?


Describe your team? What time of locker room do you guys have?



You've tasted victory in your first season. Explain to us how you felt during that last game.


Goals for next season?