(July 1, 2008) Early summer of 2008 featured the fourth year for HMI’s 3-on-3 tournament, the Elite Hockey Challenge, in Newmarket, Ontario. The gathering draws current players from the junior, university, and pro levels to get connected and be encouraged.

Junior Hockey Chaplain and OHL/OHA Coordinator Jamie Ramer explains that “players in attendance were made up of guys who have had some sort of connection through chapel programs through the year.” However, he is quick to add that though most players are drawn from this pool of contenders, it is not exclusive to that group. In fact, year four marked the first time players who were no longer in juniors were officially included in the invitation. In all, twenty-two Elite hockey players representing all levels of Tier 2 hockey attended the daylong tournament, not counting HMI staff, family members, and numerous volunteers also present.

“The goal was to have an opportunity to connect—with HMI, with other guys in the game—have some fun and be encouraged," said Ramer. In addition to fun on the ice, former NHL player Dave Burrows shared stories from his game days, and more importantly, his journey in the faith. Second-year-visitor and Central Hockey League veteran Stacey Bauman said he could see God moving throughout the lives of all who attended. “I saw God moving in building friendships amongst the guys that are in some way connected with the ministry from many different places in the hockey world.” With the different range of players on the ice, from junior to pro, guys stepped up and the older group took on a mentoring role with the younger guys.

One of the main purposes for the tournament is to carry the camaraderie built during the season by HMI chapels through to the off season. Ramer adds: “This just seems to be a nice touch to compliment our chapels during the year and build towards next season, as well as deepening relationships with the guys.” The main ministry remains to be targeted for those 16-20 years old, playing at the junior level. “It certainly was a strong fellowship opportunity for young guys,” observes Bauman. The 5th-year pro believes the fellowship is helpful and a crucial element for the players. For many young people, their experience playing junior hockey is their first time away from home longer than a weekend tournament. There are new temptations and more peer pressure. Having the Newmarket tournament as a “touch base” event in the summertime keeps the fellowship unbroken, and provides new opportunities for players to connect.


ALEX PIRUS

(July 1, 2008) Each week Hockey Ministries International will salute a Chaplain of the Week" in order to acknowledge our chaplains who volunteer their time and resources to serve the hockey world. Currently HMI has over 200 volunteer chaplains who are staging chapel programs in 22 professional and amateur leagues across North America and Europe.

Alex Pirus is the chaplain for the Chicago Blackhawks of the National Hockey League and the Chicago Wolves of the American Hockey League. He has served as chaplain for both teams for the past 11 seasons. Pirus has been a fulltime HMI staff member for the past 15 years.

As a player, Pirus began to make a name for himself as a top scorer for the "Fighting Irish" of Notre Dame during his college career which began in 1973. Alex was Notre Dame's leading scorer his sophomore and junior seniors. While at Notre Dame, Pirus also earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Finance.

After his junior season at Notre Dame, Pirus decided to turn pro and signed with the NHL North Stars, after Minnesota drafted him in the 3rd round of the 1975 NHL entry draft. In Alex's rookie season with the North Stars in 1976-77, he scored 20 goals.

Following a three-year career with Minnesota from 1976-79, Pirus had a short stint with the Detroit Red Wings during the 1979-80 season. He retired from professional hockey following a 71 point season with the Central Hockey League's Indianapolis Checkers in 1980-81.

In addition to Pirus handling chapels with the Chicago Blackhawks and Chicago Wolves, he also visits with other Christian players in the NHL and AHL when their respective teams play in the Windy City. Alex also works as an instructor and administrates several camps through HMI's Christian Hockey Camps International program, traveling to other parts of the United States, to Canada and Europe.

Alex and his wife Debbie are the parents of three children, Samantha (24), Misty (19) and Benjamin (17). In addition to his love for hockey, Pirus also enjoys skiing, Alex has a strong love for people and wants to witness and serve Jesus Christ wherever he goes. He is also known as a strong prayer warrior. Please pray for Alex as he serves the hockey community in Chicago and around the world by sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ and encouraging Christians.

SOME THINGS ABOUT ALEX YOU DIDN'T KNOW: "I grew up in Toronto and played all of my junior hockey in the Toronto area. I once played for a team called the Butter Beeps. We basically had the Detroit Red Wings uniforms but instead of the wheel and the wing as a crest, we had a big yellow pound of butter with musical notes on the front of our jerseys . It was a funny name for a very good team. In fact this team had won the Canadian midget championship a few years before I played for them."

"The big yellow pound of butter on the front of our jerseys was there for a purpose. It represented our sponsor, the Ontario Dairy Association. It was their way of getting even with a commercial by a margarine company. The commercial featured a person tasting the margarine and commenting that the margarine tasted just like Butter. But the word Butter was beeped out the same way a swear word is beeped out on television. Hence, the name, the Butter Beeps."

CLICK HERE to read a news story in 1978 from the Minneapolis Star. In an exhibition game between the NHL's North Stars and World Hockey Association's Winnipeg Jets, Pirus was assigned to cover one of the greatest players ever, Bobby Hull. How did Alex do? Click to read the story.

Hockey Ministries International does have some current openings for chaplains in certain cities, towns and communities. If you are interested in serving as an HMI chaplain or know someone who would be interested, please e-mail Don Liesemer Jr. at donjr@hockeyministries.org. Let us know where you live, and we will let you know if we have a need in your area.

(June 12, 2008) In conjunction with the 2008 Memorial Cup in Kitchner, Ontario, Hockey Ministries International staged an outreach breakfast on Saturday, May 24. The banquet was packed with 300 plus enthusiastic hockey fans, which included a good representation of Ontario Hockey League players, owners, and leadership. Also attending was a stellar group of former professional hockey players and Memorial Cup participants, as well as HMI President, Don Liesemer Sr.

The breakfast event began with an honor guard, representing the Canadian Armed Forced, bringing in the coveted Memorial Cup to the banquet room. Canadian Hockey League highlights were also shown, and a full table of the eventual Memorial Cup champions Spokane Chiefs breakfast was also present.

The highlight of the morning included the sharing of life and faith in the game from former National Hockey League players Dean Prentice, Mark Osborne, Laurie Boschman and David Cressman. NHL Hall of Famer Mike Gartner also shared the love of God demonstrated to us in Jesus Christ.

The HMI Ontario staff of Paul Allen, Jamie Ramer and Jeff and Joanne Jackson, along with a tremendous group of local volunteers, organized the breakfast. All of us at Hockey Ministries International thank God for this wonderful morning that gave honor to Him, centered around one of North America’s premier hockey events.

Over the years Les has built a great relationship with the Hurricanes' players and management. Regular attenders the past several seasons include Eric Staal, Glen Wesley, Cam Ward and David Tanabe. Staal, in an interview at HMI's All-Star Outreach Breakfast in Atlanta this past January, commented on the positive benefits of attending chapel and credited Burleson with doing a great job in ministering to the Hurricanes players.

Les describes himself as a “hollar boy” from Gauley Bridge, West Virginia. He loves the seclusion of the mountains, and thinks that most of life’s lessons can be learned from the seat of a canoe. He believes Jonah really was swallowed by a big fish, and that Noah really did build a big, big boat. He loves that inspired individuals can change the course of history, and thinks that most of the world’s problems will be solved by his youth group after they graduate from high school.

Les takes heart over intellect, likes sinners who appreciate grace, and wishes people who have all the answers “all the best,” as they ride off into the sunset without him. His life’s goal is to help people find happiness in the hand they've been dealt, and admires the courage of those who choose carefully what they discard. He's selfishly glad he's going to heaven, because he knows he had nothing to do with it, and thanks Jesus daily for this gift.

Burleson also gives daily thanks for his wife, Pam, who has shared his life and supported his ministry for over 19 years. Pam is a Physician’s Assistant. They are blessed with two children, Mandy, who attends Wake Forest-Rolesville High School, and Matthew, who attends Wake Forest-Rolesville Middle School.

Les graduated from Alderson-Broaddus College with a B.A. in theology and mathematics. He is also a graduate of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (1991) with a Masters of Divinity degree. Before joining WFBC in 2004, Les was a pastor for 8 years, and served on staff with Hockey Ministries International. In additional to the Hurricanes, Burleson is credited with starting 14 chapel programs for other pro sports' teams in the US and Europe.

HMI TEAMS UP WITH LIBERTY U. FLAMES HOCKEY TEAM
FOR SHORT-TERM MISSIONS' TRIP IN SWEDEN

(June 2, 2008) In January 2008, the Liberty University hockey team got the experience of a lifetime, traveling with Hockey Ministries International to Sweden on a missions trip. It was a journey that was years in the making. The best way to tell the story is probably to go back to the beginning.

Bruce Smith, of HMI’s Atlantic Division, oversees HMI’s work in Sweden as well. He explains that it all began when former University of Michigan star, Paul Kobylarz, went to play professional hockey in Sweden. Kobylarz saw a mission field at the ice arena and got in touch with Hockey Ministries International’s Don Liesemer, Sr. After a visit to Sweden, plans were made to host hockey clinics during the winter months. Eventually, clinics and camps grew to include the placement of hockey missionaries throughout various hockey towns in Sweden. These individuals would play for a team and have the opportunity serve in various local churches, the goal being to connect the churches with their surrounding community.

While HMI was setting up in Sweden, Liberty University’s fledgling hockey program was slowly growing. Dedicated puck handlers, passionate about hockey and God, were making the hour-long drive south to the closest ice surface in Roanoke, Virginia. Assistant Coach Jeff Boettger arrived at Liberty in 2005, and in the time he has been there, he has seen many changes.

Liberty has been growing exponentially," said Boettger. Included in this growth spurt was the construction of the LaHaye Ice Center, which opened on Liberty’s campus in 2006. The Liberty Flames are, in fact, one of the few teams in the American Collegiate Hockey Association with their very own home ice arena. Having an ice surface closer to home allowed the hockey program to grow from two practices a week to practices anytime they want. Realizing the dedication and support they have received, Boettger explains their stance on biblical stewardship: “As coaches and leaders here we truly feel we are building on the great efforts of so many that have gone before us and who have joined us, and we want to honor those people – and as importantly our Lord Jesus – by being faithful to continually strive to improve the various aspects of our great hockey programs.”

In this same spirit of stewardship and giving back, Boettger started brainstorming ways to have the team travel overseas for a missions trip. A former HMI staff member, he got in touch with Smith and the visit started to come together. The ministry tour would be based in southern Sweden, but the team would travel their way west to east, visiting various communities with churches supportive of the mission. His hopes for the trip were to give his team members exposure to the work that HMI does and maybe for some, to introduce them to the possibilities of playing overseas and doing ministry. Boettger wanted them to be pushed spiritually, something we are sometimes only available for when God has us out of our comfort zone.

The goals for the trip were multi-faceted, according to Smith. “Number one was to provide support to local churches in Sweden who have caught the vision of using hockey as a vehicle to connect their congregation with the surrounding community.” There were also countless opportunities for ministry, whether it was handing out Bibles after a game, or sitting down for a “fika” with the opposing team. A fika (pronounced “fee-ka”) can best be described as a meeting over a meal or snack with coffee. In this case, the get together is held before or after the game. As part of HMI’s mission in Sweden, one of the players shares their testimony. It provides a natural setting for fellowship and hopefully, opens the door to establish trust and build relationships. Smith adds, “There is still much work to be done.” He has been taking trips to Sweden since the early ‘90s and says that he hopes others will “catch the vision to use hockey as a ministry tool.”

Smith’s desire for others to catch the vision has come to fruition. In addition to players already acting as missionaries in Sweden, Liberty grad Aaron MacKenzie and his wife Tami hope to head over to Sweden next year. Aaron explains his experience on the trip: “It gave me a true perspective of Sweden and the opportunities to share the gospel there…It was very rewarding to see the churches serve the community through hockey while we were there.” He and Tami had been praying about various mission opportunities throughout Europe, and with Liberty’s pending trip to Sweden, they wondered if this could be what God had for their future. “When the opportunity arose for us to go to Sweden our prayers were that God would make it clear if this was the place He was calling us to. And, it was during the trip that the Lord answered our prayers and gave us both the peace that surpasses all comprehension, and we knew that Sweden was where the Lord wanted us.” They are hoping to travel back to Sweden in January 2009.

Although there are not always tangible ways to mark success in ministry, Smith notes the number of Bibles handed out after each game. He also made note of one community where a church had hosted their first pre-game meal with the home and visiting teams. The pastor was greatly encouraged by the experience, seeing the opportunities to build new relationships within his community that were started with Liberty’s visit. Besides that, Smith was quick to point out that there is always the “scattered seed,” and that hopefully, that seed will take root and grow.

As for the Liberty Hockey program, Boettger hopes they have the opportunity to take a similar trip again. Until then, the focus will be on growing the program and competing to stay on top. “Our goal is to be in the top 10 in the nation each year.” God has continued to bring players in, whether it be in the Men’s or Women’s ACHA Division I programs, or the Men’s Division II program. This past season, the men’s Division I team finished ranked 4th, having played through to the semi-finals at Nationals. The debate is ongoing as to whether or not club teams are able to attract the same types of players NCAA Division I programs do. Boettger is quick to point out that over half of Liberty’s Division I men’s roster is made up of players who have experience playing Junior Hockey. “Ultimately Liberty University and Liberty Hockey provide a unique atmosphere that is conducive to fostering great personal spiritual, intellectual, social and physical growth while being able to take part in a highly competitive and successful hockey program.”

Smith would welcome another visit and Boettger hopes that they will be able to take another mission trip as a team, being good stewards of their talents and using hockey to bring the good news. “In essence it is our vision to continue to take little steps forward with the long-term perspective of continually identifying ourselves as a top program in the nation that works out of a Christian worldview. This is done with the purpose in mind of demonstrating that there is more to life than hockey as we strive to help our players grow in their faith by challenging them to get out of their comfort zones in several ways: by sharing with other teams through planned meal times; by serving the local youth hockey organizations in season and during the summer through running Christian Hockey Schools; by going on missions trips…; and by spending time in prayer for each other and the teams we play throughout the year.”

While playing hockey may be at the forefront for many of the group, both Boettger and Smith expressed the sincere desire of introducing players to the long-term vision of going back to Sweden to integrate their faith and their sport. Regardless of whether or not anyone returns to Europe or stays in North America, or whether they even continue playing hockey, Boettger puts it in excellent perspective for all of us: “While our collegiate and athletic experience requires much – it gives so much more back as young men and women learn and grow into excellent, God-honoring people who will go out into our world and care for it and the people they encounter.”

Many thanks to Bruce Smith, Jeff Boettger, and Aaron MacKenzie for their time and contributions to this article. For more news on Bruce Smith and what’s going on with the Atlantic Division of HMI, visit: http://www.hockeyministries.org/atlantic/. If interested in learning more about the Liberty University hockey programs visit: www.libertyflames.com.


CHAPLAIN WADE SUNDBYE AND HMI'S CHL CHAPEL COORDINATOR DOUG HALCOMB

(June 2, 2008) Each week Hockey Ministries International will salute a Chaplain of the Week" in order to acknowledge our chaplains who volunteer their time and resources to serve the hockey world. Currently HMI has over 200 volunteer chaplains who are staging chapel programs in 22 professional and amateur leagues across North America and Europe.

Wade Sundbye is the chaplain and athletic trainer for the Oklahoma City Blazers of the Central Hockey League. He has served as chaplain for the past three seasons and just completed his 11th season as athletic trainer.

Doug Halcomb, HMI's Chapel Coordinator for the Central Hockey League described the circumstances by which Sundbye became chaplain of the Blazers. "We started chapels with Oklahoma City Blazers five years ago and Wade attended chapels that first year. The chaplain moved following that season, so I needed to find a new one. I made the decision that until the right man for the role could be found, I would make the three-hour drive every couple of weeks to lead the chapels myself. It turns out the right guy to be the new chaplain was attending chapels already, Blazers' Athletic Trainer Wade Sundbye."

"Wade was a natural to do this and was recommended by Oklahoma Coach, Doug Sauter, as a great fit to be the chaplain or at least serve as a co-chaplain with me. We shared the duties for a while, but it was clear that Wade not only could do it, but he should do it. Serving as a chaplain is an extension of who he is, his character and his heart for the players."

"I don't think this could work with any team or with any trainer, but it works exceptionally well with Wade. Sundbye received the CHL 'Trainer of the Year' Award this past season, and he probably would have won the 'Chaplain of the Year' award if there was one. I think he is so highly regarded by others in the Blazers' organization, Oklahoma City community and around the CHL because of who he is as a man of God and a friend to all, concluded Halcomb."

What Sundbye enjoys most about being the Blazers chaplain for HMI is the opportunity to make a difference not only in the lives of the players, but also in the lives of their family members or future family members. Wade has been married to Marcella for 17 years and the Sundbye's have four children, Cole, Drew, Logan and Sydney. The Sundbye's are very busy in their local homeschool community serving as coaches for the school's athletic department. The Sundbye's also enjoy outdoor activities including hunting, fishing and sports. Wade's favorite Bible story is the Parable of the Sower found in Mark Chapter 4 verses 1-20.

(May 18, 2008) Several Hockey Ministries International staff members attended the recent World Hockey Championships which were held in Canada this year. HMI staff members Bruce Smith, Mark Osborne, Tim Burke and Laurie Boschman attended games and festivities at the "Worlds" in Halifax, Nova Scotia and Quebec City, Quebec.

Their mission was to promote Hockey Ministries International when opportunities presented themselves, and encourage players and coaches already involved with and familiar with HMI. We thank the Lord that HMI had a presence at these very special games that were watched and promoted world-wide.


Ed Jovanovski celebrates a goal with his Team Canada teammates at 2008 World Hockey Championships in Quebec City, Quebec.	Goalie Robert Esche makes a save for Team USA at the 2008 World Hockey Championships in Halifax, Nova Scotia.	Players from Team Finland and Team Sweden congratulate each other after the Finns 4-0 shutout victory for the Bronze Medal

With Smith and Burke attending the games in Halifax, Osborne was given the privilege of participating in all the games including those in Queebc City as he served as a radio broadcast color analyst for the entire tournament. Osborne is an HMI staff member serving in Ontario, with Smith serving HMI as the chapel coordinator of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League as well as supervising the ministry's outreach in Sweden. Burke, a former Major League Baseball pitcher with the Montreal Expos, New York Mets and New York Yankees, serves HMI by organizing chapels in the National Hockey League. Boschman also serves with the HMI Ontario team, and resides in Ottawa.

Russia's overtime goal gave them a 5-4 victory over Team Canada and the Gold Medal Sunday at the 2008 World Hockey Championships in Quebec City, Quebec. Ilya Kovalchuk's goal 2:42 into sudden-death overtime proved to be the game-winner. Team Canada's Rick Nash was given a penalty in the OT to setup Kovalchuk's power--play tally. Russia Head Coach Slava Bykov sent out a power play line in overtime consisting of Kovalchuk, Alexander Ovechkin, Alexander Semin and Sergei Fedorov. For Team Canada, Shane Doan, Dan Hamhuis and Steve Staios were defending the 4-3 Russian advantage.

Team Canada was the defending champs, while Russia won the World Championship for the first time since 1993. Kovalchuk's rocket shot went over the glove of Team Canada goalie Cam Ward to end Russia's 15-year drought. The win was in true comeback style with the Russians scoring the game's last three goals and erasing a 4-2 deficit. Team Canada's defeat continued an amazing 23-year mark of the home team not winning the tournament. Not since 1986 when the Russians won on their soil has the host team won the tournament. In the Bronze Medal game, Finland came up with a 4-0 shutout victory over Sweden. Niklas Backstrom was in goal for Team Finland and stopped 36 shots, helping the Finns forget about a 5-4 semi-final loss to Team Canada Friday night.Team Canada's Shane

Doan, Eric Stahl and Cam Ward are players that actively participate in Hockey Ministries International's chapel programs throughout the season. Team USA's David Booth is also an active HMI chapel participant, and volunteers at HMI's Christian Hockey Camp International summer youth camps.***Portions of this article taken from the National Post

(May 17, 2008) Each week Hockey Ministries International will salute a Chaplain of the Week" in order to acknowledge our chaplains who volunteer their time and resources to serve the hockey world. Currently HMI has over 200 volunteer chaplains who are staging chapel programs in 22 professional and amateur leagues across North America and Europe.

Bill Houston is the chaplain for the American Hockey League's Grand Rapids Griffins. Houston also helps Hockey Ministries International as one of three AHL "League Chapel Coordinators."

Bill grew up in Havre de Grace, Maryland, and began his radio career as a child by hooking up a 5-watt transmitter to his house antenna and "playing radio." In high school, Bill sharpened his skills by volunteering at the campus radio station. From there, he built a career in secular radio.

After accepting Jesus Christ in 1982, Bill desired to use his abilities in radio to serve Christ. He went on to produce the radio program "Morning Cheer" and a short feature titled "Expressions." Both programs originated from the studios at Sandy Cove Bible Conference in North East, Maryland.

Bill was welcomed to Radio Bible Class in September 1994 as an associate producer. He went on to produce Radio Bible Class Weekend when the program began using a story format. In 1998, the program's name changed from Radio Bible Class Weekend to Words To Live By. He now serves as one of two on-air hosts of the program. He also contributes to the hosting and production of Sports Spectrum Radio.

In addition to his work at RBC and as chaplain for the Griffins, Bill serves as chaplain for the Grand Rapids Rampage of the Arena Football League. Another passion for Houston is coordinating annual Chaplains' conferences in several cities including Lansing, Michigan, Indianapolis, Indiana and Charlotte, North Carolina.

Bill's family includes his wife Jeanene and his three daughters, Jennifer, Katie, and Amanda. He would also be glad to tell anyone about his six precious grand children.

Houston's favorite words to live by are from Galatians 2:20:"I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me."

(May 6, 2008) Steve Jones is in his fourth year serving Hockey Ministries International as Financial and Benefits Administrator. That title only partially describes what Jones does for the ministry.

Every ministry needs staff with strong administrative abilities, and Steve has been blessed with those gifts. With a bookkeeping background, Jones is involved in the ministry's accounting, bookkeeping, banking and record keeping responsibilities.

Jones also keeps Hockey Ministry International as members in good standing with the Canadian Council of Christian Charities, the financial accountability group that monitors Christian ministries. He also works with HMI's treasurer and the ministry's Board of Directors on financial issues.

Steve is as dedicated as they come. He performs his duties with enthusiasm, and is always willing to help out in any way he can. While not always on the front lines, his work greatly assists the HMI field staff so that they can be effective on the front lines of ministry. Steve does get an opportunity to occasionally get out of the office by helping out at HMI Standstead, Quebec Christian Hockey Camps International camp each summer.

One place you don't want to meet Jones is in a dark alley (LOL). One of Steve's hobbies when he gets time away from the office is taking karate lessons. Jones attends his lessons faithfully each week and enjoys this challenge. Steve also is a tax preparer and helps clients prepare their annual tax returns in his spare time each spring.

A blessed event will occur this fall as Steve and his fiancee, Megan, will be married this October in Montreal. In the meantime, Steve will be at HMI MInistry Centre handling a number of duties and doing them well. Pray for Steve as he continues to fill a vital role at Ministry Centre.

(May 6, 2008) Each week Hockey Ministries International will salute a Chaplain of the Week" in order to acknowledge our chaplains who volunteer their time and resources to serve the hockey world. Currently HMI has over 200 volunteer chaplains who are staging chapel programs in 22 professional and amateur leagues across North America and Europe.

Mark Magruder is the HMI chaplain for the Reading (Pennsylvania) Royals of the ECHL. Magurder began his ministry with the Royals by serving as the team's Assistant Chaplain in 2001 under Head Chaplain Bryan Koch. Two seasons later Mark took over as lead chaplain.

Magruder was born in Philadelphia in 1962 and has lived in or around the Philly area for his entire life. After graduating from Lansdowne-Aldan High School in Delaware County, he graduated from Drexel University in Philadelphia in 1985, where he received a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting. After three years of Public Accounting and three years of corporate accounting for a fortune 500 company, he decided in 1989 to start his own snack vending business. In 2007 he sold the vending business and has started a wholesale auto broker business, licensed in Montana, delivering vehicles mostly to Canada. The business is called Mark 1:17.

Married in 1985 to Maryanne, the Magruders have three boys, Eric, Paul & Rusty. All adults now, the Magruder's sons are living in California, Saskatchewan and Pennsylvania, Mark and Maryanne are kept busy visiting and traveling. Very involved in hockey, Mark has been an off-ice official, mostly a goal judge, with the American Hockey League's Philadelphia Phantoms since 2002, and with the Royals since 2005.

In 1997, Mark and his son Paul traveled to Lesin, Switzerland for their first Hockey Ministries International Camp in Europe. It was in there where Mark accepted an invitation to an altar call, from Don Liesemer Sr. to find out more about the free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. Paul was only 11 at the time but really enjoyed the camps. Four summers later, Paul accepted Jesus as his Lord & Savior in Detroit, and the whole family changed to live for the Lord. Paul also went on to Briercrest Bible College in Caronport, Saskatchewan where he married Darcie, from Alberta.

Magruder has been attending Morning Star Fellowship in Bechtlesville, Pennsylvania since 2002, and loves the Bible studies, evangelism, outreaches & fellowship associated with other believers. Mark has been working since 1997 at various HMI camps in the summer

(April 29, 2008) The year 2008 brought one of the most active winters in recent memory, and Canada’s capital city can attest to that fact. The heavy amounts of snowfall even affected the accessibility of the world famous Rideau Canal Skateway. (It is undetermined whether or not it affected beavertail sales during the Winterlude festival.)

However, a sure sign of spring breezed through town the weekend of April 12 in the form of the 5-on-5 Hockey Challenge tournament put on by Hockey Ministries International every year in Ottawa. Teams from Montreal, Toronto, Northern Kings, Kingston, Williamsburg, and of course Ottawa made up the six-team roster for 2008. Laurie Boschman, of HMI Ottawa, has coordinated the 5-on-5 for the past five years. With new faces each year, Boschman has a new audience to share with about his two loves: hockey and his faith in Christ.

The crosswalk of faith and hockey dates back fifteen years, to the arrival of an NHL franchise in Ottawa. It was Boschman’s last year in the National Hockey League and after his retirement, he was eager to find a way to stay connected with his sport and his faith. Having been involved with Hockey Ministries International during his playing days, establishing a presence for HMI in Ottawa was a logical step. And thus, HMI Ottawa was born. The efforts have succeeded to host two chapel ministries, both with the Ontario Hockey League’s 67s and the NHL’s Ottawa Senators. In addition to chapels, there are hockey camps to think about, tournaments to plan for, and the annual golf outing to set up. The flurry of activity keeps Boschman busy, but he’s not complaining. He’s a man on a mission.

When asked about the overall reception to HMI’s presence in Ottawa, Boschman notes that it’s good, but that there’s always a somewhat mixed reception to the gospel. People are generally open to it, if not necessarily joining in. “They see it’s good for young people…there’s a positive message.”

The intent of the 5-on-5 Hockey Challenge is outreach, to spread this positive message to a sometimes unreached audience. Ottawa is one of three sites in Ontario that hosts these outreaches each year. According to Paul Allen, HMI Ontario’s Team Coordinator, the tournaments act as a conduit to promote HMI and hopefully create fundraising opportunities. The exposure offers what Boschman calls “a great chance to tell HMI’s story” and to share the gospel in a laid back atmosphere.

One of the day’s top goals is also to have fun, as veteran volunteer Darlene Nickel can attest to. She got involved with the event on the administrative side of things, as her husband participates in the games. She said there is always a great atmosphere and that she thinks it’s something good not only for the participants, but also for the staff at the rink. “It’s good for the staff to see men having fun with hockey,” Nickel remarked. She has been helping with registration for the past four years and said that while there are always new faces, there are a lot of returnees. "The camaraderie builds with each year, and it’s not just on the ice. Families come and bring their kids, making it a nice day for all involved."

Based on the success of years past, Boschman said he would love to be able to get more ice time in the future. More ice time, equals more teams, which means a brand new audience. Allen adds that HMI Ontario would love to host a tournament at an additional sight, hopefully in the next few years. So, Laurie, who won this year’s Hockey Challenge? “We did.”

After last year’s victory by Williamsburg, Ottawa hung tough to bring home victory in 2008. And although the tournament is over until next year, true sports fans know there is no such thing as an off season. No place is this more true than HMI Ottawa. Next up? The annual golf outing on Wednesday, May 28th.
Better start working on your backswing.

Many thanks to Laurie Boschman, Paul Allen, and Darlene Nickel. For more information on HMI’s involvement in Ottawa and Ontario, check out their local site at www.hmiontario.com.

(April 22, 2008) Each week Hockey Ministries International will salute a Chaplain of the Week" in order to acknowledge our chaplains who volunteer their time and resources to serve the hockey world. Currently HMI has over 200 volunteer chaplains who are staging chapel programs in 22 professional and amateur leagues across North America and Europe.

Paul Huggins is the HMI chaplain for the Ontario Hockey League's Ottawa 67's, and has been working in Sports ministry for 12 years. While his current responsibilities are with the 67’s, Huggins has worked as a chaplain in the Canadian Football League, through Canadian Interuniversity Sport, in Major League Baseball, and at the National Team level.

Paul also provides leadership to the local University and Community ministries of Athletes In Action, specifically through sports camps and working as a chaplain for the University of Ottawa football team. Paul is passionate about helping people become authentic followers of Jesus Christ. He currently lives outside of Ottawa with his wife Nicolle, and two children, daughter Mackenzie and son Sam.

Hockey Ministries International does have some current openings for chaplains in certain cities, towns and communities. If you are interested in serving as an HMI chaplain or know someone who would be interested, please e-mail Don Liesemer Jr. at donjr@hockeyministries.org. Let us know where you live, and we will let you know if we have a need in your area.

(April 22, 2008) The 2008 Hockey Ministries International, Christian Hockey Camps International registration season is now in full swing. HMI has 31 weeks of hockey camps scheduled this summer to take place in seven different countries in North America and in Europe, including Canada, the United States, Sweden, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Switzerland.

With less than two months away from the start of the first 2008 HMI camp in Minnesota, overall camp registrations are up 20% from the 2007 camp season. Christy Liesemer, Hockey Ministries International's Director of Camp Programs, talked about the exciting growth of registrations so far this camp season. "We are encouraged about how things are coming together for the 2008 camp season," she said. "We've had a positive response from volunteers, and camps are filling up! We are especially excited about our new camp in Grande Prairie, Alberta, and the new location for our Toronto, Ontario camp which is Jackson's Point Salvation Army Camp."

Liesemer, along with Ottawa Senators' forward, Mike Fisher; and former Minnesota North Stars' defenseman Bill Butters share their experiences from their participation at HMI's Christian Hockey Camps International in the video linked below. After watching the video, prospective campers and their parents will have a much better idea of the solid curriculum and quality hockey instruction that HMI offers at each and every camp.

Christian Hockey Camps International feature high quality hockey instruction and practical training in Christian living as signature components at each and every camp. This curriculum proves to be a winning combination in preparing young athletes for challenges, both on and off the ice. Each day at camp, the devotional introduces the "game plan" for the day - a theme from the Hockey Player's Handbook. This theme is followed in the daily Christian value discussion when counselors meet with their groups and discuss a number of topics related to life's inevitable challenges. Finally, the evening chapel features a youth-oriented program of music, skits and inspirational talks by the pros.

Hockey skills from seven countries highlight the on-ice instruction which includes power skating, individual skills, team skills and special direction for goaltenders. Other activities include dry land training, sports and recreation, and Christian training, all staged in a friendly and nurturing environment.

For a complete list of 2008 camp locations, and registration information, click on the "Camps" link on the homepage of the HMI website. For additional information contact Hockey Ministries International through e-Mail at : camps@hockeyministries.org, by phone at (514) 395-1717 or by fax at (514) 394-9449.

Mailing Address: P.O. Box #7, Windsor Station, Suite 265, 1100 de la Gauchetiere W., Montreal, Quebec H3B 2S2


Group shot of gals from HMI's 2007 Minnesota girls' camp	"Happy Camper" from 2007 HMI Alaska camp reacts after scoring a goal during a training session	2007 Stanstead, Quebec campers get dressed for a challenging and fun on-ice session with the HMI pros.

Russ Reaves is the chaplain of the Southern Professional Hockey League's Twin City Cyclones in Winston Salem, North Carolina. Russ grew up as a hockey fan in North Carolina when various minor league teams made Winston Salem their home. As his parents entertained young hockey players in their home, Reaves got an early glimpse of what a chaplains' ministry to young hockey players could be. Please click on the link below to watch Russ' video of how he got involved as a hockey chaplain and HMI.

Russ currently serves as pastor of Immanuel Baptist Church in Greensboro, North Carolina. He also teaches history and science in his family's homeschool. Reaves graduated from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (M.Div.), Lancaster Bible College (B.S.), Fruitland Baptist Bible Institute (A.A.), and North Forsyth High School.

Reaves has taught courses in Paul's Epistles, Evangelism, and Church Administration at a local Bible College, and served as chaplain to the now defunct Winston-Salem Polar Twins pro hockey team (SPHL). Previously he served as pastor of Southern Baptist Churches in Conowingo, Maryland and Kernersville, North Carolina.

His interests include apologetics, and his favorite Christian authors are C.S. Lewis, John Piper, and G. Campbell Morgan. Sports wise Russ loves hockey, baseball, and football, and lists the Detroit Red Wings as his favorite NHL team, while the Boston Red Sox and Chicago Bears are his favorite baseball and football teams respectively. Russ is married and has two children.

Hockey Ministries International does have some current openings for chaplains in certain cities, towns and communities. If you are interested in serving as an HMI chaplain or know someone who would be interested, please e-mail Don Liesemer Jr. at donjr@hockeyministries.org. Let us know where you live, and we will let you know if we have a need in your area.

April 15, 2008) Each week Hockey Ministries International will salute a Chaplain of the Week" in order to acknowledge our chaplains who volunteer their time and resources to serve the hockey world. Currently HMI has over 200 volunteer chaplains who are staging chapel programs in 22 professional and amateur leagues across North America and Europe.

Dave Penner is the chaplain of the British Columbia Hockey League's Salmon Arm Silverbacks in Salmon Arm, British Columbia.

Dave discussed this past season's ministry to the Silverbacks. "I’ve had a great season serving with the Salmon Arm Silverbacks. The guys were very responsive to the chapel times as well as personal relationships. We do chapel every Tuesday right at the Arena. Volunteers from our church provide a home cooked meal which we deliver to the arena. We eat supper together after which I share a message and have a prayer time with the guys."

"For most of the year we were seeing about 85% turn out. The Silverbacks faced some interesting challenges this year with a change of ownership and a new GM / Head Coach coming in part way through the season. The changes gave me the opportunity to address some crucial life issues with the guys."

"Every year at Christmas we have a special banquet. This year we had a "Video Game Night" at our church along with it. I also give all of the rookies Bibles as a Christmas gift every year. They are always well received. We ended the year with another special banquet with Stu Grimson as our guest speaker. He had a good, clear message that was well received."

Dave has been married to his wife Wendy for 31 years. The Penners have three grown sons living in Burnaby and Nanaimo. Penner attends and is employed by Broadview Evangelical Free Church. Dave's favorite scripture verse is Ephesians 3:20 – 21. (20) "Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, (21) to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen."

Penner's hobbies include outside activities, camping, traveling, and reading. Please pray for Dave and for the Lord's continued blessing on his ministry to the Salmon Arm Silverbacks.

(April 11, 2008) Hockey Ministries International has had a long history of involvement in the hockey hotbed state of Minnesota. Former University of Minnesota Golden Gophers' player and NHL North Stars' defenseman, Bill Butters, has been on staff with HMI for 20 years, and is still leading the charge while serving the ministry in the state and also around the world. Former Minnesota high school and college coach, Whitey Aus, has retired from HMI, but still consults, helps out when needed, and prays for the outreach in his home state.

And now, there is a new guy on the scene in Minnesota. Max Erickson has grown up in the state known as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," and his work in the hockey world there is having an impact for God's Kingdom. Leading chapels for two high school teams, serving as chaplain for a Tier III Junior Hockey Team in the Twin Cities area, playing in a Christian men's hockey league in Minneapolis, and sharing Christ to Native Americans through Okontoe Sports Ministries, are some of the outreaches Erickson is active in.

Where did it all begin for Max? He was born in Minneapolis in a Christian home, and accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior at a very young age. As a youngster he began attending Hockey Ministries International's Minnesota youth hockey camp. As a teenager Max then played for his high school hockey team at Simley HS, and was team captain his senior year.

After high school, Erickson played for a Junior B hockey team in South St. Paul, Minnesota. That season is when Max suffered his first down "blip" on the radar screen of life. He began to drink for the first time in his life. He had succumbed to the peer pressure from his teammates, and he admits his faith was not strong enough at that period in his life to resist.


A CHURCH ON THE AKONTOE INDIAN RESERVATION IN NORTHERN ONTARIO	MAX STRIKES A POSE WITH A NATIVE AMERICAN HOCKEY PLAYER	YOUNG NATIVE AMERICAN HOCKEY PLAYERS LEARN THE GAME AT A CLINIC.

"It was a very tough environment and I could not resist the peer pressure," remarked Erickson. "I choose to be a part of the bad side of the hockey culture in drinking, and it took me five months to realize the error of my ways." God has since restored that part of my life and I have no desire to drink." His parents knew that something was up but did not know until he confessed. "I confessed to my parents and asked for their forgiveness. It was by far the hardest thing I ever had to do in my life."

Despite this setback, Max's hockey career was not over yet. He walked on to the Briercrest Bible College hockey team in Caronport, Saskatchewan, and played for longtime Head Coach, John Bechtold. His coach then at Briercrest, is now with Hockey Ministries International as the Regional Director for Alberta. However, injuries began to take their toll and Max was finally forced to end his collegiate career.

Fast forward to 2008 and you'll find Erickson beginning the transition to full time service with HMI. Max is heavily involved in HMI's annual youth hockey camp in Minnesota. And who would be better qualified. Erickson has invested 16 summers of his life with the Minnesota camp including six as a camper, seven as a counselor, and two as the camp's dryland instructor. This summer Max will serve as dryland coordinator again, while also helping out on the ice. "To see the changes that the Lord makes in the lives of these youngsters who attend our local HMI camp is incredible to see," quotes Erickson.

As a chaplain, Max leads chapels for two local Christian schools, Minnehaha Academy and Meadow Creek Christian Academy. He is also the chaplain for the Twin Cities Northern Lights, a Tier III Junior A team in the Minnesota Junior Hockey League.

Erickson has also faithfully involved himself in a special hockey ministry to Native Americans. Working with Okontoe Sports Ministries, Max recently traveled to Summer Beaver, Ontario back in February for a week with a Christian men's hockey team, who staged a hockey tournament for the Native American hockey teams there at the remote reservation. Max and his men also staged clinics for players of all ages, and had a wonderful week of building relationships. Most important, the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, the Gospel, was shared with these precious people!

Erickson currently works full time in Minneapolis for WSI Sports, a company specializing in sporting underarmor products. Through the generosity of his employer, Max is given time each week to pursue ministry opportunities for Hockey Ministries International in the Twin Cities area and state of Minnesota. The 27 year-old is in the transition process of coming on board with HMI full time in the next two to three years.

The Lord has been blessing Erickson's efforts in Minnesota, and it is clear that God has His hand on this fine Christian young man. Pray for Max for strength and guidance as he continues to answer God's call on his life in his ministry to the hockey world in Minnesota and other lands.

HMI'S "CHAPLAIN OF THE WEEK" BILL PARKS
QMJHL'S MONCTON WILDCATS - WEEK OF APRIL 7

(April 8, 2008) Each week Hockey Ministries International will salute a Chaplain of the Week" in order to acknowledge our chaplains who volunteer their time and resources to serve the hockey world. Currently HMI has over 200 volunteer chaplains who are staging chapel programs in 22 professional and amateur leagues across North America and Europe.

Bill Parks is the chaplain for the Quebec Major Junior league's Moncton Wildcats. He was born in Dartmouth Nova Scotia, and now lives in Moncton, New Brunswick. Parks has been connected to Hockey Ministries for the last ten years as a camp counselor, and it has been the joy of his life to connect young men with God and the great game of hockey.

For the past three years Parks has had the awesome privilege to be the chapel leader for the Moncton Wildcats of the QMJHL. It has been such a tremendous blessing for Bill to watch young men take time to spend with God and to be an encouragement to one another. One of the Wildcats' players spoke these words about chapel...... "Chapel provides a sort of safe haven where we can go and sort of get away from the stresses and temptations of our lives."

Bill is also preparing in the very near future to join the staff of Hockey Ministries International full time, and help serve the Atlantic Canada region. In the days ahead, Parks believes God will be calling him to expand the chapel ministry in Atlantic Canada to additional teams in the "Q," and to further promote the wonderful camp ministry that takes place each summer in New Brunswick. He is particularly looking forward to continuing to work along side his mentor and friend Bruce Smith, who is Atlantic Canada's Regional Director and a longtime HMI staffer.

Bill is married to Judy, and they have been together for 22 years. They have two amazing daughters, Lauren 15, and Kelsey 12, who are, of course, big Wildcats fan!

Hockey Ministries International does have some current openings for chaplains in certain cities, towns and communities. If you are interested in serving as an HMI chaplain or know someone who would be interested, please e-mail Don Liesemer Jr. at donjr@hockeyministries.org. Let us know where you live, and we will let you know if we have a need in your area.


One of several teams that participated in the 3 v3 Hockey Challenge in Newnmarket, Ontario gets set to take the ice.	HMI's Junior Hockey Chaplain and OHL/OHA Chapel Coordinator Jamie Ramer leads a discussion at the 3 v 3 Hockey Challenge	A game-action view from the back of the net at HMI's recent Elite Hockey Challenge in Newmarket, Ontario.


Honor Guard from the Canadian Armed Forces display Memorial Cup	The Spokane Chiefs, the Memorial Cup champs, take turns holding the winners' trophy.	Former NHL pros Mike Gartner and Mark Osborne sign autographs for a Memorial Cup Breakfast fan.


LLiberty Flames hockey team poses with a Swedish team after an exhibition game	Snowy Sweden in Januanry, 2008	Liberty players in Sweden