Game Reports 
and Team News

All-Time Player Stats Have Been Updated
Congratulations to Bulbuk, Eberline,  and Rousseau
4/6/04
This year's stats, and all-time player stats, are now up to date.  Special congratulations to:

Chaz Bulbuk

#2 overall in school history for total points,
#1 in total points this year, and #1 in penalty minutes too!  Way to go Chaz!

Mark Eberline

#1 in assists this season (21) and
#2 overall this season (28 pts)!
 

Steve Rousseau

#4 overall as a sophomore in school history
with 21 points!
 

Northville Hockey Falls to Trenton 5-3
Mustangs late rally not enough to stop power-house
3/12/04
The Northville Mustangs had their hopes for a Division II State Hockey Title dashed Thursday evening in a 5-3 loss to regional power-house Trenton.  At the CompuWare Sports Arena in Plymouth, Trenton had a commanding 4-0 lead early in the third period before Northville rallied.  But that rally, with goals from Nick Guerro, Joe Vitale, and Troy Engelland, wasn't enough to stop Trenton. 

Northville ends the season with an impressive 20-6-3 record, and Trenton moves on to meet Muskegon Mona Shores at 11:00 a.m. Saturday at CompuWare.

Also of local interest, the Milford Mavericks take on the Marquette Redmen in Division I semi-final action tonight at 6:00 p.m. at Compuware.
 

Mustangs Ride Into Hockey Semifinals
Northville soundly defeats Saline 6-1; Trenton up next
3/11/04
The Northville Mustangs edged past the Wildcats last week to earn the Regional title, and continued riding toward a Division II State title Tuesday with a resounding 6-1 victory over Saline.  The Mustangs take on regional powerhouse Trenton tonight at 6:00 p.m. at the CompuWare Sports Arena in Plymouth.

Also of local interest Milford defeated Port Huron Northern 5-4 in double-overtime last night to move into the semifinals.  The Mavericks take on the Marquette Redmen in Division I semifinal action Friday at 6:00 p.m. at the CompuWare Sports Arena.

Mustangs Catch Wildcats for Regional Title
Northville over Novi 5 - 3 for Regional Championship
3/5/04
The #2 ranked Northville Mustangs and the Novi Wildcats played some excellent hockey Friday evening in front of a packed crowd at the Novi Ice Arena, where standing room meant standing all the way around the boards.  It was the first time the two teams had met for a regional championship, and was the hard-hitting, defensive game many expected.  The Mustangs came away with the Regional Championship in a hard-fought three period battle, 5 - 3.

Northville scored ten minutes into the first period before Novi's Senior Captain John Janssens put one between the posts on a power play off a Chaz Bulbuk / Mark Eberline pass with less than a minute to go.

Play was delayed for about fifteen minutes before the second period started, as the officials noted poor ice conditions and had the ice resurfaced a second time.  When the teams did skate back on, Northville scored two unanswered goals, one at 13:33 and one at 0:46, to put the Mustangs ahead 3 - 1.

The Wildcats came out shooting in the third period, with Bulbuk getting his first of two goals less than a minute in off a Tom Ciaverilla pass.  Northville scored five minutes later.  Then, Bulbuk hit the back of the net with a bullet heard even above the very loud and crowded arena.  Tom Ciaverilla and Mario DeGrazia assisted.  Northville then scored their final goal on Novi's empty net to seal the Cat's fate, and move on the State Quarter-Final action next week in Lansing. 

State Finals are next weekend at the Compuware Sports Arena in Plymouth.
 

Wildcats Win 2nd Regional Game
Northville also wins; big game Friday
3/4/04
The Hockey Wildcats defeated the Waterford Kettering Captains 5 - 2 Wednesday evening at the Novi Ice Arena on a very strong performance by the sophomore class.  Sophomore Tom Ciaverilla had three points, and Ryan Fox scored two goals in the victory.  Senior Chaz Bulbuk had two goals against the Captains.  Novi defeated the Captains last year 2 - 1 to win the Regional Championship in a game where Bulbuk also had two goals.

Waterford scored just 1:26 into the game on a power play.  That lead didn't last long though, as Ciaverilla scored for the Wildcats 3 minutes later off a Bulbuk pass, getting one past what many thought to be one of the toughest goalies in the region.  Ryan Fox scored a couple minutes later off a Mario DeGrazia pass on a power play to put the Wildcats ahead, where they would remain for the rest of the game.  Zack Flavin also notched an assist on those goals, while maintaining a strong defense for Novi.

In the second period, the Fox scored again, this time with an assist from Mark Eberline and Chris Zarem.  Waterford scored 16 seconds later on a penalty-shot, but Bulbuk answered back off a Ciaverilla pass to preserve Novi's lead, making the score 4-2 after two periods of play.

In the third period, the action was very fast as the Captains struggled to gain momentum on the Wildcats.  Bulbuk scored once again off a Ciaverilla pass, sealing the Captains fate.  Final score: Novi 5, Waterford Kettering 2.

Novi goalie Dan Morrison, a guy who always handles pressure well, played like an old pro. 

Sophomore Steve Rousseau played a great game, pushing the Captains around and jumping past attempted checks several times to retain control of the puck, and the game.  The Fox was unstoppable, and was still flying down the ice at full-speed even after three tough periods of action.  With Sophomores like Rousseau, Fox and Ciaverilla around, the Wildcats are going to be a force to be reckoned with for the next couple years!

Also at the Novi Ice Arena Wednesday evening, the Northville Mustangs defeated Walled Lake Central in a hard-fought 3-1 game, setting the stage for a Baseline rivalry for the Regional Championship for the first time in the program's history.  Game time is 7:00 p.m. Friday at the Novi Ice Arena.
 

Wildcats Head to Round 2 of Regionals
Novi Hockey looks toward 5th regional title in a row
3/3/04
The Wildcats head to Round 2 of Regionals tonight, as they take on Waterford Kettering at the Novi Ice Arena.  Face-off is scheduled for 8:00 p.m.  The Cats defeated the Livonia Franklin Patriots Monday to earn the spot in tonight's big game.

Novi has won their region the past four years -- of the five year program.  Last year, Novi defeated Waterford Kettering 2-1 in a very exciting and well played game to win the Regional Championship.  Chaz Bulbuk scored both Wildcat goals in that game.

Before Novi's game tonight, the Cat's Baseline rivals, the Northville Mustangs, take on Walled Lake in a 6:00 p.m. game.  The winners of tonight's games meet Friday at 6:30 p.m. at the Novi Ice Arena to decide this year's Regional Champion.
 

Wildcats Defeat Livonia 6 - 4 in Regionals
Northville also wins; both teams play again Wednesday
3/2/04
The Hockey Wildcats defeated the Livonia Franklin Patriots 6-4 Monday evening at the Novi Ice Arena to move on to Round 2 of Regionals.  Novi showed their depth once again, with 5 different Cats scoring those goals.  Brett Jaussi and Chaz Bulbuk lead the team with three points each.

Novi got off to a fast start, scoring three goals in two minutes in the first period.  Mark Eberline started the barrage at 11:23 of the first period.  Bulbuk added another goal, and Jaussi scored 32 seconds later.  The first period ended 3-1 as the Patriots managed to sneak one past Novi net-minder Dan Morrison.

In the second period, Tom Ciaverilla started things off, followed by unanswered goals from Chris Zarem and a second goal from Jaussi. 
 
Livonia Franklin took over in the third period, scoring two quick goals, and one goal on a net scramble near the end of the game.

Morrison was solid in net, and made several amazing saves to preserve Novi's victory -- twice on what looked to be sure-thing Patriot breakaways.  Bulbuk and Nate White each had two assists in the victory.

Novi moves on to meet Waterford Kettering Wednesday.   Game time is 7:45 p.m. at the Novi Ice Arena.

Also in action Monday at the Novi Ice Arena, the Northville Mustangs defeated Walled Lake Western 9-0.  Northville moves on to meet Walled Lake Central Wednesday at 5:30 p.m.

The winners of those games meet Friday for the regional championship.  Face-off is 6:30 p.m.

Wildcats Sink Pirates (Again) 8 - 0
Cats head to Regionals on good note
2/28/04 by Kevin Clay
Wildcat Hockey played the Pinckney Pirates for the second time in three days, with the same result both days.  On Wednesday, the Cats led off with a goal 10 seconds after the face-off, and never looked back earning an 11 - 0 win.

On Friday, the Cats had seven different goal scorers, and multiple point getters, earning an 8 - 0 win over the Pirates.  Dan Morrison faced 24 shots and stopped them all, shutting out the Pirates twice in a row.  Novi fired 36 shots on the opposing net-minder.  R.J Makowski came back from an injury suffered in the Mona Shores game, and Ryan Fox will be back Monday after serving a two game suspension.

The Cats play Livonia Franklin on Monday, in the first round of the Regional tournament.

Wildcats Sink Pirates 11-0 in 2 Periods
Novi plays one of their best games of year
2/26/04
The Wildcats devastated and sunk the Pinckney Pirates with a salvo of shots, and goals, that started just 10 seconds into the game and continued relentlessly until the game was mercied after two periods of play.  It was one of the best and smoothest games the Cats have played in recent memory.

Chaz Bulbuk came off the opening face-off, shooting a cannonball that would sink any ship, and it went right past the Pirates goalie to put Novi ahead just 10 seconds into the game.  Minutes later, John Janssens scored his first of three goals in front of family who came from as far as Chicago to see the big senior in action.  Twenty seconds later he scored again, both times off Brett Jaussi passes.  Tom Ciaverilla scored a minute later, and the first period volley ended with another Janssen's goal to make it 5 - 0 Novi after 15 minutes of play.

In the second period, Steve Rousseau scored less than a minute in, followed by goals from Mark Eberline, Zach Flavin, Ryan Dixon and Jaussi to seal the game.  The game was called for mercy after two periods.

Senior goalie Dan Morrison stopped several Pinckney scoring opportunities to earn the shut-out on Senior Recognition Night.

The Wildcats head to Hartland to take on the Pirates in a makeup game Friday.

Wildcats Tie Eagles 1 - 1
Goaltending saves Lakeland
2/22/04
The Wildcats and Eagles skated to a 1 - 1 tie Saturday evening at Lakeland, thanks to some superb goaltending by the Eagles net-minder.  Novi out-shot Lakeland 34-10, and the guys "played a superb and aggressive game," noted Coach Phelps following the contest.

Lakeland's only goal, in the first period, was a lucky bounce off the pads of Novi's Justin Ruccolo.  Brett Jaussi answered back for the Cats in the second period off Zach Flavin / Steve Rousseau passes to make it a 1 - 1 hockey game.  Ruccolo "went the distance and played well," noted Phelps.

The Wildcats take on Pinckney Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at the Novi Ice Arena.  That's also Senior Recognition Night, with a brief ceremony following the first period.

Wildcats, Mavericks Skate to 5-5 Tie
John Janssens scores two big goals
2/19/04
The Wildcats found themselves down 2 - 0 to the Mavericks after two periods of play at Milford Wednesday evening.  That's when Senior Captain John Janssens decided he'd seen enough.  He scored twice in twenty seconds, both times of Zach Flavin passes, to even things up.  Chaz Bulbuk and Mark Eberline also notched assists on those goals.

Brett Jaussi scored off a Ryan Dixon / Tom Ciaverilla pass to give the Wildcats the lead for the first time.  The Mavericks came back with another goal to tie things up once again.  Then, Mario DeGrazia scored to put the Cats ahead.  Chaz Bulbuk put one between the posts to give Novi a two point lead with minutes to go.

The Mavericks would not have it end that way on their home ice.  They managed to score two goals late in the third period, putting on a tremendous effort to regain their lead.  The game ended in a hard-fought 5 - 5 tie.

It was Dixon's first game back after an extended injury.  The Cats have been plagued with injuries this season, often skating with an entire line watching from the stands.

The Wildcats next take on the Lakeland Eagles Saturday morning.  Face-off is 5:45 p.m. at the Lakeland Arena (located at the entrance to the Oakland County Airport).  Next Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. is Senior Night, and the final regular season home game, as the Wildcats take on the Pinckney Pirates.

Thanks to Mr. Roger Jaussi for the game details.
 

Wildcats Fall to East Grand Rapids 3-1
It was a game closer than the score indicates
2/15/04
The Wildcats traveled to East Grand Rapids Saturday, but fell in what was quite likely one of the best Cat performances of the season.  It was also clearly the best performance to date from first year varsity goalie Justin Ruccolo, who stopped 33 shots on net.

After two score-less periods, Mark Eberline scored on a power-play goal to give Novi a 1 - 0 lead.  Then, with less than two minutes to play in the game, East Grand Rapids scored on a net scramble.  A minute later, they managed another goal.  Novi pulled Ruccolo, and East Grand Rapids scored on the empty net to take home the 3 - 1 victory.

Coach Smith noted after the game, "We had the best performance from the kids all season against another strong and talented opponent. The game possessed great skating, passing and hitting at both ends of the ice. The highlight of our great effort was the net minding of Justin Ruccolo who faced 33 shots. Outstanding goal tending. It was unbelievable."


Wildcats Ice Hartland Eagles 7 - 1
Novi gets win skating a line short; Janssens hat-trick
2/12/04
The Wildcat Hockey Squad, skating a line short, devastated the Hartland Eagles 7-1 in a game where everything went right for the Cats, and wrong for the Eagles.  Captain John Janssens notched a hat-trick and 4 total points to lead the team.  Brett Jaussi had 3 points before leaving the game injured in the third period.  18 penalties kept the boxes busy.  In January, Novi also defeated Hartland, 5- 1.

Novi started on the board with a Janssens power play goal four minutes into the game.  It was the only goal in the first period, and it wasn't until late in the second period that Jaussi scored, followed a minute later by another Janssens goal, to make it 3 - 0 Novi after two.

In the third period, Hartland came out looking for a point and managed to get one past Novi net-minder Dan Morrison two minutes in.  Less than a minute later, Ryan Fox answered back.  That was followed by Janssens third goal, then one from Mario DeGrazia.  Zack Flavin scored the final Novi goal by bouncing the puck off the boards, and right past Hartland's goalie, who stood in frustrated amazement at what had just happened.

Steve Rousseau, Chris Zarem and DeGrazia all had two points in the game.

The Wildcats have been plagued with injuries this season.  In addition to Jaussi leaving the game, Bryan Ellis, Ryan Dixon, RJ Makoski, and Chaz Bulbuk were all watching from the bleachers.  And those guys make up one big Novi line!

Novi travels to East Grand Rapids for a game Saturday, then to Milford next Wednesday.
 

The Road Less Traveled
Bernie writes of Wildcat Hockey
2/10/04
Don't miss Bernie's Speaking of Sports article this week!

Hockey Cats Fall to U of D Jesuit 5 - 0
Cats lose 5th in a row; Ruccolo faces 28 shots
2/8/04  by Kevin Clay
The Cats took on yet another tough team on Saturday, facing off against U of D Jesuit, where the Cats suffered their 5th loss in a row with a score of 5 - 0.

This game marked the third road game in a row for the Cats, and the first time they've been shutout all season. They mustered up 12 shots on goal against two U of D net minders, against U of D's 28 shots on Wildcat Goalie Justin Ruccolo.  Penalties also plagued the Cats, who had 9 penalties and 1 ten minute misconduct, as opposed to Jesuit's 7 penalties and 1 major.

The Cats are now 7 - 11 overall, as they take on Hartland at home on Wednesday.  Game time is 6:30.


Lions Catch Hockey Wildcats 4 - 3
Novi skates with several players on the sidelines
2/5/04
The Wildcats took on the South Lyon Lions at the Kensington Valley Ice House Wednesday evening, and came home with a 4-3 loss.  It was a close game right to the end, with both teams working very hard for a win.

Scoring for Novi was Brett Jaussi, Mark Eberline and John Janssens.  Eric Kuptz had two assists.  Jaussi, Eberline and Janssens each had a two-point game.  Dan Morrison handled the net for the Cats, facing 23 shots on goal for the evening.

Not skating were Chaz Bulbuk, RJ Makoski, Pat Meyer, Bryan Ellis and Ryan Dixon.  Big forward Mario DeGrazia moved back to defense to shore up the line weakened by injuries.  Big defenseman Jordan Collins left the team in December to play junior hockey in Iowa.

On Saturday, the Wildcats will take on the University of Detroit Jesuit High School at the City Ice Arena in Detroit.  Game time has been changed to 5:30 p.m.
 

Hockey Wildcats Fall to AA Pioneer 9-1
Novi has tough week playing the #1 and #2 teams
1/30/04  State Rankings
It was a tough week for the Wildcats, skating without key players, and taking on the #1 and #2 ranked Division I teams in the state back-to-back.  The Hockey Wildcats traveled to the "Cube" in Ann Arbor Friday evening, but fell to #2 state-ranked ranked Ann Arbor Pioneer 9-1.

Ann Arbor Pioneer's goalie, J. Kyllioinen, a Finnish exchange student, made 24 saves, stopped 3 break-aways and as Coach Smith noted after the game "made numerous circus type stops against our power play."  Mario DeGrazia scored for the Wildcats, unassisted on a break-away with 45 seconds to go, to break Kyllioinen's shut-out.
 
The Wildcats are now 4 - 4 in conference action, and 7 - 9 overall after a difficult two weeks that included some of the top hockey talent in the state, as well as the absence of several key players due to injuries.  Novi is on the road next week at South Lyon, then at the University of Detroit Jesuit High School.
 

Wildcats Out-Skated by Bulldogs 7-3
Brighton ranked #1 in state by Coaches Association
1/29/04
The #1 ranked Brighton Bulldogs out-skated the Wildcats on Novi's home ice Wednesday evening to take home a 7-3 victory.  It was a scrappy game marked with penalties on both sides of the red line.  Brighton managed 6 penalties in the first two periods, and the game got even rougher after that.

Novi started on the board first as John Janssens slid one between the posts less than two minutes into the game on a Wildcat power play off an Eric Cunningham pass.  It was only 10 seconds later that the Bulldogs managed to score, as a bouncing puck took a bad hop over the stick of Novi goalie Dan Morrison.  Brighton scored again before Brett Jaussi answered on yet another power play off another Cunningham pass.  Brighton scored once more to make it a 3-2 hockey game after one.

In the second period, Brighton scored twice more before Chaz Bulbuk slammed one into the net off a Steve Rousseau pass.  It was 5-3 Brighton after two periods of action.  In the third, Brighton scored twice to make it a 7-3 game.

Novi played Wednesday without two big defensemen, as RJ Makoski and Byran Ellis were both sidelined with injuries.  Novi's other big defenseman, Jordan Collins, left the team last month to play junior hockey in Iowa.  Dan Morrison handled the net for all three periods, stopping the Bulldogs in their tracks again and again.

Two weeks ago, it was Brighton and Novi cleaning up Michigan's Upper Peninsula, as both teams went undefeated against Hancock and Calumet -- two very old hockey power houses from very old hockey towns.
 

Wildcats Fall to Muskegon Sailors 5 - 2
Muskegon Mona Shores the team to defeat this year
1/24/04
The Hockey Wildcats faced the 10-1-1 Muskegon Mona Shores Sailors Friday evening at the Novi Ice Arena.  It was one of the fastest paced games in recent memory, with the Sailors managing to score two goals in the first period, then two in the second before the Wildcats put two between the posts late in the second.  Brett Jaussi scored both those goals off Mario DeGrazia passes just a minute apart.  The Sailors scored their final goal on an empty Wildcat net.

It was a tough game for the Cats, with several key players out.  Not skating were Chaz Bulbuk, Bryan Ellis, and Ryan Dixon.  Big defenseman R.J. Makoski left the game injured and did not return.  Dan Morrison and Justin Ruccolo shared the net, and both made several great saves against some great Sailor attempts.

Novi's record is now 7 - 7 overall, and 4 - 3 in conference action.  The Cats take on the Brighton Bulldogs Wednesday at the Novi Ice Arena.  Face-off time is 6:30 p.m.
 

New Photos from Hancock on the Photo Page
Thank you, Mr. Ruccolo
1/24/04
There are several new photos from the Hancock game on the Photo Page today.

Wildcats Down Highlanders 6-5
Steve Rousseau scores two big goals
1/20/04
The Highlanders came down to Novi Monday evening, and the Wildcats gave them quite a battle.  After three solid periods of fast-paced hockey action, Novi was victorious with a 6 - 5 win.  It was Sophomore Steve Rousseau who scored the those two final, big, game winning goals for Novi.

Senior Chaz Bulbuk lead the team with five points for the night, including two goals, and was all over Howell.  Mark Eberline had a goal and added three assists, and Ryan Fox put one between the posts.  Captain John Janssens notched two assists.  Senior goalie Dan Morrison handled the net, stopping 21 of 26 shots.

The Cats are off until Friday, when they take on Muskegon at the Novi Ice Arena.  Face-off is 7:30 p.m.
 

Wildcat Hockey Loses to Mavericks 5  - 1
Novi starts off strong, but has a rough finish
1/18/04
The Wildcats took on the Milford Mavericks Friday evening at the Novi Ice Arena.  It was their first game since the 1,000 mile, tournament winning Upper Peninsula road trip last weekend, but this time the Cats ended up on the losing side of the score board.

After those two big wins in the U.P. Old Hockey Towns, the Cats started off strong with a Chaz Bulbuk power play goal to take a 1 - 0 lead after the first period.  Milford came back with a vengeance, scoring two goals in the second period, and two in the third.  Milford hit Novi's empty net to make it 5 - 1 in the end.
 

Game Cancelled
1/15/04
Wednesday's game vs. Pinckney was cancelled due to weather conditions.
 

Wildcats Catch Calumet 5-1
Novi sweeps da U.P.
1/11/04  PHOTOS
The Wildcats played a hard, physical game against the Calumet Copper Kings Saturday evening, and came away with a solid 5 - 1 victory.  In the heart of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, the Cats did what no Novi team has done before -- beat the Yoopers on their own ice and win the Michigan Classic Tournament.

Calumet started off scoring in the first period.  But it was only 7 seconds into the second period when Brett Jaussi evened things up off a Mario DeGrazia pass.  From there, it was all Novi as Chaz Bulbuk and DeGrazia scored to make it 3 - 1 Novi after two periods.

In the third, Novi's defense clamped down on the Copper Kings, as DeGrazia added another goal.  Eric Kuptz sealed Calumet's fate with the final goal to make it 5 - 1 Novi.

Senior goalie Dan Morrison was awesome in net, stopping 19 of 20 shots to ensure the Wildcat's victory.  John Janssens had two assists, and RJ Makoski and Tom Ciaverilla each had one.  DeGrazia lead the team with three points.

Calumet won the state championship last season, and has a very long history of quality hockey.  In fact, this region is said to be the home of organized professional hockey in America.

The Cats take the 500 mile road-trip home today, and take the ice again Wednesday at the KVIH vs. Pinckney, then Friday at Novi vs. Milford.
 

Novi Defeats Hancock 4 - 1 on the Road
New hockey vs. old in the heart of the Michigan's U.P.
1/9/04
Usually when Novi plays the Bulldogs, it's a 15 mile drive to Brighton.  This week, the Wildcats traveled 500 miles north for some old-hockey-town action, and Friday night they won big.  Novi downed the Hancock Bulldogs 4 - 1 at Houghton, one of the oldest hockey towns in America. The Bulldogs won the state championship in 1999 and finished last season with a 22-3 record. 

With the depth of the Wildcats this season, you never know where the goals are going to come from.  Friday was no exception as four different Cats scored.  Greg Morisette started the Cats off, scoring from a Tom Ciaverilla pass.  Brett Jaussi, RJ Makoski, and Chaz Bulbuk added three more to give the Wildcats the victory.  Ciaverilla had two assists for the evening.  Teams leaders Bryan Ellis and John Janssens also recorded assists.

First year varsity goalie Justin Ruccolo handled the net like an old veteran.  "Ruccolo was stellar in net making a number of huge saves," said Coach Zarem following the game.

The Keweenaw Peninsula region of Michigan's U.P. has been hockey-rich since the early 1900s -- well before there were Detroit Red Wings, and just after Native Americans left the Novi area.  Hancock High School has been around since 1869.  Novi's ice arena is only six years old, as is the hockey program at Novi High School.

Saturday evening, the Wildcats take on Calumet at Calumet -- another old hockey town.
 

Wildcats Down Eagles 5 - 1 at KVIH
Novi's solid victory gets them ready for a big road trip
1/8/03
The Hockey Cats downed the Hartland Eagles 5 - 1 at the Kensington Valley Ice House Wednesday evening.  Hartland's only goal was on a power play. 

Novi played a solid game in all three zones, and Senior goalie Dan Morrison was solid in net.  Novi's goals, one in the first, and two each in the second and third periods, where scored by five different Cats. 

Scoring for Novi was John Janssens in the first period, Eric Cunningham and Nate White in the second, and Brett Jaussi and Chaz Bulbuk in the third.  It was White's first Varsity goal.  Mario DeGrazia notched two assists.

The Wildcats have a long weekend ahead of them, as they make the 500 mile journey to the tip of Michigan's Upper Peninsula for some old-hockey-town action against Hancock and Calumet this Friday and Saturday.
 

Wildcats Over Mustangs 4 - 2
Four Cats score; Bulbuk notches 3 points
12/20/03 by Kevin Clay
The Cats came out fired up in a big Friday night game against baseline rival Northville.  Novi put 30 shots on goal, with 4 of them finding the net, while the defense held the Stangs at bay for 2 1/2 periods of play.

It was Jordan Collins, coming back from injury, who put Novi on the board first with a pass from Zach Flavin. Ryan Fox found the back of the net exactly two minutes later, on a Mark Everline / Chaz Bulbuk pass with 6:42 left in the 1st period.  And Chaz Bulbuk's goal with 2:59 left in the 1st, proved to be the last goal in the first two periods of play, as Novi headed to the 3rd period up 3 - 0.

After a scoreless 2nd period, Brett Jaussi finished off a pass from Chaz Bulbuk and Ryan Fox early in the 3rd period.  Though Northville snuck in two goals in the last six minutes of the game, it wasn't enough, as Novi won 4 - 2.

Novi's next game is at Hartland at 6:00 p.m. on the first Wednesday after break.
 

Wildcats Catch Lions 8 - 3
Janssens and Bulbuk notch hat-tricks; Ruccolo solid
12/18/03
The Wildcats came out shooting Wednesday evening at the Novi Ice Arena, punishing the South Lyon Lions 8 - 3.  Seniors John Janssens and Chaz Bulbuk led the team, each earning a hat-trick in the game, and Mark Eberline notched 4 points.

Chaz Bulbuk started the first period off a Mark Eberline / Steve Rousseau pass.  That frustrated the Lions, allowing Novi two power play goals just a minute apart, both from John Janssens.  South Lyon scored to close the first period 3 - 1 Novi.

Freshman Alex Malott started the second period, tipping in a beauty from a RJ Makoski shot to earn his first Varsity goal.  South Lyon managed to sneak one in before Novi answered back with three more goals -- two from Bulbuk and one from Janssens.  Bulbuk fired his third goalie-punisher so hard, it's doubtful even Dominik Hasek would have had a chance to stop it.

South Lyon scored at 5:07 of the third period, and Mario DeGrazia notched Novi's 8th and final goal off a Zack Flavin pass to give Novi the victory.

Novi's defense was strong, with Bryan Ellis, RJ Makoski and Zack Flavin all over the Lions.  First year Varsity goalie Justin Ruccolo was solid in net, stopping the Lions in their tracks.  Collins and Dixon were out with injuries.

Novi's next game -- a big one -- is against Northville Friday evening at the Novi Ice Arena.  Game time is 6:25 p.m.
   

Brighton Over Novi 4 - 1
Bulldogs catch Cats at the Ice House
12/11/03
At the Kensington Valley Ice House, the Bulldogs of Brighton and the Novi Wildcats met for the first time this season Wednesday evening.  After a cold and scoreless first period, things really heated up.

Brighton got on the board at 13:54 of the second period.  Novi answered back a few minutes later as RJ Makoski passed a beauty to Chaz Bulbuk.  Brighton closed the second period with another goal to make it 2 - 1 Brighton after 2 periods of play.  In the third period, Brighton scored two unanswered goals to make it 4 - 1 in the end.
 

Wildcats Down Eagles 7 - 1
Novi gets big win at home vs. Lakeland
12/9/03
The Wildcats were firing on all cylinders to down the Lakeland Eagles 7 -1 at the Novi Ice Arena Monday evening.  Although it was Novi's first win of the season, they played like veterans for three solid periods. 

Novi started off strong with 5 goals in the first period. Novi's own Brett Hull, Chaz Bulbuk, started things off a John Janssens pass.  Pat Meier scored his first Wildcat career goal, followed by three from Chris Zarem, Mark Eberline and Mario DeGrazia.

After a scoreless second period, Bulbuk put another between the posts in the third.  Greg Morisette and Brett Jaussi finished the third period with two more for the Cats to make it 7 - 1 Novi. 

Justin Ruccolo played an excellent game in net, and kept the Eagles at bay throughout.  Mark Eberline and Steve Rousseau lead the team with 3 points each.

Novi's next game is against Brighton Wednesday at the Kensington Valley Ice House.
 

Wildcat Hockey Loses 4 - 3 to Highlanders
Novi loses another close one to Howell
12/5/03
The Hockey Wildcats have had several close calls so far this season.  Unfortunately, they've been on the losing side each time.  Novi lost 4 - 3 to the Highlanders at Howell Wednesday evening.

The first period was all Novi, as the Wildcats notched three goals.  Bryan Ellis started things off on a pass from Mark Eberline and Chris Zarem.  Tom Ciaverilla scored a couple minutes later, and Steve Rousseau scored a third Novi goal on a power play.

Howell came back strong in the second period, scoring twice, and again twice in the third period -- two power play goals.  The final score: Howell 4 - Novi 3.
 

Wildcat Hockey Loses Close One 3 - 2
Brother Rice wins nail-biter in a chippy game
11/27/03
The Wildcat Hockey Squad came up one goal short Wednesday evening at the Novi Ice Arena in a chippy game marked by several penalties.  That one goal looked quite possible, as the Wildcats skated down the last minute with a two-man advantage after pulling the goalie.  But Brother Rice's solid defense and some amazing goaltending held the Cats at bay.

Brother Rice started the game at 9:00 of the first period when, after several unsuccessful attempts and some great work by goalie Dan Morrison, they popped a rebound up into the right corner of Novi's net.  Then again, at 5:52 of the first, Brother Rice scored by pulling Morrison to the left and hitting the right corner.  That made it 2 - 0 Brother Rice after one period.

The second period was all Novi's as the Wildcats dominated Brother Rice, and Jordan Collins notched two goals.  The first, at 10:53, was a Jordan Collins power play special.  Collins out-skated two Brother Rice players for a loose puck near their blue line, skated around a third man, and hit the back of the net on the right side.  Then, at 5:03, Collins and Mark Eberline skated down the center of the ice toward an undefended Brother Rice net.  Eberline passed the puck to Collins at the last minute, and Collins placed it on that same right side.  It was a 2 - 2 tie after two periods.

In the third, Brother Rice scored at 11:59 on a rebound to take the lead again.  The Wildcats fought back the rest of the period, and skated with a two-man advantage twice, but just couldn't get it past Brother Rice's goalie.  The game ended 3 - 2 Brother Rice.

Play of the game:  It wasn't Collins two amazing goals, it was Steve Rousseau dumping a Brother Rice player over his back -- a player about twice Steve's size.  Looked like BR stopped trying to check Steve after that one.
 

Wildcat Hockey Loses Two Games
Novi tournament showcases area's top hockey talent
11/24/03
Fans were treated to some great hockey action over the past weekend, as the Wildcats started their 2003 - 2004 season at the Novi Ice Arena by playing in the Metro High School Hockey Invitational Friday and Saturday.  Livonia Stevenson, Northville and Farmington Unified played in the four-game tournament.

Friday evening, in what looked to be a close game that was 2 - 1 Livonia after two periods of play, the Cats ended up on the losing side of a 4 - 1 game.  Mario DeGrazia scored that Wildcat goal on a pass from Brett Jaussi.  On Saturday, Novi fell to cross-town rival Northville 2 - 1 in a close game on a goal from Chris Zarem off Steve Rousseau.  Livonia Stevenson went on to win the tournament, defeating Farmington Unified 5 - 0 Saturday evening.

Wednesday, the Hockey Cats take on Brother Rice at the Novi Ice Arena.  Face-off time is 6:25 p.m.
 

Individual Player Profiles are Now On-Line
Photos courtesy of Mr. Ellis
11/19/03
The individual player profiles are now on-line, and can be accessed from the Team Roster page.  Photos are courtesy of Mr. Ellis.  Please email Scott with any changes to the profiles.
 

Metro Invitational This Weekend at Novi
Second annual meeting of some of areas top teams
11/18/03
The Metro Hockey Invitational takes place this Friday and Saturday at the Novi Ice Arena.  Novi takes on Livonia Stevenson at 6:00 p.m. Friday.  Northville meets defending champion Farmington at 8:30 p.m.  On Saturday, the two losing teams play at 5:00 p.m., and the two winning teams at 7:30 p.m.
 

Skate with the Cats Friday at Novi Ice Arena
Free scrimmage and skate; souvenirs too...
11/3/03
The Novi Varsity Hockey program would like to invite all of our fans and supporters to spend an evening and “Skate with the Cat’s”.  On Friday, November 7, 2003, the Varsity Hockey Team will be hosting an open skate for all fans to come and meet the 2003-2004 Wildcat Hockey Team up-close and in person. The event will take place from 7:30 – 9:00 p.m.

Prior to the skate, please come and see the 2003-2004 varsity hockey team compete in the first annual Green and White Game; an intra-squad scrimmage.  The “GREEN AND WHITE GAME” begins at 6:00 p.m. with the “Skate with the Cats” to follow the game.

Admission to the entire evening is FREE OF CHARGE. All guest will receive a free “Wildcat Varsity Hockey” souvenir as our thanks for joining us on this night as we kick off our 2003-2004 season.  We look forward to seeing all of you on this exciting night!

 
Where Are They Now?
Website directory needs current information
10/17/03
Attention former Wildcats, and Wildcat fans!  We are updating the Where Are They Now page on this website.  Please email Scott your current information, and information on anyone else you know.
 

Team Try-Outs Scheduled; Schedule Coming
2003 - 2004 Season is Upon Us
10/17/03
Attention Novi hockey fans!  It's that time of year!
The 2003 - 2004 season is upon us!

Monday, Wednesday and Friday of next week is off-ice conditioning -- meet at the school at 4:30 p.m. each day;
all are welcome. Tuesday and Thursday is on-ice conditioning at the Novi Ice Arena each day at 2:30 p.m. at the Novi Ice Arena. There is a $15 fee for on-ice.

Team try-outs are scheduled for Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, October 27, 28, and 29 at 2:30 p.m. at
the Novi Ice Arena.

The first game is a scrimmage on November 7th at 6pm.  The Cats then take on County Day for a scrimmage on November 13th at 7pm.

Student athletes must have a physical form on file to participate in any activity.
 

Congratulations to Golf Cats!
Eberline and Jaussi two of the top golfers in the state
10/15/03
Congratulations to Novi Hockey's two Top Golf Cats!  Mark Eberline and Brett Jaussi both placed in the final four at regionals last week, and will be going to the state meet this Friday and Saturday at Grand Valley State.  Best wishes to Mark and Brett, and to the rest of the Golf Cats as they defend their 2002 state championship.
 
 

Wildcat Hockey 2nd Annual Golf Outing
Monday, 8/11 is the day to mark on your calendar -- today!
7/28/03  Details
The Novi High School Wildcat hockey organization announces the 2nd Annual Hockey Golf Outing. This premier event is slated for Monday, August 11 in support of one of Michigan's premiere high school hockey organizations.  Click here for details.
 

Novi Wild Try-Outs Scheduled
New coach comes to the Wild this season
7/10/03
Try-outs for the 2003 - 2004 Novi Wild Team will be held at the Novi Ice Arena as follows:
  August 2  5-6.30pm
  August 3  6-7.30pm
  August 9  5-6.30pm
  August 10  7-8.30pm

The Novi Wild announce that Coach George Yelich will be taking over for the coming season.  Coach Yelich has considerable experience at the high school and midget level.
 

Conditioning Skates
7/7/03
The Novi Varsity Hockey Program will be having open skills and conditioning skates on Tuesday, July 29, 2003 from 8:00p.m.-10:00p.m. and Thursday, July 31, 2003 from 7:00p.m.-9:00p.m. at the Novi Ice Arena The skates are open to any players who are going to be registered students for the 2003-2004 school year. The conditioning skates will be limited to the number of players. For sign - up information, please e-mail powercathockey@yahoo.com .

Wildcats -- Built Novi Tough
Wildcats highlighted in Speaking of Sports
6/17/03  Column
Don't miss Bernie Fratto's column this week, where he explains why the Wildcats are built Novi tough.
 

Wildcat and Wild Hockey Dominate Auto Show
Both teams pick up "wins," dominating auto show
5/30/03
The Varsity Wildcats and the Wild both picked up several wins in the annual Novi High School Auto Show.  The winners were:
  - Evan Lukas, 2nd Place - Late Model Truck
  - Eric Cunningham, 1st Place - Beater Ride
  - Andrew Marsoupian, 1st Place - Modified Vehicle
  - Jared Perras, 1st Place - Daddy's Car
  - Garret Malott, 1st Place - People's Choice
 

Novi Varsity Hockey Coach Wins Big
Coach Gagnon wins in net -- national title by shutout
4/12/03
Novi Varsity Hockey Assistant Coach Dennis Gagnon is the school's goalie coach, and he knows the job well.  Coach Gagnon's Detroit State Utility swept past the Mosinee Papermakers 3-0 in the championship game of the Adult U.S. National Championships in Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin recently.  It's the third national title for the team.  "It was a total team effort. The forwards pushed hard, and our defense was phenomenal today," Coach Gagnon told USA Hockey.
 

Novi Middle School Hockey Exhibition
Tomorrow's varsity stars learn from alumni and coaches
4/5/03  Photo
The fourth annual Middle School Green and White game was played Friday evening at the Novi Ice Arena.  30 youths, coached by varsity alumni and Novi High School's varsity coaching staff, competed in the friendly match.  The game was the cumulation of a week's training.  The result?  A 13-13 tie -- on some questionable calls!  

The game was refereed by varsity alumn Justin Harvey, and coached by Brad Zarem, Travis Malott, Garet Malott, Justin Collins and Dan Szlaga.  Photo courtesy of Doral Jones.
 

Wildcats Selected to All-Area Dream Team
Cats take 5 of 13 positions in Hometown News selections
3/22/03
The Wildcats were prominent in the Hometown News (Novi News locally) All-Area Dream Team this season.  Jared Perras, Jordan Collins and Trent Sisson were named to the First Team, and Chaz Bulbuk and Mike Karas were named to the Second Team.  Congratulations guys!
 

Season CDs Now Available
3/19/03
CDs containing the banquet slide show photos and this website were distributed to all Seniors Tuesday.  Others can order a CD for a $20 team donation.  If you'd like to order one, please send a check to Donna Malott, payable to Novi High School Hockey.
 

Jordan Collins Selected as All-State
Detroit News reports on states top hockey talent
3/17/03  Detroit News
Wildcat Junior Jordan Collins has been selected All-State, as reported in today's Detroit News.  The only other KVC hockey player to be selected is Brighton's Kurt Kivisto.

Official Shouldn't Have Been There
Novi News reports on officiating at regional finals
3/13/03  Novi News
Today's Novi News includes a report on the team's final game, and why one of the officials should not have been there at all.
 

Player Stats Have Been Updated
Congratulations to new members of Novi HS Top 10
3/8/03
Season Stats and All-Time School Stats have been updated.  Congratulations to #4 Justin Collins, #5 Brian Jaussi, #7 John Murray, #8 Jordan Collins, and #9 Chaz Bulbuk -- all members of the All-Time Top Ten Club!  Also, congratulations to Trent Sisson -- #1 goalie in school history by save percentage at 93.5%.

Thanks to Mr. Doug Collins for another fine job keeping both team and league stats, to Donna Malott for managing another fine season, and to all the parent volunteers.  And a special thanks to Team Managers Valdis Lenss and Pat Meier for all their hard work during the season.
 

Davison Defeats Novi 4-3 in Semi Finals
Wildcats lose a close one; Davison's defense solid
3/6/03
The Davison Cardinals played a solid, clean game of hockey Thursday, defeating the Cats 4 - 3 in a game that had fans on the edges of their seats for three periods.  Davison's defense was solid, and their goaltending excellent.

Senior Captain Garet Malott started off the Wildcats at 7:42 of the first period with an assist from John Murray and Robert Vulaj.  Two minutes later, Davison turned things around with two goals in a minute to take the lead.

In the second period, Vulaj punched one in from the corner with assist from Murray and Eric Cunningham to even things up.  Jordan Collins shot one in, unassisted and short-handed, to put Novi in the lead.  Three minutes later Davison evened things up again, and then scored again to end the period ahead 4 - 3.

Both teams were score-less in the third period, as both tried hard to gain the edge. 

Novi ends their season as regional champs for the fourth year, and state semi-finalists for the third year in a row.  The overall record for the season is 15-9-5.  Congratulations to the Novi Hockey Wildcats on an outstanding season.

GAME TRIVIA
This is Novi's fourth regional championship in four years -- of a five year program.

This is Novi's third trip to state semi-finals in three years.  All three games ended with the opponents scoring four goals.  

Two years ago, in the longest game in state history, Sault Saint Marie defeated the Wildcats in four overtimes in state semi-finals.  The score was also 4 - 3.

Wildcat of the Week: John Janssens
Junior John Janssens is a Wildcat role player.  In two games, he made perfect passes to start off the Wildcat scoring this season.  And as Olympic Gold Medallist Mike Eruzione says, it's role players who win games.  Click here to listen to Mike's advice from Wildcat Face-Off.
 

Novi Defeats E. Lansing 4-3 in Quarter Finals
Wildcats come from behind, scoring three goals in 3rd
3/4/03
The Wildcats defeated East Lansing 4 - 3 at Lansing Tuesday in state quarter-final action in a come from behind victory.  Novi High School's own Steve Yzerman, Senior Captain Jared Perras, lead the team with three points and two goals.  He started off the Cat's scoring, and also scored the winning goal. 

East Lansing got on the board first with a goal ten minutes into the first period.  Perras tied things up off a Robert Vulaj / Bryan Ellis pass 12 minutes into the second, but East Lansing scored two in a row, making it a 3 - 1 hockey game after two periods.

In the third period, John Murray took charge with a goal at the 11:28 mark off a Jared Perras pass.  Garet Malott tied things up four minutes later, and Jared Perras put in the winning goal with a couple minutes to go.  Justin Collins assisted on the tying and winning goal, while keeping East Lansing at bay to the end.

Novi takes on the Davison Cardinals Thursday at 6:00 p.m. at the Compuware Sports Arena in Plymouth Township.  Davison defeated Midland 6 - 5 Tuesday night at Flint IMA.  The winner of Thursday's game plays Saturday at 11:00 a.m. at Compuware. 

Davison is said to be a fast team with strong defense and solid goal tending abilities.  They are 23 - 2 - 1 for the season.  Davison is led by Rocky Ybarra, who scored 18 goals and added 10 assists for 28 points. Albert Mitchell has 27 points while Ryan Welch 24.  The Cardinals lost last year's Division 2 final game to Grosse Point North 4 - 0.

GAME TRIVIA
  - Novi also won last year's state quarter final game 4 - 3 vs. Okemos.  It was also a come from behind victory.
  - John Murray also had a key goal in last year's state quarter final game.
  - Click here to see what the Lansing State Journal is saying about the game, and also for a picture of John Murray from the Associated Press.
 

Wildcat of the Week: Garet Malott
Senior Garet Malott is a guy on the team who comes through when the pressure is on.  He played some excellent hockey in Regionals, and notched a point in the Wildcat's victory over the Waterford Kettering to secure another regional championship.  Garet is the grandson of Detroit Red Wings great Bill Gadsby.
 

Wildcats Highlighted in Speaking of Sports
3/2/03
Don't miss Bernie Fratto's column today, where he talks of flexing some Wildcat muscle.
 

Wildcat Hockey Travels to Lansing Tuesday
State quarter-final action for the fourth straight year
3/2/03
The Novi High School Hockey Wildcats travel to Lansing Tuesday for the fourth straight year to compete in state quarter-final action.  The game is slated for 7:00 p.m. at the ICE Sports Arena vs. East Lansing High School.  ICE Sports Arena was formerly known as ARC Ice Arena.  This is a new location for state quarter finals.

The team has provided these driving directions and hope to see all Wildcat fans there.  Take I-96 west to Okemos Road Exit (110).  Head north on Okemos, west on Jolly, north on Hagadorn to third light, and east on Hannah Blvd.  The arena will be on your left.  Travel time from Novi is 60 - 90 minutes, depending on traffic.
 

Wildcats Defeat Waterford Kettering 2-1
Novi Wildcats are regional champs for the 4th straight year
3/1/03
The Wildcats played some excellent hockey Friday, defeating a tough Waterford Kettering Captains team 2 - 1 at the Novi Ice Arena.  Junior Chaz Bulbuk lead the Cats with both goals.  Novi's defense was tough, and goalie Trent Sisson was superb in net.  That made the Wildcats regional champs for the fourth straight year -- of a five year program.

After a score-less first period, the Captains snuck one in to start off the second period.  Bulbuk answered back with a snap-shot, cutting in front of the Captains net off a Garet Malott / Brian Jaussi pass to even things up.

In the third period, Bulbuk scored 55 seconds in, taking a pass from Justin Collins, skating through the Captain's zone, and cutting in front of the net for the goal.

Novi's defense held tough throughout the game, holding the Captains at bay.  Both teams played a good, clean and fast hockey game.  Goalie Trent Sisson stopped many of the Captains scoring opportunities with a very solid effort between the posts.

Game Trivia
  - Chaz Bulbuk also scored the first goal in last year's regional championship game against Livonia Franklin, also off a Brian Jaussi pass.
  - Bulbuk's goal Friday night was the first goal to get past Captain's goalie Derek Collins in six periods of hockey.  The Captains had defeated Lakeland 1-0 Wednesday, and Livonia Franklin 3-2 in overtime Monday.
  - This is the first time the Wildcats and the Captains have met on the ice.
  - The Wildcats have never lost a regional championship game with Jared Perras and Brian Jaussi on the ice.  That's four regional championships for the only two guys who have played Wildcat hockey for four years.
 

Novi Hockey Defeats Ypsilanti 12 - 1
Wildcats will meet Waterford Kettering Friday 6:30 at Novi
2/27/03
The Hockey Wildcats defeated the Ypsilanti Lincoln Rail Splitters 12 - 1 in two periods on an all-around strong performance at the Novi Ice Arena.  In front of a packed house, the game was called after two periods due to the ten point rule.

The Wildcats also set a new team record, and what is believed to be a state playoff record, by scoring 4 goals in just 38 seconds.  That happened starting at 10:04 of the first period on a power play goal by John Murray, followed by goals at 9:50 (Brian Jaussi), 9:32 (Jared Perras) and 9:26 (Brett Jaussi).  Brett Jaussi scored again four minutes later to make it 5 - 1 Novi after one period. 

Goals in the second period by Robert Vulaj, Mario DeGrazia,  Garet Malott and two each by Chaz Bulbuk and Brett Jaussi sealed the victory.  Brett Jaussi lead the team with 5 points, and DeGrazia added 4.

In the second game of the evening at the Novi Ice Arena, the Waterford Kettering Captains defeated the Lakeland Eagles 1 - 0.  It was a very fast and exciting game that had the crowd on the edge of their seats for three periods.  After two score-less periods, Kettering scored on a goal by Brandon White.  Lakeland had many solid shots on net, but Captain goalie Derek Collins held tough and kept them at bay with several excellent saves.

Novi and Waterford Kettering meet Friday at 6:30 p.m. at the Novi Ice Arena for the championship game.  The winner of that game heads to Lansing ARC Tuesday for a State Quarter-Final game.  State Semi-Finals and Finals are next Thursday and Saturday at Plymouth's Compuware Sports Arena.
 

Wildcats Down Northville Mustangs 4 - 0
Novi wins first regional play-down game decisively
2/25/03
The Novi Wildcat Hockey Squad was firing on all cylinders Monday night, soundly defeating the cross-town rival Northville Mustangs 4 - 0 in the first round of playoff action at the Novi Ice Arena.  In front of a standing-room only crowd, goalie Trent Sisson made several impressive saves and played a superb game to earn the shut-out.  Novi's defense was solid, and, with goals from four different Cats, Novi's offensive depth showed.

The Wildcats got things started off in the first period on a Justin Collins goal.  He received a pass from Eric Cunningham and, looking like a train rushing down the tracks, flew down the ice and slid the puck right in.  Six minutes later, Robert "Flash" Vulaj scored on a slapshot from the corner off a Jordan Collins pass to make it 2 - 0 Novi after one.

In the second period, Captain Jared Perras scored unassisted and short-handed, rushing down the ice alone like a rocket to lift one into the corner of the net.  In the third, Chaz Bulbuk scored Novi's fourth and final goal on a Jordan Collins pass.

In the second game of the evening, the Waterford Kettering Captains surprised the Livonia Franklin Patriots in a come-from-behind overtime victory, 3 - 2.  This means Novi takes on Ypsilanti Lincoln Wednesday at 5:30 p.m., and Waterford meets the Lakeland Eagles at 7:45 p.m.  The winners of those two games meet Friday at 6:30 p.m.  All games are at the Novi Ice Arena.
 

Senior Night Photos Posted
2/22/03
Photos from Senior Recognition Night have been posted in the Photo Gallery.  We are putting together photos for the annual CD and slide show now.  Please give your photos to Donna or Scott by March 1 for scanning.  They'll be returned. 
 

Hockey Wildcats Defeat Pinckney 7 - 1
Jordan Collins leads Wildcats to victory with 3 points
2/19/03
The Hockey Wildcats sunk the Pirates at Pinckney Tuesday 7 - 1, with Junior Jordan Collins notching three points on a goal and two assists, and Senior John Murray getting two goals.  Chaz Bulbuk, Ryan Dixon and Brian Jaussi each had a two point game.  Trent Sisson was solid in net, keeping the Pirates down to just one goal.  Novi has never lost a hockey game to Pinckney.

The Wildcats started off on the board with two goals less than a minute apart in the first period.  Chaz Bulbuk scored first off a Jared Perras pass.  John Murray put one in shortly after with some help from Robert Vulaj to make it
2 - 0 Novi after one period.  In the second period, Jordan Collins scored 1:36 into the period.  Pinckney snuck one in, and Novi answered back with two goals from Murray and Mark Eberline.  That made it 5 - 1 Novi after two.  In the third period, Brian Jaussi and Dan Hunter added goals to seal the victory.

This was the Wildcat's final game of the regular season, with the overall record in the tough Kensington Valley Conference 7 - 5 - 2 for the year.  Monday at 5:30 p.m., the Wildcats and the Northville Mustangs meet for the first time this season in a Regional match-up at Novi.
 

Novi Hockey Announces Regional Schedule
Novi to host regionals; state playoffs coming to Plymouth
2/15/03
Novi Ice Arena will be the site of regional high school play downs this season.  Novi meets Northville on Monday February 24 at 5:30 p.m.  The winner of that game takes on Ypsilanti Lincoln Wednesday at 5:30 p.m.  The winner of that game takes on the winner of the Franklin, Kettering, Lakeland series Friday, February 28th at 6:30 p.m.
 

Wildcat of the Week: Dan Morrison
Junior Dan Morrison is Novi's man between the pipes -- a goalie everyone counts on, and goalie who stands firm when the going gets tough.  Dan played a great game in Wednesday's 4 - 2 defeat of the Milford Mavericks.  In the previous Milford game, he earned a well-deserved shut-out to lead Novi to a 6 - 0 victory.
 

Wildcats Over Milford Mavericks 4-2
4 seniors score for Novi on Senior Recognition Night
2/13/03
It was Senior Recognition Night for the Wildcats, and it was senior night on the board too as 4 seniors scored 4 Novi goals to defeat the Milford Mavericks 4 - 2 at the Novi Ice Arena.  Seniors Mike Karas and Ray Kennedy were solid on defense, and it was junior Dan Morrison in net for the Wildcats stopping several tough shots to preserve Novi's victory.

Brian Jaussi got things going as he poked one in from a Mark Eberline pass at the 7:43 mark of the first period.  Milford scored two minutes later on a net scramble to tie things up.  In the second, Jared Perras scored with an assist from John Murray and Robert Vulaj, giving Novi a 2 - 1 lead after two.  In the third, Dan Hunter put one in, followed by a Garet Malott goal on a pass from John Jansens to secure the win.

Also in action Wednesday, the Novi Wild skated to a 4 - 4 tie against Milford.  Kyle Wells played a great game, scoring two goals to lead the Wild.
 

Wildcat of the Week: #7  Justin Collins
Senior Justin Collins is Novi Hockey's Mr. Defense, and Mr. Offense.  He's one of the most solid and reliable defensive players to wear the Wildcat sweater in the program's history, and a top-notch all-around player.  His focus and determination are unequaled, as he gives 110% in every game to protect the Wildcat's zone will earning some solid offensive points at the same time.
 

Dogs Sneak Past Cats 3 - 2; Excellent Hockey
Brighton retains #1 spot in KVC with victory Monday at Novi
2/11/03
The Brighton Hockey Bulldogs put on a good performance Monday evening, defeating the Wildcats 3 - 2 to maintain their #1 spot in the conference.  Both teams played some excellent hockey, and it was one of those games that are simply exciting to watch from beginning to end.

Senior Captain Jared Perras scored both Novi goals, and has started the team off on the board the last three games.  Jordan Collins notched two assists, and played an excellent game.  Mike Karas and Bryan Ellis were also solid on defense.  Dan Morrison handled the net, and did a commendable job keeping the Bulldogs at bay.

After a fast and smart first period by both teams,  Brighton got on the board in the second with a goal at 12:28 while Novi skated short-handed.  Jared Perras came back ten minutes later and evened things up on a Novi power-play from a John Murray pass, making it a 1 - 1 hockey game after two periods of play.

In the third period, Brighton scored first again, and Perras again tied things up minutes later with some help from Chaz Bulbuk.  Then, with 2:50 to go in the game, Brighton scored while skating with a 5 on 3 advantage to take and hold onto the lead.

In prep action following the varsity game, the Novi Wild skated to a 4 - 4 tie vs. Brighton.
 

Sisson #1 Goalie in KVC by Save Percentage
Latest KVC stats shows Trent Sisson knows how to stop 'em
2/6/03
The latest Kensington Valley Conference goalie stats (WEB PAGE) show that Wildcat Goalie Trent Sisson knows how to stop those pucks.  He's currently #1 in the league by save percentage at 96%!  The Detroit Red Wings could use a guy like that right now!
 

Wildcats Down Eagles 6-1 on Solid Defense
2 goals, 2 assists each for Murray and Vulaj
2/6/03
John Murray and Robert Vulaj lead the Wildcats to a 6 - 1 victory over the Hartland Eagles Wednesday evening at Hartland.  After a score-less first half of the first period, team leader Jared Perras got things going with a goal at the 6:43 mark with an assist from Murray and Vulaj.  Murray scored two minutes later on a Perras / Justin Collins pass.  The Eagles snuck one in to make it 2-1 Novi after one period.

In the second, Vulaj and Murray scored, assisting one another with some additional help from the Collins brothers on both goals.  That made it 4-1 Novi after two.  In the third period, Vulaj got things going with assists from Zach Flavin and Brett Jaussi.  Then, with under a minute to go, Mario DeGrazia added another goal on a Mark Eberline / Chris Zarem pass to seal Novi's win.

The return of Justin Collins after an extended injury has  added a late-season spark to Novi's defense, as they held tough and kept the Eagles down throughout the second and third periods.  Trent Sisson, currently #1 in the conference by save percentage, stopped 17 shots for the well deserved victory.

Hartland Coach Howard Copeland tells the Livingston Press Argus of the Wildcats after the game "They just dominated us from start to finish. We're not happy. That was one of the worst beatings we've had, and at this time of the year we just don't need it."
 

Hockey Wildcats Down Highlanders 5-1
Captain Jared Perras leads team with two goals
2/4/03
The Wildcats defeated the Howell Highlanders 5 - 1 at the Novi Ice Arena Monday evening on a very solid performance by Novi's offense, defense, and goal tender.  Senior Captain Jared Perras lead the team with two goals.  Trent Sisson played a solid game in net, and Novi's defense kept the Highlanders low, especially in the second and third periods.

Howell scored their first, and only, goal at 6:26 of the first period.  Novi came back strong in the second, scoring on Jared Perras shot at 11:47 of the second period.  Jordan Collins added another a few minutes later to make it 2 - 1 Novi after two.  In the third period, the Wildcats were all over the Highlanders, with goals from Perras, Brett Jaussi and Bryan Ellis.

In prep action Monday, the Novi Wild defeated Howell 1 - 0 on a Brandon Harrell goal.  Justin Ruccolo was superb in net, stopping an onslaught of shots in the last minute of play as Howell pulled their goalie and added a man in an attempt to even the score. 
 

Wildcat of the Week: Ray Kennedy
Senior Ray Kennedy is a key member of Novi's defensive squad.  You may not always notice him as he quietly goes about his business, but he's always in the opponents way -- right where he should be.  Ray's plus-minus record and penalty record (just one for the entire season) show that he's one smart Wildcat.  And it's not unusual to see him playing "D" one night, and studying the Redwings defense in person at the Joe Louis Arena the next.
 

Wildcats and Lions Skate to 2-2 Tie
Brett Jaussi notches two points to lead team
1/30/03
The Hockey Wildcats and the South Lyon Lions skated to a 2 - 2 tie Wednesday evening.  The Lions started things off with a power-play goal in the first period.  Novi came back strong in the second, scoring one minute in on a Robert Vulaj goal.  The Cats took the lead minutes later on a Brett Jaussi goal, giving Novi a 2 - 1 lead after two.  The Lions scored in the third to tie things up, as both teams struggled for a game-winner.

Dan Morrison played a solid game in net.  Brett Jaussi lead the team with two points.  Jordan Collins and Mark Eberline also had the assists.  Collins and Ray Kennedy were especially strong on the defense, stopping many Lion advances.

Also in action Wednesday, the Novi Wild defeated Waterford Kettering 9 - 3 with a very solid performance.  Brandon Harrell had a hat-trick, and Justin Ruccolo handled the net with his usual expertise.  In the KVC, Tony Mango had two goals to lead the Milford Mavericks to a 3 - 2 victory over Hartland.
 

Cats Shut Down by Dogs 3 - 0 at Brighton
Sisson plays a good game, but Brighton's "D" holds tough
1/24/03
Trent Sisson played a solid game in net, stopping many tough Bulldog shots, but Brighton's defense, and especially their goalie, held tough and shut down Novi 3 - 0 Thursday evening at Brighton.  Brighton retains the #1 spot in the league, and has been playing some excellent hockey this season.  As usual, the KVC is tough competition.  Two weeks ago in the U.P., Brighton and Novi each lost by one point to Calumet, a perennial powerhouse.

 
Wildcat of the Week: #17 Mark Eberline
Club or stick, Sophomore Mark Eberline has got the hands to sink one, and score one too.  Mark sealed Novi's victory over Howell last week with a beauty in the third period.  It's Mark's first year on the team, and he's already making a name for himself as 7th in total points.  He was also key member of this year's state champion golf squad.
 

Lakeland Defeats Novi in Close Game 4-3
Wildcat's featured as WDIV Channel 4's Game of the Week
1/15/03
The Lakeland Eagles and the Novi Wildcats both played some excellent hockey, and the folks saw some very fast action over all three periods as both teams fought for the lead.  It was Novi's fourth game in just six days.  WDIV News 4 was at the game, and plans to air segments on their State Champs show at noon this Sunday.  This was WDIV's Game of the Week. 

Lakeland started off the first period with two goals in one minute, but pulled an unsportsman-like penalty on the second goal.  That 5-on-4 allowed Novi's John Murray to score on a Jordan Collins / Chaz Bulbuk pass.  Four minutes later, Ryan Dixon scored one of the nicest break-away goals that we've seen in a long time.  It was a back-hander into the upper-left corner of the net.  All the Lakeland goalie could do was glance over his shoulder.  That made it a 2-2 hockey game after one period of play.

In the second period, Lakeland scored 34 seconds in.  That was followed less than a minute later by a Wildcat goal from Robert Vulaj with assist from Eric Cunningham.  Still tied -- 3-3 -- after two periods of play.

Three minutes into the third period, Lakeland managed to sneak one past Novi goalie Dan Morrison to take, and hold onto, a one point lead.  Morrison played a solid game, stopping many tough shots against a very solid offensive team.

In prep action following the Wildcat game, the Novi Wild defeated the Lakeland Eagles 4 - 0.  Brandon Harrell scored two goals, and was all over the Eagles.  Justin Ruccolo was in net, played an excellent game, and earned a well deserved shut-out.

 
 

Wildcat of the Week:  #9  Ryan Dixon Old #9 Gordie Howe always amazed fans with his scoring prowess.  Today, it's Novi's #9 Ryan Dixon doing that.  He scored a beauty against Lakeland, pulling the goalie to one side, then back-handing one into the corner.  He also scored a nice one to start the Cats off against Hartland.  Keep your eye on Ryan -- the opponents goalies sure do!

 
Wildcats Down Howell Highlanders 3 - 1
Novi sets pace with a goal half-way through each period
1/14/03
The Hockey Wildcats must have been tired Monday.  The 7:45 p.m. game started late, and the boys had just come off a four day road trip to Houghton.  Then after school Monday, another bus ride to Howell.  But you wouldn't know it watching the hockey action Monday night, as Novi set the pace at the Grand Oaks arena, defeating the Highlanders 3 - 1 with some very consistent scoring.  Novi notched a point half-way through each period.

Senior Captain Jared Perras lead the team much as Steve Yzerman does -- by setting the example.  He scored the first Novi goal at the 8:53 mark of the first period on a nice pass from John Janssens.  Meanwhile, Novi's defense and goaltending was solid and kept the Highlanders at bay.

Howell scored at 7:23 of the second period, but Novi came back less than a minute later and made it a 2 - 1 hockey game.  That Wildcat goal was scored by Robert "Flash" Vulaj with an assist from Perras and Chaz Bulbuk. 

At 4:48 of the third period, it was role-player Mark Eberline adding and insurance goal with an assist from Bulbuk and Garet Malott.  Novi continued to hold Howell score-less through the end of the game.

Trent Sisson handled the net, stopping 16 Howell shots.  He played an excellent game.  When Sisson is hot, he's nearly impossible to beat.  That's exactly what happened Monday.

"It was a good game, all in all," Howell coach Randy Montrose told the Livingston Daily Press.  "It was back and forth, and one team has to win. Novi played a good game today."
 

Wildcat of the Week: Mario DeGrazia
Junior Mario DeGrazia is a Wildcat role player.  He's the guy who comes through when you need him.  He did that twice this week, notching three points in Novi's sinking of the Pirates, and then in Calumet scoring two goals to bring Novi up from a 4-0 deficit way up north in Copper Country.
 

Calumet Edges-Out Wildcats 5-4 at Calumet
Mario DeGrazia leads team for second time this week
1/12/03
Mario DeGrazia showed the folks in Copper Country how Novi plays hockey, scoring two goals to lead the Wildcats Saturday.  Novi was behind 4 - 0 in the first, but put on the pressure in the second and third periods.  Calumet, the perennial hockey powerhouse of the north, ended up winning the game 5 - 4.  Also scoring for Novi was Jared Perras and Robert Vulaj.  Dan Morrison had 15 saves for Novi.
 

1960 Olympic Gold Medallist Live Monday
Wildcat Face-off will talk Olympic and U.P. hockey
1/12/03  Photo
Bernie Fratto and crew will talk live to 1960 Olympic Hockey Gold Medallist Weldy Olson Monday on Wildcat Face-off.  Olson will discuss hockey in Michigan's Copper Country, as well as his experience on the 1956 Silver and 1960 Gold Medal U.S. Olympic Hockey Teams.  He is a native of Michigan's Upper Peninsula.  Also scheduled to appear is 2002 Novi High School graduate and three-sport star Adam Haberman. Haberman made the trip to the deep U.P. last season.  Wildcat Face-off is heard weekly Mondays from 7-8pm on 89.5FM WOVI.
 

Player Profiles Updated with Photos
Special thanks to Mr. John Perras for digital photo work
1/11/03
The player profiles have been updated to include this year's photos.  You can access the profiles from the Roster.  Please email Scott with any changes.
 

Novi Hockey Ties Gremlins 3-3 at Houghton
Vulaj scores two in battle of Michigan's best hockey teams
1/11/03
The Hockey Wildcats tied 3 - 3 vs. the Houghton Gremlins at Dee Arena in Houghton Friday evening.  Novi's Robert Vulaj scored two of those Wildcat goals to force overtime.  Novi had five shots on goal in overtime, to Houghton's zero, but the Gremlin goalie was able to keep the Wildcats at bay to preserve the tie.

This is the second annual trip for the Novi High School Hockey Wildcats to the northern edge of Michigan's Upper Peninsula - a twelve hour drive in good weather.  Saturday, the Wildcats take on Calumet -- one of Michigan's consistently top-ranked teams.

Hockey Wildcats Sink Pirates 10 - 0
10 goals by 9 Cats; game called short due to 10 point rule
1/9/03
The Novi Wildcat hockey squad sunk the Pinckney Pirates at the Novi Ice Arena Wednesday evening 10 - 0.  The game was called due to the 10 point rule with 3:24 to go in the 3rd period.  Nine different Cats scored those 10 goals.  Mario DeGrazia lead the team, notching three points within ten minutes.

Jordan Collins started things off for Novi at 10:04 of the 1st period.  That was followed through the second period with goals from Dan Hunter, John Murray, John Janssens and Brett Jaussi.  In the third period, Novi notched five more goals from Mario DeGrazia, Chaz Bulbuk, Brett Jaussi, Garet Malott and Mark Eberline.  Trent Sisson handled the net, and earned a well deserved shutout.  Novi has never lost a hockey game to Pinckney. 

Thursday, the Wildcats head twelve hours north to Houghton Michigan to play in the Houghton Invitational.

Also in action Wednesday at Novi, the Wild prep team was defeated by the Birmingham Bulldogs 3 - 2 in a close one.  In regional conference action, Brighton skated past South Lyon 6 - 2, Howell pounded Milford 5 - 1, and it was Eagles vs. Eagles as Hartland edged past Lakeland 3 - 2.

 

Spotlight Wildcat of the Week: Robert Vulaj

Junior Robert "Flash" Vulaj is a hockey machine at game-time.  He's hard to catch, harder to stop, and knows how to score.  Vulaj had three points against Clarkston at the Trenton Tournament recently.  He's also the Top Cat for point scoring in conference games.

 
29 Former Hockey Wildcats Compete for Fun
Annual alumni game well attended, fun for all
12/28/02
The Novi Ice Arena was filled with old familiar faces Friday evening, as 29 former Hockey Wildcats skated in the annual Green and White alumni game.  With friends and family cheering them on, it was in all likelihood one of the most talented teams ever to skate at Novi.  The lineup included local hockey greats Brad Zarem, Adam Haberman, Travis Malott, Robby Overfield, Rob Innis, and many others.  Nine of Novi's top-ten all-time scorers attended.  Kudos to Dave Vigna for organizing the event once again.
 

Wildcat Game Jerseys Available for Purchase
Great deal on first and second year game jerseys!
12/27/02
The Wildcats announced today that game jerseys from the team's first two years are now available for sale, first come, first served.  The jerseys will be on sale at tonight's alumni game, and going forward until they're gone.  Contact Donna Malott or Coach Zarem to purchase one today! 

 

Spotlight Wildcat of the Week: Trent Sisson

Junior Trent Sisson is the wall in front of Novi's net.  The Wildcat goalie earned honors at the recent Traverse City West Tournament, in a competition between attending schools, by taking first place in the goalie competition.  Trent is a year-round athlete -- he was a member of the football team, and runs track too.

 
Wildcat Hockey at Trenton Showcase
Novi looses a close one, ties in another
12/26/02
At the Trenton Showcase Tournament, the Wildcats lost a close one to East Kentwood 2 - 1 in a very physical game.  Novi out-shot Kentwood, but it wasn't enough.  Kentwood scored twice in the first period.  After a score-less second, John Murray scored that Wildcat goal with an assist from Robert Vulaj.  Trent Sisson kept Kentwood out of the Wildcat net with several great saves.

In the second round, the Cats tied Clarkston 6 - 6.  Novi was ahead in the third, but Clarkston managed to tie things up at hold the Cats at bay to the end.  John Murray and Robert Vulaj each had three point games to lead the Wildcats. Mark Eberline had a goal and an assist, and Jared Perras scored a beauty.
 

Wildcats Pound Mavericks 6 - 0 at Lakeland
Novi Hockey looking good with solid victory over Milford
12/19/02
The Hockey Cats came out shooting Wednesday evening, and Dan Morrison handled the net like an old pro, as they downed the Milford Mavericks 6 - 0 at the Lakeland Arena. 

The Jaussi brothers contributed a pair of goals in the third period.  Jared Perras, Mark Eberline, John Murray and Jordan Collins each kicked in a goal, while Garet Malott, Robert Vulaj and Chris Zarem each had a two point game.

Dan Morrison was superb in net, stopping several tough shots, especially in the third period.  He earned a well-deserved shut-out.
 
 
Wildcat Hockey Alumni Hockey Game Coming
Friday, December 27th at 4:30pm - the Alumni Cats return
12/19/02
The Novi High School Hockey Wildcats invite all hockey fans to their fun-filled annual Alumni Game.  The event is set for next Friday, December 27th at 4:30 p.m. at the Novi Ice Arena.  Admission is free, but of course donations are welcome.  This annual event is always well attended by fans and Novi Wildcat alumni.  Stop by to see your favorite Wildcats return to the ice.

 

Spotlight Wildcat of the Week: John Murray

Senior John Murray is already a top-ten Hockey Wildcat.  If he's not scoring, he's passing the puck up for an assist.  Murray had two points in Novi's game vs. Brother Rice last Saturday, and three points vs. Hartland Wednesday.  He was also MVP at the Novi High School Hockey Tournament.  Whether he's scoring or assisting, he's getting points on the board for the Cats.

 
Wildcats Skate to 3 - 3 Tie vs. Brother Rice
5 goals in the first period; Novi ties things up in 3rd period
12/15/02
The Novi Wildcats took on Brother Rice in a Saturday afternoon game, and skated to a 3 - 3 tie.  The Wildcats started on the board up 2 - 0 before the Brother Rice scoring machine kicked in with 3 goals late in the first period.  Novi tied things up in the third period.

Jared Perras started the Wildcats, putting one between the posts on a power-play with assists from Chaz Bulbuk and John Murray two minutes into the game.  Less than a minute later, Dan Hunter scored a beauty with an assist from Brett Jaussi and Jordan Collins.  Brother Rice scored a minute later, then got two more late in the first period on power-plays.  That made it 3 - 2 Brother Rice after one period.

After a score-less second period, Robert "Flash" Vulaj evened things up in the third, scoring on a pass from Brian Jaussi and Murray at the 6:05 mark.

Trent Sisson handled the net, and 27 Brother Rice shots.  Mark Eberline and Eric Cunningham both played very well for Novi, controlling much of the action against a tough opponent.

Trivia note: This is the second meeting between the teams.  Last year, the Wildcats also tied Brother Rice 3 - 3.
 

Video Assistance Need -- Please...
12/12/02
The team really needs to get a parent or friend with a video camera to tape the games.  If you can help or know someone who can, please email or talk to Coach Smith today.
 

Novi and Hartland Skate to 6 - 6 Tie
Eight goals in one period; a hat-trick for Bulbuk
12/12/02
The Wildcats tied with the Hartland Eagles 6 - 6 at the Novi Ice Arena Wednesday evening in a very exciting game in front of a good Wednesday evening crowd. Chaz Bulbuk earned a hat-trick, and both teams combined for 8 goals in the second period alone. Despite the high score, Novi's defense looked solid, with Jordan Collins controlling much of the action in Novi's zone.  Dan Morrison handled the Wildcat net.

Rookie Wildcat Ryan Dixon got the Cats going, scoring off a nice shot from the corner thanks to a John Janssens pass three minutes into the game. Robert "Flash" Vulaj put one in a couple minutes later with an assist from John Murray. The Eagles managed to sneak one in while Novi was short-handed.  Then, Jared Perras took control with a very solid up-ice pass, connecting with Brian Jaussi for a goal with a minute to go in the first.  That made it 3 - 1 Novi after one period.

In the second, Hartland came out on a mission to even the score, putting one between the posts 25 seconds in. Chaz Bulbuk scored his first of three goals off Murray and Jordan Collins. Hartland scored on a two-man breakaway a minute later, and immediately scored again on a net-scramble to tie the game. Bulbuk moved Novi ahead by punching in a bouncing puck in front of the net that started from a Mark Eberline shot. Hartland scored 15 seconds later to even things up again, and moved ahead a minute later while Novi was two men short. Bukbuk evened the score to 6 - 6 after two periods of play, a hat-trick, off a Jared Perras pass.

Both teams changed to a defensive game for the third period, which was fast, but score-less.

In other hockey action of interest on Wednesday, the Clarkston Wolves defeated the Novi Wild 3 - 2, and the Brighton Bulldogs edged out the Lakeland Eagles 6 - 5.  Brighton's Jeff Wiley and Lakeland's Brad Skaglin each had two goals in that game.

 

Spotlight Wildcat of the Week: Jordan Collins

Junior Jordan Collins is the heart and sole of Novi's defense.  He's also a big part of Novi's scoring machine in his spare time.  It's rare an opponent can get past Jordan.  It's more common that Jordan is skating past opponents -- with the puck -- passing it on up for a goal.  Whichever direction the action is, Jordan's there.

Hockey Wildcats Win in Overtime vs. U of D
At home opener, Novi wins 5 -4 in overtime; quick action
12/7/02
The Novi High School Hockey Wildcats opened their 2002-2003 season in style at home with a 5 - 4 overtime victory over the University of Detroit Jesuit High School Friday evening at the Novi Ice Arena.  It was a close game throughout, and was tied up 4 - 4 after three periods, but in the end the Cats prevailed.

Just 40 seconds into the first period, it was Mark Eberline who put one between the posts on a pass from Jordan Collins and Chaz Bulbuk.  Late in the first period, U of D managed to sneak two in a minute apart to make it 2 - 1 U of D after one period of play.

The second period was very fast and action-packed, as both teams strived to widen the score.  Novi came out shooting, with Brett Jaussi scoring three minutes into the period with an assist from Dan Hunter.  Robert "Flash" Vulaj scored a minute later on a pass from Mike Karas and John Murray.  A minute later, the U of D managed to get two more goals just nine seconds apart.  Vulaj evened things up with a nice shot at the twenty-nine second mark on a pass from Bulbuk to make it 4 - 4 after two periods of play.

The third period was score-less, as each team met with tough defense while trying to break the tie score.  That forced a five minute overtime period.  Just 35 seconds into overtime, Chaz Bulbuk settled things with a shot from the point, unassisted, to win the game for the Wildcats.
  

Spotlight Wildcat of the Week: Jared Perras

Senior Jared Perras, a Tri-Captain, is the team's most experienced leader.  A consistent hard-worker, Jared leads by example.  He gives 110% at every game, and every practice.  Jared scored a big goal in Novi's victory over Flint Kearsley Friday at the Traverse City West Tournament, and three points against Livonia last weekend.

 
Wildcat Hockey Takes 2nd in Tournament
Ann Arbor Huron a tough team this season
12/2/02
Chaz Bulbuk was MVP in the first game with a natural hat-trick, two power-play goals and one even strength goal. John Murray scored a short-handed goal, and Robert Vulaj scored one from Brian Jaussi. Jared Perras scored the final goal from Brian Jaussi and Garet Malott.  Mark Eberline had an assist, Jordan Collins had two assists, Garet Malott had two assists, Murray had a three point game,Trent Sisson stopped 29 shots in the 6 to 2 win over Flint Kearsley.

Trent Sisson represented Novi well by winning the goalie portion of the Skills competition.

36 hours later the championship game was played between Novi Wild Cats and Ann Arbor Huron River Rats.  Novi fell behind in the first period 0-2 but came out fired-up in the second period. Late in the second period, after carrying the play with less than 2 minutes remaining Chaz Bulbuk scored form Jordan Collins and Zach Flavin. Then Robert Vulaj scored 50 seconds later form Chaz Bulbuk and Jared Perras.

Dan Morrison played very well keeping the River Rats within striking distance. The score as they went to the room was 2-3. Novi played hard in the third period, with less than two minutes remaining the Wildcats pulled their goalie. They forced two major pile-ups in front of the River Rat's net when Jordan Collins took the winger spot and drove to the net with River Rats hanging on him.  John Murray rifled had hard blast from the slot, the puck hit the cross bar and dropped into the crease behind the River Rats goalie and laid there. The Novi players could not get their stick free of the River Rats
gloves as time stood still, the puck laying inches the from the goal line which would have tied the game and send it to over-time. After what seemed like minutes the referee finally saw the goalie rollover onto the puck, and the play along with Novi's hopes of over-time came to a stop.

On the next face off the River Rats scored into the empty net giving them a 4-2 victory and the Championship in the first Traverse City High School Hockey Tournament.
  ~ Reported by a Wildcat Parent from Traverse City
 

Wildcat Golf Wins Again -  in the Classroom
Novi Golf tied for best grades in the State of Michigan
11/29/02  Midland Daily News
The Novi Wildcat Golf Squad won the County and State Championships this year.  They also tied for first place on grades.  With an amazing average 3.96 GPA, the Top Cats share the title with Midland High School for the smartest guys in Michigan.  Hockey Wildcats Brett Jaussi and Mark Eberline were on the golf team -- Novi's own Happy Gilmores.
 
 
Novi Hockey on the Road to Traverse City
Wildcats take on anyone, anywhere -- Flint today
11/29/02
The Novi Wildcat Hockey Squad isn't afraid to play anyone, anywhere.  This season's schedule is solid evidence of that.  Just a couple weeks into the season, the Cats are playing in their second tournament against some of the state's top hockey talent.  Friday morning, they take on Flint at the Traverse City West Tournament.  Saturday, there's a championship game.
 

Wildcats Split at Weekend Tournament
Chaz Bulbuk and John Murray MVPs
11/25/02
The Wildcats took second in the weekend's first annual high school hockey tournament at the Novi Ice Arena, falling to Farmington Unified in the championship game.

Friday evening, the Wildcats defeated Livonia Churchill 5 - 2.  Novi was lead by Chaz Bulbuk with two goals and an assist, Justin Collins with four points including a goal, and Jared Perras with a goal and two assists.  Also scoring for Novi was Robert Vulaj on a pass from John Murray and Brian Jaussi.  Jaussi just returned to the team after an outstanding football season for Novi.

Also Friday, Farmington Unified defeated Divine Child 3 - 2.  Saturday, Divine Child defeated Livonia 3 - 2, and Farmington Unified defeated Novi 5 - 0.

Meanwhile, the team named tri-Captains for the 2002 - 2003 season.  They are Jared Perras, Garet Malott and Justin Collins.