The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
As their development continues, Flin Flon Bomber hopefuls Chris Blaquiere and Jesse Goertzen want to take aspects of Edmonton Oiler star Chris Pronger's game and place it in theirs. That bodes well for the Bombers, as both recently signed cards and will battle for a blueline job. Chris chose to sign with the Bombers because he felt it was an opportunity to progress as he strives to play at a higher caliber. The deciding factor in Chris signing is the reputation of coach-GM Doug Stokes. "Doug is trying to change the organization and put them on the right track," said Chris, who played two games as a Bomber call-up and collected one assist. With that experience, and the fact he was put in the situation of playing in the last minute of a game, he feels his chances of landing regular work are good. "I'm excited to meet new people, teammates, the organization and the crazy fans that throw moose legs on the ice," he said. Chris' brother, Jeff, who plays for the Battlefords' North Stars, told him the fans are one of a kind. The chance to play against his brother is something he's also looking forward to. "I've always wanted to do it," Chris said. When the Bombers issued a release regarding their player signings, they said Chris' "skill level has gotten better with game experience and impressed the scouting staff on how he stepped up during the playoffs this past season." While he battles for a job in camp, Winkler's Jesse Goertzen will be right beside him. The soon-to-be 18-year-old is 6-1, 190 pounds and won't allow the front of the net to be a tourist destination. During the season, Jesse amassed 117 penalty minutes in 28 games with the Pembina Valley Hawks. "I love getting in the corner and getting in someone's face," he said. "I plan on being aggressive." While bringing a physical presence, he also wants to contribute on the scoreboard. During a season shortened by injury and surgery (not game related), he put up decent offensive numbers (one goal, 12 points). "In the playoffs I had a point streak going and would like to improve offensively," he said. In 12 playoff games he tallied three goals and seven points. All of his goals came on the power play. Along with his aggressive style, Jesse said Stokes likes his puck moving ability. The good news for Bomber fans is that Jesse feels he's ready mentally and physically to contribute. "I can think the game well," Jesse said. "I can read the ice and play at that speed and level." Jesse chose to sign because of the education factor, as the organization intends to help him in that area. When he isn't studying, Jesse will look forward to the crowd in the Whitney Forum. "I'm really looking forward to seeing how they are with their junior hockey," Jesse said, as he has experienced playing minor hockey here during tournaments. "I love it when a community is behind the team."
