Battestella and her Father, Team Assistant Lou Battestella.

8-28-02
Battestella Diagnosed with Lyme's Disease

The Last six months have not been easy for Defenseman Kristin Battestella. Doctors orginally diagnosis Battestella with Mono, then another doctor diagnosised the stricken 21 year old as having chronic fatique. "One doctor said I had mono, another said I had chronic fatique. I went for all kinds of tests, but everything came back negative," Battestella recounts. Finally, her Aunt, suggested she go to a Lyme's Disease clinic. "I had been tested for Lyme's Disease, twice, and it came back negative. Then again, so did my tests for Lupus, rhuemtoid arthritis, ms, and HIV." With the extensive Western Block test, the doctors discovered Kristin does indeed have Ebstein Barr and Lyme's Disease. "The doctors say I've had Lyme's Disease for at least four years. I had managed to fight it off, but contracting Mono activated the Lyme and intensified my symptoms." Symptoms, on any give day, can range from mild joint pain to dizziness and loss of motor skills. "I've been on antibotics for the past few weeks. They help some. 2 pills twice a day. Some days are really good, other days I just stay in bed." Lyme's Disease also results in a diet change for Battestella. "No more pasta! Chip would be happy. All the people who swear they feel great on the Atkins Diet must have Lyme's Disease. No more carbs, yeast, or sugar for me. I've become Mexican." Lyme's Disease feeds on the sugars, yeast, and carbs, as well as cartildge and scar tissue. "Everywhere I've every had a bruise is a target spot. Imagine how I must feel." Battestella hasn't set foot inside an ice rink since January 12th. "Some days I feel like I want to skate, and just put my skates on my feet, but they feel too heavy. Then I feel really good and want to go skate, but then I get up and walk into the wall and I think twice."

January 2002
Belated Wisdom from Coach Mayo

    It is tough for a coach to be away from his players over the holiday season.  With the pangs of separation tugging at his heart, Flames Head Coach Chip Mayo sent the following email to his players.  Read it here-exclusively at Flamin' Times.
 

Happy Holidays,

    Hope everyone is having a good and safe holiday season. Our schedule is set up to give us 2-1/2 weeks away from the game, so we can rest, regroup and put on a big push on for the second half of the season and the playoffs.

    I consider the first half of the season a positive start and hopefully just a tease of the things to come in the second half. The passing type of practice we ran on Saturday 12/22 is something we will touch on the rest of the season.

    I want to take a minute to mention that at the end of the year the players will vote for Team Most Valuable Player and Rookie of the Year. All players are eligible for M.V.P.  The players eligible for the rookie award must be new to this level of play since the end of last winter season.

Rookie Candidates:
#9 Evelyn Ivey
#13 Abby Greenstein
#16 Arlene Douge
#25 Karen Lubberman
#27 Helen Kozuhowski
#29 Annie Fetter

    We skate next on Wed 1/9/02 8:00 pm . The rest will be nice. I do ask that you get away from the game and clear your head, I believe at last year's playoffs we were Burnt-Out after such a long season (53 touches).A public skating session right before our first practice probably wouldn't be a bad idea.

    I am very happy with our team's progress and I know I don't say that enough. In my mind we are AHEAD of schedule as far as team development. I do not look at wins and losses as a way to measure our team. Let's keep moving forward and we will SHOOT, PASS, KICK SOME ASS !!!

Have a good holiday,
Chip

Gina Ready for Alternate Challenge

    Gina Nagvajara has what some would call a full plate.  Mother, wife of an Olympian, and new Flames Alternate Captain.
"It's great being part of the Flames.  Everyone's been so nice and welcoming.  I'm really enjoying being part of a team again.  Everyone gives so much of themselves to the team," pipes #15.
"For me its been a great escape from work, and being a mother and wife (Even though I cherish my son and husband!)  I was really flattered to be selected as one of the atlernate captains!"
    Although often  quiet and subdued, Gina does not shy from saying what's on her mind when necessary.
"I Think I am more of an on-ice leader, but I try and provide vocal support as well.  I think people respect you more if they see that you are 'practicing what you preach'.....Back check, keep your stick on the ice, etc."
    Getting back to the hockey grind has not been difficult for Nagvajara.  It's more like returning to the ole stomping grounds.
"I was captain of my college team (Even though it was way back when!) So I sort of know the ropes.  Mainly as a Captain I try and provide positive moral support and make other players feel that its okay to make mistakes- that's part of the game.)
 

1-18-02
Battestella Out for Season

Flames defenseman Kristin Battestella is our for the rest of the season with mononucelousis. "It's difficult to be fine one day and sick the next," Says the rugged defenseman. Doctors have restricted Battestella from all physical ativity, due to a severly damaged spleen. The virus was brought on by the damage spleen, which became ruptured from a blocked shot. Doctors say the damaged could have gone back as far as July 2001, when Battestella got a skate to the stomach. "I have to sit still, and I don't like sitting still." Kristin's treatment was further slowed by an adverse reaction to doctor perscribed antibiotics, and if a summer of rest does not cure it, Battestella could miss the first half of next season.

New Flames Captain Deb Bright reflects on the season so far, both how the team has faired and individually on the experience of Captain. "The responsibility is a bit different. As captain, I believe I am responsible for individual feedback (from captain to player) and more responsibility for the players themselves." "A captain's responsibility should also include consulting regularly with players on team matters as well as working in helpful ways to resolve conflicts within the team. It is imperative that a captain provide positive leadership at all times throughout the season. As an assistant, I was more or less there to help the captain accomplish these goals." Along with alternate Captains Andrea Mayo and Gina Nagvajara, Deb is ready for any task. "I think between the three of us, there is a lot of enthusiasm and dedication. They are both very enthusiastic, motivational and leaders on the ice." Overall the Captain is proud of the first half of the season. "I think we have really grown as a team and I am impressed with the attitudes on the team. Much more positive than past years. We have great potential to go all the way this year. Each player just needs to believe in themselves and as captains, Gina, Andrea and myself will help by being encouraging and hope the team is receptive to what the captains have to say!".
 

The Short and Long of It

    It's that time of year again. Candles all a glow, Mistletoe, and words of wisdom from Chip Mayo. Read his exclusive interview-unedited and uncut-only in Flamin' Times.

FT: How does this team differ from last year?
CM: It's going to be hard to compare the two teams, due to the fact they play against two different schedules.  I believe we are going to be involved in lower scoring games then last year.  We are eight games into the schedule and we've only scored 15 goals and given up only 17 goals.
We are a good passing team, just like last year.  This is due to the work the team does on our drills.  As a team, we need to improve our scoring.  Lifting the puck is priority if this team is to go to the next level.
We are definitely a 'grit' team.  We need to work hard and play smart, eliminating our opponents' scoring chances.

FT:What is the Team's focus to work on?
CM: Puck control is this year's focal point.  Individual and team puck control are necessary for this team to find the next level.  We must keep the puck in our possession as much as possible.

FT: How do you expect players to mesh?  D? Lines?
CM: The 'D' pairs are going to be great.  A nice mixture of speed and physicality.  As for the lines, Evelyn gives a little more speed to the Kelly-Nina line, this should be a good forechecking line.  The Abby-Donna-Patti line will need time to develop, but once it does, the sky is the limit at both ends of the ice.

FT: What do you expect from the goaltenders?  Defense?
CM: I was not happy with last year's goalies.  With the addition of Annie and the growth of Debbie, I have much higher expectations this year. Smart, physical, and aggressive is what I expect from the 'D'.  If the 'D' can remember to join the rush, we will be tough to beat.

FT: What do you expect from the forwards? Captain? Rookies?
CM: Forwards-puck control, puck control, puck control... team+individual!!!
Deby Bright and I had a talk as to my expectations of her and the team.  She will be great as the Captain of the team.
As a group they {the rookies} have exceeded my expectations.  Maybe later in the season I'll discuss the individuals.

FT: How do you think the Flames will fair?
CM:  I think it's important not to focus on our record only.  I've made our non-league schedule very challenging.  The important thing is team growth.  I've said all along that this would be a 3 year project to become a good team.  So being less than halfway through year #2, I'm very happy with our progress.  But there are some players here that have to remember this golf slogan:  ' You can't see the green, if you're looking at a sand trap.'
 

There you have it folks!
Merry Christmas!

November ‘01
Flames Fundraising Hot This Season

    Somethings in sports never change, and fundraising is one of them.  The Flames, of course, are no exception.  Entertainment books are on sale thru December 15th, With Phone Comm pre-paid calling cards running thru January.
    Homestead Essentials Candles, Body and Bath were sold during October, and Pampered Chef kitchen supplies are on for November.
    The Flames will also sell Wawa Hoagies thru March, and Grocery store receipts from Genuardi's and Acme can be collected throughout the season.
    Like last season, what you sell through fundraising comes of Flames dues.  For More information, contact Evelyn Ivey.

 Women's Equipment?  Not For Flames.

  Women's Hockey has come a long way.  From playing in figure skates to the production of an entire women's equipment line.  But is women's equipment really a better fit?
"I don't think I own one thing that is women's exclusive," Flames defenseman Kristin Battestella says.  "When I started playing there wasn't anything like that.  Why change now?"
    The Female style cup provides protection, but skates and hockey pants only seek to provide a more comfortable fit for the wider hip and lower calf muscle.  Only a handful of Flames wear the pelvic gear.  Donna and Gina have women's hockey pants, "Only because I just boguht them," says Gina.
    Many female shoulder pads provide extra chest protection, but little else.  However, women's hockey is noncheck, and does not require extensive upperbody protection.  Small gloves for small hands are also available. Only three Flames wear a women's chest protector.
    In today's market, by far the best advancement for the women's game has been in the stick industry.  Bauer's women's stick provides the senior blade and stick length with a smaller shaft, for often smaller women's hand.
    The composite and graphite industry also has aided the women's game.  Three Flames use the Louisville TriCore.  The Intermediate size is just right for female hands.  Heavy wood sticks have given way to lighter Easton Ultra Lights and Prokennex.
    All in all, the prodcution of women's specific hockey products proves the industry is seeking the women's demographic, a thought unheard of twenty years ago.

11-11-01
Quarry Cats Lose One of Their Own.

    Word came to the Flames this October that Michele Polis, member of the Quarry Cats, died of a heart attack during the team's first practice.
    The 35 year old wife and mother was aquainted with New Jersey Devils goaltender Martin Brodeur.  He called Michele's favorite player, Washington Capitals Winger Jaromir Jagr.  Jagr immediately signed a jersey and sent it to the Polis family.

Flames Pictures Novmeber 4th.

    The Concord Flames gathered for their 2001-2002 team pictures November 4th. Group and individual pictures were taken of the Flames, as well as the TWHL C teams.  The Photos will be available soon.

September ‘01
Flames Fired up This Season!

     Its that time of year again, and the Concord Flames are firing on all cylinders-well, at least 11.  11 players are returning from last season’s roster.
    Wings Bridget Williams, Patti Buck, and Terri Ney ( numbers 34, 7, and 2, respectively) are joined by caught Outlaw #13 Abby Greenstein.  The snipping wing played with the Flames this past Spring.
     Fronting the center position is returning alternate captain  #77 Deb Bright, and speedy figure skater-turned-hockey player Donna Helgenberg.  Donna also joined the Flames full-time in the Spring League.
    The fiery forwards #91 Kelly Breeden and #41 Nina DiTrolio are also returning to rack up the PIMs, along with returning d-gal  #24 Kristin Battestella.
     New to the blueline this season will be Helen Kozuhowski, moving up from the Aston Outlaws.  Michelle O’Toole (#11), Cathy Lane (#23), and alternate captain #4 Andrea Mayo  round out the returning defense core. One spot is still open on Defense.
     # 30 Deb Taylor returns in net, and former atlernate Annie Fetter straps on the pads  full time this season.
 
 

    We know those grueling 10:45 pm slots are gone, but will the graffiti in the locker room be gone soon too? Yes!  The Concord Flames will rent their own locker room when the new rinks open at Iceworks, Coach Chip Mayo confirmed August 9th.  The  total of rinks in the warehouse will be four.
     More ice rinks means better time slots this season. The Concord Flames and the TWHL C teams will  alternate practices Monday at 7:30pm and Wednesdays at 8pm.  Home games will be Saturdays at 6:30 or 8:15 or Sundays at 3:30.

TWHL B Division Expands.

 B is getting Bigger this season.  The Bridgewater Wings have joined the TWHL B division, after playing the Flames last season in a competitive and feisty home and home series.  That brings the League’s total number of teams to 6 .
The Princeton Tigers, Upenn Quakers, Brooklyn Blades, FHA Quarry Cats are returning as well. The league was planning  a North/South division system with neutral games at Pro Skate in Princeton,  NJ, but the West Chester (NY) Wildcats and Long Island Liberty backed out do to travel.  Instead, the schedule will be about 10 or 12 games.
 Nonleague games with various teams in the area will also be on the Flame’s schedule.
 
 

In Breakway Magazine...
TWHL Looks Forward to Season

by Kristin Battestella

         The Tri-State Women's Hockey League is looking forward to their
upcoming Fourth season with excitement.
         Entering their third season is the 'B' division Concord Flames.   The Flames are hoping to return to the playoffs after last year's heartbreaking overtime loss. The game was tied 1-1 thru three periods, but the winning goal came 2:22 into sudden death. Eleven players are returning from last season.
         New to the 'B' division are the Bridgewater (NJ) Wings.  Last season, the Flames and Wings played a feisty, non-league home and home series.
    Returning are the Princeton Tigers, UPenn Quakers, FHA Quarry Cats, and Brooklyn Blades.  The Long Island Liberty and West Chester (NY) Wildcats bowed out of the TWHL due to travel.  Each team will play ten to
twelve league games, with neutral games at ProSkate in Princeton, New Jersey.
         Based at Iceworks with the Flames is the TWHL 'C' division.  Last season, the Delco Sting captured the regular season championship in an exciting shootout over the Concordville Crunch. The clutching game was deadlocked into the second.
    The Sting's Bridget Kasekla broke the zeroes, then Megan Boettcher tied it with 1:08 left in the third.  Sting goalie Andrea Mayo hung on, as did Crunch goalie Amy Bradley thru a dicey overtime.  Jenn Schrader scored the winner in a shootout.  Seventeen shooters faced off with each goaltender.
         The Aston Outlaws are ready for this season, along with the Central Penn Blades.  The C teams will also travel to Vineland, New Jersey for non-league games.
         New to the TWHL this season will be the 'Intermediate' Team.  Between the levels of B and C, the C all-star like team will be coached by Flames veterans Kristin Battestella and Andrea Mayo. Figure skater-turned-hockey player Donna Helgenberg will be involved with skating instruction.  The Intermediate team will play about ten games, beginning around Thanksgiving.
        Newlywed Mike Kriwonos will  also be coaching Intermediate and Flames this year. This past July, Mike and Holly Bennett were married after meeting during the 1998 Sting season.
       For more information, call Team Director Andrea Mayo at 610-494-6296.

9-19-01
U PENN Is Out!

    The University of Pennsylvania Quakers have withdrawn from The Tri-State Women's Hockey League B Division.
    Due to conflicts with their Athletic Director and parent school, UPenn has dropped to non-league status.
    They will still play their minimum two games with each team.

Ivy, Douge In!

    Evelyn Ivy and Arlene Douge are on the Flames!  Arlene will wear number 16, and 'Dougie' will most likely play defense with bruiser Kristin Battestella.
    Evelyn plays D and forward.  Evie rounds out the short, swift, and fiesty line with Kelly Breeden and Nina Ditrolio.
    "I'm just happy to be here,"  the new number 9 quips.
 

    New to the Flames this season is the Taxi Squad.  Players will attend the Flames practices, and be ready to step in when necessary.  Center  Karen Lubberman is doing extra time with the Taxi and the Outlaws.
    New to the organization is Gina Nagvajara.  The special number 15 cannot commit to the Flames fully this season due to family commitments.  Proud mother and wife will be watching her husband in the 2002 Olympics.
    Three spots remain open on the Taxi Squad.  Head Coach Chip Mayo is 'looking for someone to step up' from the C division.

Family concerns for Bennett

      Illness in the family has forced Holly Bennett to take an extended leave of absence from the Flames.
    Hockey takes a backseat to any family situations in this organization.  Everyone involved with the Flames wishes Holly all our best.
    Husband Mike Kriwonis will continue as Flames assisant coach.  Some of you might have seen the 'Inlove' feature on Holly and Mike in the August 26th issue of Inquirer Magazine.
    The two married July 21 after meeting through involvements with the TWHL.

Abbott, Blades Safe

    Like everyone else in the United States, members of the Flames family instantly thought about our friends in New York.
    Former Flame Lynore Abbott, along with the rest of the Brooklyn Blades, escaped tragedy this past week.
    Lynore returned to the Blades after job commitments sent her back to New York.  Lynore also suffered acl damage in her last Spring League game with the Flames, but reports she is on the road to recovery.
    The Flames will play Brooklyn at ProSkate USA in Princeton this season.  However, life in New York will not be easy for the Blades, especially those close to the recovery.  Flamin' Times salutes the Brooklyn Blades.

7-31-01
Flames  Finish Spring League

    The Flames finished the Spring season with 3 wins, 3 ties, and 3 losses. Losses were to the Freeze twice and the Bobcats 1.  The Flames beat the Bobcats 2 three times  The ties were with the Freeze once and Bobcats 1 twice.
    The playoffs were held on July 29th.  The Third seeded Flames lost to the 2 seeded Bobcats in a shootout.  Terri Ney scored for the Flames, but the Bobcats tied it 1-1 early in the third.  No goals were scored through a five minute, sudden death overtime.  The fourth shooter scored for the Bobcats in the subsequent shootout.
    The Flames five shooters, in order were Andrea Catoya, Terri Ney, Bridget Williams, Kristin Battestella, and Karen DiSantis.  Annie Fetter was in net for the Flames.
    Joining the Flames this Spirng league were Andy Nonne, Jenn DeJesus, Karen Lubberman,   Helen Kosekowski, Arlene Douge, Donna Heldenberg, and Abby Greenstein.  Donna, Abby, and Helen will play on the Flames this fall.

2000-2001 Concord Flames Award Winners

Top Scorer: Bridget Williams
Face-Off Percentage: Karen DiSantis
Offensive Defenseman: Lynore Abbott
Top Defenseman: Laurel Molchinski
Team Spirit: Alex Molchinski
Most Improved Defenseman: Kristin Battestella
Best Rookie: Terri Ney
Sponsorship Award: The Conference Group
Coach's Appreciation: Lou Battestella
Top Playmaker: Patti Buck
Perfect Attendance: Kristin Battestella
Team MVP: Terri Ney
 

2000-2001 Captains- Brenda Greenhawk (c), Andrea Mayo (a), Deby Bright (a)
2000-2001 Season leaders Overall (league and non league) Final season statistics and Roster notes available on the Flames Website.

Flames’ Playoffs April 7th
    The Flames are In!  The TWHL B Division Playoffs will be held Saturday April 7th.  All three playoff games will be held the 7th at Pro Skate. Located in Princeton, New Jersey.
    The Princeton Tigers will play the Quarry Cats in the first game, with the Flames matching up with the Brooklyn Blades in the first round.

The Flames’ Secret Weapon: The Bandana

     A breakout forward, a star goalie, maybe an unfalable system. The Flames need none of that when they wear the enigmatic Bandana.
Sure, to some it is only fabric.  Fabric to absorb sweat and to hold hair back, apparently a must in the women’s game.

    "So my hair don’t get in my face," no nonsense goalie Deb Taylor explains the enduring appeal of the bandana.
    "Because it absorbs sweat," Alternate captian Andrea Mayo states.

On the Flames, four players wear a bandana at least regularly.
    Center Kelly Breeden, Captain Brenda Greenhawk, Wing Karen DiSantis, and D-gal Lynore Abbott have donned the weapon in the past.
"Sometimes. If I’m in the right mood," explains Winger Nina Ditrolio.

     How could such a simple piece of material provide such an impact?
When asked about the lure of the bandana-as to sweat stopping or tacky appeal, Alternate captain Deb Bright explains her and bandana tag team partner Holly Bennett draw to the bandana.
"Its both.  We can be [on the ice] together in spirit."
"Yup…It serves two purposes,"  agrees Dr. Bennett.

    Bright and Bennett don’t
just have ordinary bandanas.  Their collection ranges from your basic black, to cupids,  chili peppers and camoflauge. "They are the tacky ones," Holly says of the chilli peppers and cupids.  "But I think I like the army one  the best."

    Whether for sweat or fashion, the appeal of the bandana from both ends is swaying D-girl Cathy Lane to wear a bandana.
"I was thinking about it."

Flames Team Photos on the Way
    February 23rd was a special night for the Flames.  Team and individual photos were taken during the team’s 10:45 practice slot.
    Every player was in attendance. Joining the team where Head coach Chip Mayo, Assistant Coaches Gary Greenhawk, Mike Kriwonos, and John Distantis.
    Also in the team photo where Shots Assitant Lou Battestella, Team Mom Ginger Greenhawk, and Chris-our Video Specialist. The photos should arrive in several weeks.

Special Thanks to Susan DiStantis for our Team Photos!

  Flames Have Ringing in Their Ears

     It is a growing fear in all levels of hockey.  Rule changes, better equipment, awareness plans still can’t seem to stop the growing number of concussions in the sport.
Reportledly, at least four Flames have had concussions, and each player wasn’t sure about the number.
Forward Karen DiSantis and Defenseman Kristin Battestella each count four head-knocks.
    "All of my concussions happened before I played [hockey] with women," says Battestella.  "I think it was four.  The incidents kind of blur together and you don’t really remember so it’s tought to tell how many. Four or Five."
    In the supposedly more finesse women’s game, Center Kelly Breeden and Captain Brenda Greenhawk have also sustained two concussions each.

    What is more disturbing is the off-ice effects a concussion can have on any player.
    Karen’s mother Susan DiSantis explains the off-ice problems.  Doctors, x-rays, Nuerologists… Karen’s injuries force her to wear a specialized helmet and a mouthguard.
     What is probably the most threating situations is the permanet damage.  Karen could develop serious eye problems if she has any more trauma.
    "They sent her home… They said she was not functional in school," Mrs. DiSantis says.
"It’s scary."

     USA Hockey battles concussions off the ice with its programs to inform players, coaches, and parents about head injuries.
     USA Hockey informs coaches on the do’s and don’t’s of concussion first aid, Second Impact Syndrome, or symptoms and side effects.
     America’s amateur hockey governing body also praises its ‘Heads Up Hockey’ program.
     Heads Up Hockey is designed to teach players the right way to check or take a hit, thus hopefully minimizing the hits-from-behind that can cause head and neck injuries.
     Videos and phamplets are available from USA Hockey, and their website www.usahockey.com has an extensive section on concussions-how to prevent them and how to deal with them after.

Flames, Phantoms Team Up

    This year, the Phantoms celebrate the women’s game in the Delaware Valley with its Women in Hockey Night.    Women’s teams in the area were invited to attend the January 21st Phantoms game at a bargain price.

    For the past three years, the Phantoms have teamed up with women’s teams in the area and held ‘post-game’ events that included a women’s game after the Phantoms

    This year, TWHL C teams will play against each other at the Spectrum on February 18th, before a Phantoms game.
Last year, the Flames played January 2nd at the First Union Center, regular home of the Flyers.
 

Flamin’ Times Changes Format

     It is the first season of Flamin’ Times, the official newsletter of the Concord Flames, and the kinks have been ironed out and the staff is ready to report the latest on the Flames.

"This season has been great," says ‘Times Editor Kristin Battestella.  "The team, coaches, parents-everyone involved with the Flames and the TWHL have really kept FT on top of the team goings-on."

    With a small staff and a limited subject matter, Flamin’ Times is switching to a four times a season format.  "This year FT was printed on a semi-irregular basis. We want to pinpoint the issues to a quarterly format during the hockey season."

    Flamin Times will now be published in the fall, two winter issues, and the spring. Or roughly September,  November/December, January,  and March.

Bright Returns, Brightens Lineup

     Deb Bright returned to the Flames lineup Sunday.  The alternate captain scored a goal in a 5-3 win over the Univeristy of Penn Quakers.

Terri Ney had a hat trick December 10th against UPenn!  The Flames won, 5-3.

Flames Near Halfway Mark ; League Record 2-2-1

     The Flames first league game was October 14th, and the next league game is not until January 20th.  Thru December, the Flames are 2-2-1 in league play.

    The Flames beat U of Penn and The Quarry Cats at home.  Both losses came on the road at Hackensack against The Blades and in Princeton.  The Flames lone tie came December 2nd against the Quarry Cats at Floyd Hall.
 

Flames Stylin’ This Season

     Every team has off ice merchandise, and the Flames are no different.
 Last year the team ordered jackets and breakaways from two different companies.

Hence, the two weren’t a perfect match.

This Holiday season, everyone gets new pants-pants that match. Both the pants and jackets were done by Paramount Promotions-by our own John DiSantis.

New players are getting double- jackets and pants. Anyone can order a jacket for about $90.
 

Flames Have Teeth and Christmas Wishes

     Maybe in the NHL there is still  a bit of the old cliché of a toothless hockey player, but not so much in the women’s game-probably because of full face shields.

    Nonetheless, even the youngest Concord Flame is too old to loose her front teeth.  The gang has other Hockey wishes this season.

 "I wish I could skate faster, score more goals, and never have a forward beat me," imagines Captain Brenda Greenhawk.

"For Christmas I want each player to improve as much as possible-and of course, win more games," Head Coach Chip Mayo takes one for the team.

Turn to Page 2 for more of the Flames’ Christmas Hockey Wishes!
 
 

Rub Your Bottles…Here’s More Wishes!

Laurel Molchinski (F)- Laurel’s wish is for a hat trick this season.

Kristin Battestella (D)- ‘I want an awesome wrist shot like Dan McGillis.’

Karen DiSantis (F)- ‘I want to have 55 points-my number’

Lynore Abbott (D)- ‘I want Five to Ten goals this season.’

Deb Bright (F)- ‘My hockey wish is to be able to play again, and of course stay out of the penalty box when I do!’
 

Black Cat, Superstitious Hockey Player Ahead!
 

     This month’s issue of FT we are dispersing the myth of a hockey player.  No toothless grins, no pre-game meal worship, no tape of The Young & The Restless.

"I don’t think about that stuff," Courtney Berkholtz reveals.
 What about goalies? Surely, they are the most feared and fearing.

"Before faceoff I tap my posts, " Deb Taylor admits, although goaltender Lisa Ferrara refused to admit any superstitious behavior to this reproter.  Deb also says she won’t go behind her net.

   Newcomer Terri Ney just does, "Whatever Works."
Kelly Breeden says, "I take it to an extreme level."

Head Coach-and goalie- Chip Mayo gives    a speech, "I try to do things before a game as consistently and repetitively as possible.
Eat at the same time, drive the same way to the rink…"
Okay.

    The tradition seems intact, although many people have the ‘it happens for a reason’  philosphy.  Somewhere, there will always be a locker room with a tape ball, and the Flames are no exception!

Fundraising Gets Boost This Season

    Fundraising is a little different this year, and hopefully for the better.
Fundraising volunteers Ginger Greenhawk and John DiSantis selected the eight fundraisers this season-up from three last season. The big change this year-the profits come directly off your fees.  Last year, profits went to the league treasury.
"If a player sells every monthly fundraiser and succeeds she could possibly play for free!" says Ginger. Fundraising is  voluntary this year.
 Fundraisers are based on a 45-50% profit, and "They are products everyone uses or needs," quips Ginger.

Most popular are the Entertainment Books, which sell through December.  Each book is $25.00 with a $5.00 return. "They are worth hundreds of dollars in coupons…It adds up!" There is a fundraiser for every month.  Sally Foster Gift wrap in November, CherryDale Farms and Gourmet Coffee in December and January.  Dutch Mill Bulbs are for sale in February.
 Last Season, Holly Bennett sold $67.00 in coffee, and the Sally Foster giftwrap was a ‘great success’ says Ginger.  "Fundraising will skyrocket once the ladies see how easy it is."

Captains Ready for Season

    Captain Brenda Greenhawk, Alternate Deby Bright, and Alternate Andrea Mayo explain the importance of the ‘C’ and ‘A’s to a team.
"I’m very honest and speak my opinion," Brenda says of being vocal.
"I want to be whatever the team needs me to be," West Chester U’s Mayo says.

    Trust, respect, and encouragement are important, says East Stroudsburg grad Deby.  "The importance of leadership is critical to team success."
 Brenda has the ‘utmost respect’ for Deby and Andrea.  "I think we are good together."
"We can really work hard and create a good environment for everyone," says Andrea.
 Says Deb, "Andrea is a great new addition and strong asset.  Brenda is enthusiastic and positive. We support each other."

    Support aside, the captains expect more this season. "Everyone has a much better outlook on things," Brenda pipes. Andrea agrees.
"Win or lose, we will all learn something…This year will be positive regardless of where we finish."  Deb wants those positives. "We have a great group of girls.  Teamwork is our number one priority, and winning a close second.  Without teamwork, winning will not happen."

Head Coach Chip Mayo Reveals All!

  New Flames head coach Chip Mayo speaks for the first time this season, with more to come. Mayo bares all about his systems, defense, offensive, and the methods to his madness.
 Mayo deals with a ‘constant battle’ about the level of his players.  Playing A himself, Mayo’s goal is to challenge the advanced, but not leave the average player behind, "No matter what the level," says Mayo.

    Mayo says things will be different this year now that he is head coach. "Absolutely.  I feel the emphasis has to be on team concepts.  If these concepts are practiced, the individual’s skills will improve almost by accident."
 He’s got quite a mixed bunch this season, only eight returning players. However, Coach Chip isn’t worried.  "Within sports, egos are always the biggest concern for a coach.  We’ve got a good bunch here.  I expect good things."

    Is Mayo worried about his goaltending? Nonsense.  "I believe they will be the strong point of our team by the end of the season.  Lisa, her focus and determination have always impressed me-we won a Spring league together.  Debbie’s work ethic and physical strength are eye-catching.  She may be the strongest player on the team." Mayo says his team is going to be full of skill and attitude!

Head Coach Holds Nothing Back!
  Chip Mayo speaks again, and bares everything his players and coaches will want to know.
Off the get-go, Mayo explains his teams need offense and attitude.  "With the skill and attitude o the new forwards, there are going to b e nights I have to pull them in."  Mayo also explains the lure of the plus/minus stat.  "Over the long run, plus/minus tells me plenty about a player."

    Mayo warns, however, the stat can be misleading.  Many players with a minus rating are lining up against the other teams best. "Don’t look at a player that is minus 3 and tell me she’s having a bad year compared to someone who’s plus 4. It can be a misleading stat."

    May also says he goals and assists.  A passing game is just as important as the goals scored.  "I believe you need both styles to be a good team."  Balance is the key to defense, says Mayo.  "Speed, physical play, smarts, and aggressiveness need to be used at all times to be the
kind of defense we need to be."

    As to being labeled a defensive coach, Mayo ‘hates’ it, although, ‘Defense Wins!’
"You need both ends of the ice to win," says Mayo. Mayo also explains his bench philosophies.  "I don’t want an assistant trying to do too much…I felt it was important to give each person a job to focus on."

    Mayo muses, "I love this coaching staff…a good group of people each with a specific job."

On Mike Bufano: "Probably one of the most talented guys I’ve played with.  He has skill, skill, skill…"

On Gary Greenhawk: "Defense is his natural draw…I don’t know where I’d be without him.  Gary has been with me since the organization started."

On John DiSantis: "Putting his in charge of offense was a no-brainer…He’s the most offensive guy I know…You have to be quick in everything that’s done…to run lines…John is perfect for the role.

On Mike Kriwonis: "He could  be the most important person I’ve got.  He will do it all as it is needed.  His positive attitude is very important…"

On Stephanie Spunt: "I never thought I would hand over my goalies to anybody… Her fresh outlook and new ideas made me realize she could do a better job than me."

     Now, what does Coach Mayo expect?  "I want each player to learn team concepts," Mayo says.  "We will be a good team, and the players will improve individually, if these concepts are learned."
 Mayo says how quick the turnaround will result is in, "What the players do when they’re away from the team.  Off Ice work can improve a player as much as practice."

    Mayo says the secret is in asking ‘What can I do at home to make myself better?’
"The team is loaded with only quality people so good things Will happen!"
 Mayo was very personable in this interview, vowing also he’ll do whatever is needed to make the Times a success. To each his own!
 

The Names of the Latest Flames!

     It is the brink of a new season, and The Concord Flames are ready to start the new season with players new and old alike.
 Ringing in the top line is new starting center, #21, Alexis Petrin.  #41 Nina DiTrolio is also new up front for the Flames this year.

    Alternates returning in full-fledged rolls this year include #23 Cathy Lane,  #35 Holly Bennett, and #55 Karen DiSantis.  Holly and Karen played with the Delco Sting last season, as did goaltender #30, Debbie Taylor.

    Joining Taylor in the nets will be #39 Lisa Ferrara, who did duty last season with the Outlaws.  Ferrara is joined by former Outlaws teammate #7 Patti Buck.

    Several of the Flames this season have moved up from the Tri-State Women’s League including #13 Laurel Mochinski, of the Crunch and # 34 Bridget Williams, and # 10 Courtney Berkholtz.
 Newcomers on Defense are #15 Lynore Abbott, #11 Michelle O’Toole, and #19 Amy Boyle. Returning Captain #9 Brenda Greenhawk, #4 Andrea Mayo, and #24 Kristin Battestella round out the blueline.

     Forwards Chris Keller and ‘A’ Deby Bright-#s 73 and 77, respectively-return along with the team’s youngest, #91 Kelly Breeden.
 The team will sport color-coordinated shells and   practice jerseys on the ice.  Team hats and warm-ups give the flare off the ice.
 

New Coaches Behind the Bench!

     New faces abound this season on and off the ice for the Concord Flames.  This season, the team welcomes behind the bench Stephanie Spunt.  Ms. Spunt will direct the goaltending end of the team.  She tends nets herself at the A-level.

    Working on Skill Development this season is veteran Mike Bufano, long time teammate of new head coach Chip Mayo.  Mayo was an assistant last season.

    Also returning from last season are John DiSantis, leading the offense, and Gary Greenhawk, guiding defense and nutrition.  Ginger Greenhawk also continues in her duties as Team Mom and Team Spirit.

    Some things don’t change.  Iceworks, a twin rink facility in Aston, Pa. Continues to be the home base for the team.
 

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