ROLLIE BOURASSA – K-9 PATS MASCOT - 30 YEARS

“It all started back in the year 1978,” stated Rollie Bourassa, Regina Pats Mascot. “The name of the mascot has changed several times.” Bourassa, a commercial artist at the time, was asked to design a mascot for the Pats that would also reflect Labatt (Breweries), their sponsor. The original K-9 (meaning dog, as in canine), was called "Big Blue." The colour reflected the team and Labatts, as well as pop culture at the time, with the movie Big Blue and the country western song "My Dog Blue" which dictated the choice of animal and the nickname.

"I did K-9 for a couple of games to see if it worked OK. Whatever I was doing they thought it was OK and they asked, 'Would you keep doing it until we find somebody?'. Thirty some years later, they're still trying to find someone!" said Bourassa. "But it was fun, and my wife (Bea) and I were hockey fans anyway, so we were going to games. She still comes to the games and sits in the stands.

After awhile Rollie soon realized he needed smaller feet for going up and down the stairs. But his design to see through the nose and the chin (to see his feet) have been major assets in the Brandt Centre while he runs, bounces, skates and slides down railings.

The Pats aren't the only team K-9's been a part of. At the start of the 1980's, the Canadian Olympic team needed a mascot while playing across Canada. K-9 changed jerseys and Bourassa hopped on flights to get around the country on weekends.

Over the years sponsorship changed and another brewery became a major sponsor of the WHL. Blue was out and for awhile it seemed as if K-9 would be put to sleep. But then Bourassa got a call asking if K-9 could be made a different colour. So K-9 became red, and showed up again at the start of the season. Despite the fact the change came about 20 years ago, Bourassa said he still hears calls from people as "Big Blue."

(Photo: Kevin Shaw (4 or 5 years old) and Big Blue - Kevin Shaw Collection)

K-9's antics have changed a bit over time. At one time rinks had organists to play music throughout the arena. "The organist would watch for me and, if he couldn't find me, he'd start playing, 'Oh where, oh where has my little dog gone?' "said Bourassa. "And when the referee made a bad call he would start playing 'Smoke gets in your eyes' and I'd be out there wiping my eyes. But pretty soon we were told we couldn't ridicule anyone and the music changed."

Bourassa's spirit and energy bounding through the arena, giving high fives and hugs, playing the drums, and raising the spirits of fans. At age 73, (2009) Bourassa said he still feels like a kid and K-9 is probably a large reason for that. When people ask when he's going to retire, Bourassa replies, "When I can't do it anymore."

Every game brings a different story. While Bourassa tries not to walk around without K-9's head on, a young girl once spotted him under the concourse cooling off with K-9's head tipped back. She began hyperventilating because "K-9 was eating a man!" until she was brought down to meet Bourassa and the situation was explained.

Another time Bourassa grabbed a player's stick for a puck-shooting contest he had to take part in. He went to shoot but couldn't turn the stick, and then noticed a piece of the stick had gone right through his finger, shooting through a nerve. The doctor took care of him, then sent K-9 to the doctor for a tetanus shot. (Photo: Bryan Schlosser - Regina Leader Post)

I can remember there was the time K-9 decided to go swimming. "We used to have the hot tub" said Bourassa. "And during the last game of the year, K-9 thought he'd be smart and went up the steps and jumped in. Little did I know that all the foam and material took on every bit of water it could. They couldn't get me out. When I did get out, I couldn't even walk. We hung it up, and three days later it was still dripping. It took almost a week to dry out."

But K-9, of course, is not limited to Regina Pats home games. K-9 is in the community throughout the year, at various events, parades, appearances, promotions and fund raisers, often with players from the Regina Pats. Some of Bourassa's favourite things to do are visiting the children's ward at the hospital at Christmas, or going to seniors' centres or to school safety patrols.

When Bourassa can't make it, Danny Massier, who has been doing mascots for years, steps in to help out. Rollie Bourassa still enjoys what he does and has fun with K-9 every time they're out.

Bourassa said, "K-9's a fixture, he's just part of the organization, who will continue as long as he's having fun. The best part of it all is just seeing people's faces, the big smiles, and all the little kids running around and wanting hugs."

1979-1980 - SEASON - NINE BUSINESS MEN BUY REGINA PATS

PINDER'S BUY MAIN PORTION of PATS FRANCHISE



The Pinder family from Saskatoon; Herb, Gerry, Dick, Herb Sr., and Ross had controlling interest of Pats franchise, Wil Klein, Ross Sneath, Gord Knowlton, and Bob Strumm also held shares of the owner- ship. The nine owners bought the Pats during the summer of 1979 until 1983 when Herb became the sole owner.


Bob Strumm former sportswriter, columnist for the Saskatoon Star-Phoenix and general-manager for Billing Bighorns for two years, was named general manager. He brought in coach Bryan Murray from the east to coach the Pats and led the club to the Memorial Cup final in the first year. It was the first time in League history that a last-place team in one season became the champions the following season. (Photo: Bryan Murray)

1979-1980 REGINA PATS ROSTER - Goalies: Bart Hunter, Darren Wilcox, Dave Ross, Darryl Kuntz Defense: Darren Veitch, Bud Langstrom, Barry Trotz, Jeff Marshall, Kelly Livingston, Allan May, Garth Butcher, John McMillan, Mike Rainville Centre: Doug “Wick” Wickenheiser (Captain), Ron Flockhart, Darren Galley, Jock Callander, Wade Dawson, Jim McGeough Right Wing: Mike Blaisdell, Bill Ansell, Brent Pascal, Glen Sorenson, Bob Babchuk, Ron Propp, Dave Michayluk Left Wing: Brian Varga, Darren Bobyck, Barry "Mad Dog" Ziegler, Kevin Burns, Darren Galley, Terry Baratta N/K: Rand Coach: Bryan Murray Coach and General Manager: Bob Strumm Trainer: Peter Kreutz Statistician: Jim Loria

In October, 1979 Mike Blaisdell decides to rejoin the Regina Pats after playing last season with the University of Wisconsin. After a couple years of operation it was announced, on Tuesday, April 10, 1979 the Edmonton Oil Kings were being sold by owners Bill Hunter, Vic Mah, Ed and George Assely, Ed Huges, Wayne Tennant to Pat Cooper of Portland, Oregon. They moved the team to Great Falls, Montana, were they were known as the Americans and they later moved to Spokane. The reason for the move was the poor support the team had received.

It was a Pats year for records: At Regina Saturday, November 11, before 3,001 fans Doug Wickenheiser scored a power play goal at 19 seconds of the first period. Pats went on to score a record seven consecutive power play goals in the first period and nine power play goals in the game as they downed the Medicine Hat Tigers 13-3. In the following game, for the second time Doug scored the opening goal at 41 seconds for a club record; fastest two consecutive opening game goals.

On Wednesday, January 2, at Regina, the Pats ended their 28 consecutive power play goal game streak. At Regina on February 1, Doug Wickenheiser, scored a power play goal to bring his total to twenty-seven, a new club record, as the Pats downed the Billings Bighorns 11-3, before 3,871 Pat onlookers. Wednesday, February 13, Darren Veitch had a goal to bring his season total as a defenseman to 21, another team record. The following Sunday, Darren once again set a new club record, this time for assists as he had two to bring his season total to 93. He went on to have 122 points for the season, another club record as a defenseman.

Rookie right winger Mike Blaisdell recorded his 57th. goal to set a club record and went on to score 71 goals during the League schedule. During the 1974-75 season Don Murdoch of Medicine Hat Tigers scored 82 goals, still a WHL record for a rookie. Wednesday, March 19, before 4,025 fans at the Agridome. Pats downed second place Calgary 15-9, a WHL record for most goals by both clubs; also most goals in one period, as both clubs scored fourteen goals in the second period. Pats outscored the Wranglers 8-6 in what must have been a goalies night mare. Rookie Mike Blaisdell scored 5 goals and had 3 assists for 8 points during the game. At the end of the regular schedule, Regina Pats had five players hit the 100 point plateau. It tied a WHL record, set by Medicine Hat Tigers in the 1971-72 season.

It was a year were the Regina Pat fans could see that their team would be playing in the Memorial Cup series right in their own back yard. What was about to happen at the end of the season is another chapter.

The Great Falls Americans withdrew from the League after only 28 scheduled games, the franchise was moved to Spokane. The Western Division had only four teams. It was the first time two teams finished with over one hundred points. Pats had three players make the WHL All-Star Team: Defenseman Darren Veitch and Centre Doug Wickenheiser on the first team, while Mike Blaisdell was selected to the second team.

WHL AWARD WINNERS – REGINA PATS: Most Valuable Player, Player of the Year, Top League Scorer - Doug Wickenheiser

REGINA PAT AWARDS - Top Rookie (Nick Pappas Memorial Trophy) Ron Flockhart; Most Sportsmanlike Player (The Hub Bishop Memorial Trophy) Darren Bobyck; Top Defenseman (Charles Johnston Memorial Trophy) Darren Veitch; Most Valuable Player (The Barkers Trophy) Doug Wickenheiser, Darren Veitch (Tied); Pats Top Scorer, Doug Wickenheiser; Most Popular Player, Brian Varga; Most Improved Player, Mike Blaisdell; Unsung Hero (Booster Club Award) Bart Hunter

QUARTER PLAY-OFFS - Tuesday, March 25, Lethbridge Broncos almost made an upset as they were down 8-4 going into the last period at the Agridome. Three goals in the final twenty minutes was not enough for coach Vic Stasiuk's Broncos as they were edged 8-7 by Regina. The opening period had both clubs scoring four goals before Pats came up with four straight goals after forty minutes of play. The third was all Lethbridge as Kim Boech scored all of Broncos goals. Mike Blaisdell was Regina's top scorer with 3 goals and 2 assists.

Wednesday, March 26, Regina walked all over Lethbridge 9-2 at the Agridome. It started in the second period with Pats coach Bryan Murray and Lethbridge coach Vic Stasiuk, trying to match line for line. Murray got the last line change and the battle of wits began to show. Gord Williams of the Broncos was trying to match against Pats' Doug Wickenheiser. Wick was being held and hooked, so he changed lines. Lethbridge led 1-0 after the first on Williams' goal. Pats went ahead 4-2 after the second. In the third, coach Murray turned the tables around and put the Sorenson-Callander-Ziegler line against Williams as Blaisdell and Wickenheiser scored two goals each.

Friday, March 28, Despite not playing up to their potential Regina Pats, were able to come through and defeat Lethbridge 7-4 at the Sportsplex. The game was dull, neither team played the type of game they were capable of. Regina’s Bud Langstrom's goal, a long wrist shot off Broncos defenceman Roger Wolfe in the first period, gave Regina a 1-0 going into the second. Regina had 3 goals followed by Lethbridge with 3 before Regina scored 3 straight in the final period. Pats' Brian Varga and Williams had two goals apiece.

Saturday, March 29, Regina defeated Vic Stasiuk's Lethbridge Broncos 4-3 and swept their quarter-final series four straight. Had it not been for former Pat netminder, Greg Dumba, and Doug Morrison, the Broncos could have been beaten quite handily. Dumba made his last junior game a great one by pulling off numerous exceptional saves. Morrison, one of the finest players in the WHL, scored Lethbridge's three goals. Darren Veitch led Regina's scoring with two goals. The game was played before the lowest attendance in the Bronco's six year franchise history.

EASTERN LEAGUE ROUND ROBIN SERIES

- Friday, April 4, Pats thrilled an overflow crowd (5,798) at the Regina Agridome defeating Brandon Wheat Kings 6-3. Regina's goalie Bart Hunter kept the Pats in the game, especially in the first-two periods. The netminder made 39 saves, many of which were hard shots. During the second period defenseman John McMillan made a save that stood out. Hunter had left his net racing half way to the blue line after a loose puck that had gotten away from him. Brandon's Don Gillen gained control of the puck but his shot was blocked by McMillan in the goal crease. Both clubs were tied 2-2 after the first and Pats took a 3-2 lead into the third period. Pats Wickenheiser had two goals for Regina.

Saturday, April 5, Medicine Hat Tigers scored seconds into sudden death overtime to give them a 7-6 victory at the Agridome. Brant Klessing scored the winning goal at 49 seconds of the extra period. Pats goalie Bart Hunter tried to play the puck off the boards. Klessing got behind Hunter and had the open net to score. Tigers top scorer was Brad Kempthorne with three goals. His third goal tied the game at 10:53 of the third, just 20 seconds after the Pats had taken the lead. Ron Flockhart was the Pats big gun scoring three goals. Medicine Hat's goalie Kelly Hrudy played a solid game facing 48 shots, 25 in the final period.

Wednesday, April 9, Regina lost their second straight game in the Round Robin Series at Brandon, losing 6-3. Both clubs held the same record, one win and two losses. Pats missed Brian Varga, especially on the power play as he was sidelined with a shoulder injury. It was Brandon's goalie Ron Popplestone who led the Kings to victory as he faced 46 shots. Brandon had scored 4 goals on Pats defenseman's miscues and all their 6 goals were scored by different players.

Friday, April 11, Pats' goalie Bart Hunter was the hero and the major reason for Regina's 3-1 win over Medicine Hat in Tiger town. The 20 year old faced 41 shots, many in which he was severely tested. Pats loss would have eliminated them from the series. The big difference in the game, besides Hunter, was their power play. Pats scored all their goals with a man advantage. It gave them 15 goals in 28 power play opportunities during the play-offs. Throughout the regular season they were number one in the League with a 33.6 percentage. Pats' Bill Ansell scored 2 goals, both in the second period while Wickenheiser scored in the third period.

Sunday, the last game of the Round Robin had Medicine Hat earning a berth in the eastern division final by defeating visiting Brandon Wheat Kings 7-5.

EASTERN ROUND ROBIN SERIES ...	GP	GW	GL	G.F	G.A	PTS
Medicine Hat Tigers	4	3	1	18	16	6
Regina Pats	4	2	2	18	17	4
Brandon Wheat Kings	4	1	3	16	19	2

EASTERN DIVISION FINAL - Monday, April 14, Tigers were flat as the Pats downed Medicine Hat 6-1 at the Regina Agridome, before 4,657 fans. Tigers' goalie Kelly Hrudey faced 48 shots. Pats had period leads of 2-0 and 3-0. It wasn't until the third period that Regina went on a scoring spree with 3 straight goals in the last 4 minutes. Out of those 3 goals, Darren Bobyck tallied twice in the span of eight seconds (16:32 and 16:40) one second off the WHL record held by Brandon's Bill Derlago in 1978 against Flin Flon.

Tuesday, April 15, a brawl marred the game in which the Pats outdid Medicine Hat Tigers 9-1 at the Agridome. Regina dominated the play but the 5,347 fans witnessed a free-for-all which got totally out of hand. It featured both bench's emptying and some brutal fights. Verbal exchanges between coach/manager Paddy Ginnell's Tigers and fans turned into players hurling sticks, gloves, and helmets into the crowd. At one point the Tigers even tried to get into the crowd. Police finally arrived, well after all this started. It all happened at 13:06 of the third period when Pats were leading 8-1 and delayed the game for 1 hour. The brawl resulted in 146 minutes to Medicine Hat and 92 minutes to Regina. Pats Mike Rainville and Darren Veitch both had 2 goals while Brian Varga had 4 assists.

Thursday, April 17, Medicine Hat tallied two quick goals in the final minutes to tie the contest then went on to down Regina 7-6 in overtime at Medicine Hat in front of 2,870 fans. Down 6-4 with less than three minutes left in regulation time, Tigers scored at at 16:14. Brad Kempthorne tied the game from the left side on a wrist shot at 19:21 to force the extra period. Tigers pressured Regina right from the starting whistle in sudden death overtime and had three good scoring chances. Steve Tsujuira finally batted the puck in from the side of the net at 3:21.

Friday, April 18, Pats came out winners as they downed Medicine Hat 5-2 in the gas city as 3,983 onlookers watched the game. Both teams were tied 1-1 after the first period and Regina led 4-2 going into the final period. The third period was scoreless until Mike Blaisdell scored into an empty net with 51 seconds remaining. It was Blaisdell's third goal of the night while Doug Wickenheiser assisted on Blaisdell's goals.

Saturday, April 19, Pats jumped over the boards when Darren Bobyck scored into an empty net with 46 seconds remaining to capture a 6-3 Regina victory. The Regina Agridome 5,141 fans saw Pats get the chance to meet Victoria in the League final. Regina's defenseman Darren Veitch took a shot 1:49 minutes into the third period that went in off a Medicine Hat player. His power play marker drew Pats even. Five minutes later Veitch scored his second to put Regina ahead to stay. Pats scored four straight goals in the final period.

WHL LEAGUE FINAL - Tuesday, April 22, Victoria 4,181 spectators saw the visiting Regina Pats earn a 6-4 victory over the Victoria Cougars at Memorial Arena. Victoria came out skating and held a 2-0 lead after the first. In the second period, Darren Veitch started the Pats scoring at 1:06 a slapshot from the point. Doug Wickenheiser then scored at 7:16 followed by Victoria with 2 goals in the span of 58 seconds to go ahead 4-2. Regina came right back with 2 quick goals: Mike Blaisdell on a break-a-way at 11:04, and Veitch with his second goal at the 12:47 mark. Both clubs were tied 4-4 going into the final period.

Wednesday, April 23, Victoria Cougars dumped Regina 7-2. Pats had a 2-1 lead going into the middle stanza then Victoria took over. Victoria went on to score five straight goals, three in less than three minutes at the sixteen minute mark of the third period. Palmer was Victoria's top scorer with 2 goals and 2 assists. "We missed a couple chances early in the second period, then fell apart. That tying goal deflated us." Pats coach Murray said, following the game.

Thursday, April 24, Darren Veitch powered the Pats to a crucial victory at Victoria as Regina edged the Cougars 4-3. It was Veitch's goal at the thirteen minute mark in the third that turned out to be the winner. He carried the puck from his own end zone and, when he reached Victoria's blueline, let a hard slapshot go. The puck rose up and went between goalie Grant Fuhr's pads into the net. Victoria had period leads of 2-0 and 2-1 after the second. In the third, Pats' Jock Callander tied the game at 2:45 only to see the home team take the lead once again at 9:29. Regina then came back with 2 goals, Bobyck at 11:44 and Veitch at 12:59.

Saturday, April 26, Pats emotion began to build as Regina defeated the Victoria Cougars 7-1 at the Agridome before a record crowd. Regina displayed a killer instinct as Wickenheiser and Ron Flockhart both scored two goals each. Pats had 3-0 and 5-0 period leads. Grant Fuhr started the game in goal for Victoria but had to be removed early in the third period. He had gloved a shot, the momentum of which sent his glove arm into a windmill motion leaving him with a dislocated shoulder.

Sunday, April 27, Regina fans saw Brent Pascal's all important overtime goal put the Regina Pats into the Memorial Cup. At the end of the game the big score board at the centre of the ice read “REGINA PATS 5 VICTORIA 4.” Pascal had been used sparingly by coach Bryan Murray. He had only scored two play-off goals to date and was only on the ice for three shifts during Saturday's encounter. It took 9:41 seconds of sudden death overtime before Pascal batted in Jock Callander's rebound to send his team mates and 5,950 fans into a celebration and the Memorial Cup Tournament. "That was the most important goal of my life." grinned Pascal in Pats' dressing room following the game. Victoria led 2-0 after the first period and Regina Pats 3-2 after the second period. Victoria peppered 48 shots at Pat goal tender Bart Hunter. (Photo: Regina Pats Captain - Doug Wickenheiser hosting the League Trophy - Marcia Wickenheiser - Collection)

Peterborough Petes beat Windsor Spitfires 6-3 Saturday (it was their 11th straight play-off win), while three days later Cornwall Royals defeated Sherbrooke Beavers 5-3 and won the series 4-2.

MEMORIAL CUP FINALIST - The first three games of the Memorial Tournament were played at the Brandon Keystone Centre in Manitoba, the remaining games were moved to Regina Agridome.

Sunday, May 4, Pats were defeated 5-4 in overtime before 4,055 fans as Peterborough Petes of the Ontario Junior Hockey League. Petes' Mark Reed's quick slapshot at 3:52 of sudden death was the winner. Regina Pats centre Doug Wickenheiser and Peterborough's Bill Gardner took the face off at the left circle of Regina's goalie Bart Hunter. Reed saw the loose puck, took one stride towards it, and shot the puck into the net for the victory. Peterborough took a 3-0 lead into the middle frame. In the second Pats scored two answered goals by Darren Bobyck and one minute later Mike Blaisdell scored on a break-a-way. Regina tied the score early in the third by Glen Sorenson's rebound shot passed goalie Rick LaFerriere. Petes took the lead three minutes later on Andre Hidi's goal. Pats pressed and at 18:36 Brian Varga tipped in Darren Veitch's slapshot from the point to tie the game and force it into overtime.

Monday, May 5, it was a disappointing night as 3,540 saw Regina lose its second game, this time 5-3 to Cornwall Royals of the Quebec Junior Major Hockey League. Three Pat players, Mike Rainville, John McMillan and Darren Galley had played for Cornwall the previous season. Cornwall were able to apply plenty of pressure. Pats big scorers were not producing. Cornwall directed 54 shots at Regina goaltender Bart Hunter. Darren Veitch scored two power play goals, both scored on shots from the mid blueline. Pats other goal was tallied by Brian Varga at 18:43 of the third. Cornwall's top scorer was Marc Crawford with two.

Wednesday, May 7, Pats lost 4-3 to Peterborough at the Regina Agridome as 6,008 fans saw the game. Pats held a 3-0 lead after the second, only to see the Petes come back and score four goals in the third period. It left the Pats and their record supporting fans stunned. In the second period Peterborough's coach Mike Keenan was getting under Pats' coach Bryan Murray's skin. Petes' assistant captain Bill Gardner repeatedly asked referee Glen Agar to examine Regina's Doug Wickenheiser's glove. With Agar not co-operating, Keenan called his troops to the bench. It resulted in a bench penalty. Then Agar examined the glove and gave Doug Wickenheiser a penalty for an illegal glove that had a hole in its palm. It upset the Pat players as it was not cut but caused by wear. This all occurred at the 15:56 mark of the third period.

Thursday, May 8, 5,884 spectators saw that Regina Pats were back in form as they got their offence on track and hammered Cornwall 11-2. Mike Blaisdell and linemate Ron Flockhart triggered six points apiece, tying the Memorial Cup record for most points in a game. Joe Contini and Rick Seiling of the Hamilton Fincups had six points apiece in a game against New Westminster Bruins on May 13, 1976. Blaisdell finished with three goals and three assists, while Flockhart tallied twice and assisted on four goals. Pats led 2-0 after the opening frame and increased their lead 7-1 going into the third period.

Friday, May 9, with only one minute and 20 seconds left in the game, many of the Agridome fans let loose their frustration. At one point it was obvious that Cornwall was going to win as Peterborough held back. Royals went on to take the game 5-4 and the Pat 5,823 fans displayed their feelings as some chanted "Petes go home." The fans were upset over Peterborough letting Cornwall win just so they would not have to play the Regina Pats in the final. The Petes finally layed down and died in the final period. Soft drinks, programs and even a bottle were hurled at the Peterborough players. After a delay of fifteen minutes, and the appearance of Regina's finest, the game continued with the fans booing. Petes entered the contest with three wins and a 14 game winning streak in the post-season.

Sunday, May 11, Robert Savard's goal at 1:28 of overtime gave Cornwall the Memorial Cup.



Front Row: Darren Wilcox, Peter Kreutz (Trainer), Darren Veitch, Bryan Murray (Coach), Doug Wickenheiser, Bob Strumm (General Manager), Ron Flockhart, Jim Loria (Office Manager), Bart Hunter Second Row: Roy Vandal (Marketing Manager), Jock Callander, Kevin Burns, Mike Blaisdell, Wade Dawson, Jeff Marshall, Brent Pascal, Barry Ziegler, Darren Galley, Bud Langstrom Third Row: Barry Trotz, Bill Ansell, Mike Rainville, Glen Sorenson, John McMillan, Darren Bobyck, Brian Varga (Photo: Darren Bobyck - Collection)

1978-1979 - SEASON

Regina Pats hire Gregg Pilling as their new coach. Gregg played semi-pro from 1964-65 t0 1971-72. Coached Roanoke Valley Rebels from 1972-73 to 1973-74. Then was Coach and General Manager of Philadelphia Firebirds (NAHL) from 1974-75 to 1976-77. Finally Coached Fort Wayne Komets during the 1977-78 season.

Regina Pats' Del Wilson becomes Executive Assistant (Vice President) of the WHL. On Wednesday, April 19, 1978, Calgary Realtor, Jim Morley, purchased the Calgary Wranglers from majority owner Gerry Brisson. ............................. (Photo: Gregg Pilling)

In 1978, the League changed its name to the Western Hockey League to show that they were no longer just Canadian. Teams from across the USA border; Portland, Seattle and Billings were now part of the League as well.

Flin Flon Bombers' franchise moved to Edmonton under Bill Hunter and restaurant owner Vic Mah. The new club became known as the new Edmonton Oil Kings.

1978-1979 REGINA PATS ROSTER - Goalies: Jeff Lastiwka, Gam Burnett, Greg Dumba, Ken McNabb, Barry Wilcox, Al Wiebe Defense: Darren Veitch, Dave Monson, Trevor Bowering, Allan May, Chris Kilcher, Kelly Livingston, Bruce McLean, Darren Hagen, Mitch Jones, James Pearson, Lance Davis, Gregg Lynott, Brian Inkster, Tim Wicijowski, Ted Vail, Centre: Doug Wickenheiser, Jari Helle, Jock Callander, Kevin Burns, Wade Dawson, Dean Solheim, John Eger, Doyle Wankel, Wayne Merkel, James Pearson Right Wing: Dirk Graham (Captain), Darren Bobyck, Brent Pascal, Ron Propp, Paul Kindrachuk, Larry Jones, James Pearson, Dale Goegan, George Trainor Left Wing: Brian Varga, Ron Parent, Bill Ansell, Barry Ziegler, Jim Leavins, Garth Baratta, Larry Jones, Kimmo Lahtinen, Sandy Beadle, Don Henry, Ron Seidlik Coach: Greg Pilling Assistant Coach: Gerry Zrymiak Manager: Del Wilson Trainer: Norm Fong

Friday, December 8, Doug Wickenheiser scored 4 goals and had 3 assists for a seven point outing as Regina downed visiting Saskatoon 12-6. All his four goals came in the first period. The following Wednesday, December 13, the Brandon Wheat Kings suffered their first loss in 49 League games, going back to last season. Tuesday, April 10, 1979, Edmonton Oil Kings' owners Bill Hunter, Vic Mah, Ed and George Assely, Ed Hughes, Wayne Tennant sold their franchise to a Portland, Oregon, group and the franchise moved to Great Falls, Montana. Reason for the move was the poor support the team had received that year.

There were no overtime games during the regular schedule. Regina Pats finished in fourth and last place in the East Division Standings. Regina Pats' Right Winger Dirk Graham is selected on the WHL Second All-Star Team.

For the second consecutive year in a row Regina Pats did not make the play-offs. Brandon Wheat Kings became the Western League champions in six games over the Portland Winter Hawks. It was Peterborough Petes (OHA) and Trois-Rivieres Draveurs (QMJHL) from the east. The Memorial Cup tournament was staged in the three Quebec cities of Sherbrooke, Trois-Rivieres and Verdun. The Championship game had Peterborough winning in overtime 2-1 against Brandon Wheat Kings.


Front Row: Ken McNabb, Darren Veitch, Greg Pilling (Coach & General Manager), Dirk Graham, Jerry Zrymiak (Assistant Coach), Trevor Bowering, Jeff Lastiwka Middle Row: Al Wielgoz (Assistant Trainer), Jim Pearson, Barry Ziegler, Kevin Burns, Greg Lynott, Doug Wickenheiser, Brian Inkster, Lance Davis, George Trainor, Ron Parent, Norm Fong (Trainer) Back Row: Brian Varga, Dean Solheim, Doyle Wankel, Dave Monson, Darren Bobyck (Photo: Marcia Wickenheiser - Collection)

1977-1978 - SEASON

The Western Canada Hockey League (WCHL) changed its name to the Western Hockey League (WHL) it was announced Tuesday, September 5, 1978, by present Ed Chynowrth. It was decided to eliminate “Canada” from the name as three of the 12 teams were based in the United States.

During the off season, several of the team franchises were moved. Calgary Centennials hired general manager Bob Strumm, former Saskatoon Star-Phoenix sports writer. Owner Dick Koentges moved the franchise to Billings, Montana. He hired Dave King as the coach, renamed the club the Bighorns and played in the brand new 8,600 seat Yellowstone Metra Arena. Gerry Brisson transferred Winnipeg monarchs to Calgary, where they were renamed the Wranglers. The majority owner Ephrain Strinke was not satisfied with the local arena and moved the Kamloops franchise to Seattle and renamed the team the Breakers.

1977-1978 REGINA PATS ROSTER - Goalies: Pat Ansell, Greg Dumba Defense: Darren Veitch, Kevin Krook, Trevor Bowering, Gord Wappel, Chris Kilcher, Myles Tangedal, Jim Turner, Gilles Choquet, Dave Downton, Tim Wicijowski, Doug Korman Centre: Gerald Minor (Captain), Doug Wickenheiser, Clark Bacala, Larry Ell, Mike Blaisdell, Rod Yaworski, John Eger, Wayne Wagner, Doyle Wankel Right Wing: Dirk Graham, Erle Switzer, Gary Slezak, Scott Kolewaski, Brent Pascal, Mike Blaisdell, James Pearson, Kevin Clackson Left Wing: Gerry Galloway, Ron Parent, Larry Ell, Bill Ansell, Paul Hogan, Scott Miller N/L: Mike Cooper, Cliff McKay Coach: Lorne Davis Trainer: Norm Fong Statisticians: Bill Huckulak, Ron "Scoreboard" Johnston

On Thursday, September 29, at Billings, Regina Pats stopped their winless streak on the road at 37 games by downing Billings Bighorns 6-3. Pats played their premier hockey game in the new Agridome on Sunday, October 2, against the Saskatoon Blades before 4,200 observers. At the Agridome on Wednesday, November 9, Gerald Minor tied a WHL record as he scored his third consecutive hat trick before 2,606 cheering fans.

The Moscow Selects played the WHL all-stars at the Agridome on Friday, December 9, The Selects edged the all-stars 6-5.

Before the Pats played the Saskatoon Blades on Sunday, February 12, one minute silence was observed in honour of ex-Leader Post sports writer Ron Campbell who died on Saturday. Ron started covering the Pats games back in the 1958-59 season and finished twelve years later in the 1969 season.

Regina Pats finished in third place in the Eastern Division with 63 points. Gerald Minor of the Regina Pats finished 7th in the scoring race with 54 goals 75 assists for 129 points. Regina Pats Awards: Doug Wickenheiser, Most Sportsmanlike Player (Hub Bishop Memorial Trophy); Gerry Galloway, Rookie of the Year (Nick Pappas Memorial Trophy); Darren Veitch, Top Defenseman (Charles Johnston Memorial Trophy); Gerald Minor, Most Valuable Player (Barkers Trophy) and also Pats Top Scorer Award; Dirk Graham and Larry Ell, Tied, Unsung Hero (Booster Club Award)

ROUND ROBIN SEMI-FINAL - Sunday, March 26, Regina Pats shut down the Brandon Wheat Kings top line winning a 3-2 overtime victory, in front of 2,451, at Keystone Centre. Mike Blaisdell, was brought up from Pat Blues. It was his goal at 10:49 of the first sudden-death overtime period that gave the Pats the victory. It was only his sixth game with the Pats. The teams fought through a scoreless first period. Brandon had a 1-0 lead going into the third and upped it to 2-0 before Doug Wickenheiser scored and Paul Hogan scored the tying goal at 10:28. Pats' line of Larry Ell, Paul Hogan and Erie Switzer had the assignment of checking the Brandon scoring kings of Laurie Boschman, Bill Derlago and Ray Allison. Brandon had lost only two home games all season and had been undefeated in 20 consecutive games prior to the game.

Friday, March 31, Wheat Kings scored four goals in a span of three minutes and 46 seconds in the third period to edge the Pats 9-8 in a high scoring affair at the Regina Agridome, before 5,300 spectators. The turning point came prior to the Wheat Kings' four goal outburst, both teams were tied 5-5. Brandon had been disallowed a goal. "The players got peeved." said coach Dunc McCallum. It pumped the club and they came alive. That made the score 9-5 by the 8:11 mark, then Pats came back with 3 of their own goals. Centre Bill Derlago came out of his slump as he scored three goals and had two assists for Brandon. Regina's line of Gerry Galloway, Gerald Minor and Dirk Graham accounted for six of Pat goals.

Sunday, April 2, For the second game in a row the Pats, quit in the third period as Flin Flon downed Regina 8-5 at the Agridome. Both teams were tied 3-3 after the first period. Regina trailed 6-5 going into the final stanza. For the Bombers, they had eight players involved in the scoring. For the Pats, Doug Wickenheiser had two goals and Paul Hogan scored two goals and had one assist.

Tuesday, April 4, Regina missed numerous chances at Brandon and it cost them a 5-1 defeat. Frustration was all over the Pat players' faces. Regina hit the Kings goal post six times, three in the opening frame. Bill Derlago scored two goals, both in the first period as Brandon took a 2-0 lead into the second period and lead 3-1 after the second. Kevin Krook scored Pats only goal at the 15:40 mark. Brandon's Brad Kempthorne also had 2 goals.

Wednesday, April 5, Regina had a 1-3 record and their chances looked dim going into the Flin Flon centre. They had not won a game in two years in the mining city. Pats went on to defeat the Bombers 6-2. It was Regina's goalie Greg Dumba who kept Regina in the game. He had 36 shots peppered at him and was tested severely on almost every Flin Flon shot. They were tied 1-1 and 4-1 after the second. Gerald Minor's shorthanded goal 32 second into the third period took all the steam out of Flin Flon. Pats scored 5 straight goals before Flin Flon scored at 15:56 of the third period.

Thursday, April 6, Bombers downed Pats 9-3 at Flin Flon. Regina having a man advantage in the middle stanza for five minutes backfired. Jordy Douglas and Ray Markham scored shorthanded goals and the period ended 5-1 for the home club. "That killed us." said coach Lorne Davis after the game. Flin Flon's Ray Markham and Regina Pats' Paul Hogan had two goals each. The Bombers lead 3-1 after the first period.

Saturday, April 8, Regina Pats downed Brandon Wheat Kings 7-5 at the Regina Agridome. Gerald Minor had the job of shadowing Bill Derlago throughout the game and it paid off as Minor scored three times and had another three assists while all Derlago could muster was one assist. Brandon took a 3-2 first lead only to have Regina Pats come back and take a 4-3 lead into the final period. Erle Switzer scored an empty net goal with 8 seconds left in the game.

Monday, April 10, it was do or die for Pats, they had to win by six goals or more to eliminate Brandon and they did just that. The final buzzer showed the scoreboard as Regina 10 Flin Flon 4. The Bombers did not play their usual game; they did not play rough, only scoring when needed. Pats led 4-0 after the opening frame. The (4,650) Agridome fans could smell the trend that was coming already. After the second period, Regina had the edge 7-4. The Bombers then reverted to the first period style, allowing Pats to outscore them 3-0. The big gun for Regina was Dirk Graham with four goals. Brandon could only blame themselves as they lost 9-2 at home against the Bombers.

ROUND ROBIN PLAY-OFFS	W	L	F	A	PTS	PLUS/MINUS
Flin Flon Bombers	4	4	46	43	8	Plus	3
Regina Pats	4	4	43	44	8	Minus	1
Brandon Wheat Kings	4	4	40	42	8	Minus	2

EASTERN DIVISION LEAGUE FINAL - Tuesday, April 11Flin Flon was a different team, downing the visiting Regina Pats 7-3. The clubs were tied 1-1 after the first period. It was the middle frame, that made the big difference as the Bombers out scored Regina 4-0 and out shot them 33-10. Pats had a complete breakdown. Early in the third, Regina scored 2 break-a-away goals; the first, Larry Ell in the opening minutes when Pats were short a man and Ron Parent scored the other. Bombers top scorer was Ray Markham with 2 goals and assisting on another.

Wednesday, April 12, Regina Pats lost in a high scoring 11-9 affair at Flin Flon. Bombers led 4-1 after the first. With the help of four goals in less than four minutes in the first half of the middle frame, both clubs came out tied 6-6. With the home club leading 10-9, Pats coach-manager Lorne Davis pulled goalie Pat Ansell for an extra attacker only to have it backfire as the Bombers Glen Hiales scored into an empty net with 34 seconds remaining. Regina's Paul Hogan had a 6 point outing scoring 3 goals and 3 assists while Dirk Graham had 3 goals and 2 assists. Greg Tebbutt also tallied 3 times and had 3 assists for the Bombers.

Friday, April 14, Flin Flon's Ray Markham's big goal at 9:42 of overtime gave the Bombers a 4-3 lift over the Pats in front of 4,397at the Regina Agridome. Bombers' Mel Biluk shot the puck into the Pats zone, with defenseman Doug Korman draped all over him but he was able to shovel the puck over to Markham. Dirk Graham was all over Markham but the Flin Flon centre was a ble to change the direction of the puck passed net minder Pat Ansell. Bombers' Jordy Douglas' third goals tied the game at 8:38 of the third period to force overtime.

Saturday, April 15, Bombers; Guy Bohmer took but one shift and received two minor penalties, two majors, plus a game misconduct and it hurt his team. At the Agridome the Pats went on to defeat Flin Flon 9-6. The fracas started in the midway point of the third period with Regina's Dirk Graham and Bohmer. Players left the players bench and the final result was eight game misconducts. Dirk Graham scored three goals for Pats, the big one being at 0:27 of the third. It started Regina with three straight goals to put the game out of reach.

Sunday, April 16, Regina Pats season came to an end as Flin Flon downed the Pats 5-3 at the Agridome before 4,970 fans, to win the Eastern Division Final. Regina had a 2-1 lead going into the second period only to have the Bombers outscore Regina 3-1 in the middle frame. In the dying minutes, the Pats pulled goalie Pat Ansell for an extra attacker only to have Bombers' Jody Douglas score into the empty net with 10 seconds remaining.

Flin Flon Bombers went on and lost out to New Westminster Bruins in the League final round robin with the Billings Bighorns. The Memorial Cup Tournament was played at both Sault Ste. Marie Memorial Gardens and Sudbury Community Arena that year. It was Peterborough Petes (OHA) and Trois-Rivieres Draveurs (QMJHL) the other two teams.



Stick Boy: Al Wielgoz Front Row: Pat Ansell, Gerry Galloway, Erle Switzer, Lorne Davis (Coach & General Manager), Gerry Minor, Dirk Graham, Greg Dumba Second Row: Norm Fong (Head Trainer), Darren Veitch, Kevin Clackson, Kevin Krook, Doug Wickenheiser, Gord Wappel, Jim Pearson, Randy Pollock (Assistant Trainer) Back Row: Ron Parent, Clark Bacala, Trevor Bowering, Doug Korman, Paul Hogan, Larry Ell (Photo: Marcia Wickenheiser – Collection)

1976-1977 - SEASON

The League announced in June that the Edmonton Oil Kings' franchise was to be moved to Portland, Oregon. The crowd support had dropped to an average of 1,500 fans per game in the previous season. The team became known as the Portland Winter Hawks and would be playing in the 10,400 seat Memorial Coliseum. Hoping to breathe new life in his Winnipeg club Gerry Brisson renamed his team the Monarchs, a famous name back in the 30's and 40's when Monarchs had won three Memorial Cups.

1976-1977 REGINA PATS ROSTER - Goalies: Pat Ansell, Jack Anderson, Ken Bales, Brad Bergh, Dan Rogers, Greg Dumba, Doug Koffler, Gary Frank, Kerry Nisbet Defense: Gord Wappel (Captain), Trevor Bowering, Mike McCann, Kevin Krook, Jim Blades, Dave Downton, Mike Kindrachuk, Greg Tebbutt, Darren Veitch, Dean Tidball, Romeo Proseta, Bill Kyle Jr., Kim McNabb Centre: Greg Ing, Gerald Minor, Clark Bacala, Larry Ell, Glenn Rolfe, Rod Yaworski, Brian Festerling, Randy Carson, Ron Trafford, Earl Ingarfield Jr. Wayne Wagner, Doyle Wankel Right Wing: Dirk Graham, Ronald Parent, Allan Hendrickson, Mike Flegel, Rick Odegard Left Wing: Greg Ing, Ron Parent, Gerry Galloway, Hugh Ellis, Keith Downton, Scott Wray, Cliff Kitely, Lorne Schmidt NK: Bill Matthews, Dwayne Tuberfield Coach: Bob Turner; Lorne Davis (January 10) Manager: Del Wilson Trainer: Bryan Raymond

At Portland on Tuesday, November 30,, the Winter Hawks peppered 77 shots at the Pats two goalies. In the first period Pat Ansell had 14 shots while Dan Rogers had a total of 63 shots over the next two periods. The same clubs were the victims of the Pats ending their 36 game winless streak, Wednesday, January 26, before 1,480 fans as the Pats edged the surprised Winter Hawks 3-2 at the Regina Exhibition Stadium.


On January 10, 1977, Lorne Davis took over the duties as coach of the Pats. He played right-winger for the Pats (1947-1951). Lorne started playing three seasons with the Victoria Cougars of the Pacific Coast League but finished playing for the Montreal Royals of the Quebec Major Hockey League. In 1951-52 he started with Vancouver Canucks (PCHL) and, once again, he headed east to play with Buffalo Bisons of the (AHL) for the next two seasons. He played two seasons with the Montreal Canadiens (NHL) 1952-53 and 1953-54. The following year he played 8 games with Chicago Black Hawks before being traded to Detroit Red Wings the same year. In 1954-55 Lorne played one season with Edmonton Flyers in the (WHL). The next year he played 15 games with Boston Bruins (NHL), then played in the (AHL) for several years before once again playing 10 games with Boston Bruins in 1959-60 and Providence Reds (AHL). He finished his hockey career with the Winnipeg Warriors (WHL) in 1960-61 before playing with the Regina Capitals (SSHL) for four seasons. In 1964-65 he played one season with Muskegon Zephyrs and the Canada Team in 1965-66.

It was a tough year for the Regina Pats, having a 36 game winless streak plus a 36 road games winless streak which went into the following season. All Pats 8 wins were at home. After twenty years playing in the Exhibition Stadium, the Pats played their last game against the Saskatoon Blades on Wednesday, March 16, as they downed the visitors 8-6. There were no overtime games during the League schedule.

Three Brandon Wheat Kings finish at top of the League scoring race. Bill Derlago was the League scorer with 178 points, followed by Ray Allison with 137, and Brian Propp with 135 points.

Regina Pats were not in the play-offs that year, New Westminster Bruins once again were the Western Junior Hockey League Champions. It was Ottawa 67's (OHA) and Sherbrooke Beavers (QMJHL). That year the Tournament was changed to a double round robin. The 1977 Tournament was the first ever to be held in B.C. at the Vancouver's Pacific Coliseum. Ottawa and the New Westminster Bruins advanced to the final with 3-1 records. Bruins took a 5-2 lead into the third period and almost lost it at the end. Ottawa tied the game only to see New Westminster Bruins score in the dying moments.



At Front: (Stick Boy)

Front Row: Greg Tebbutt, Pat Ansell, __________ (Business Manager), Lorne Davis (Coach-Manager), Gary Frank, Kevin Krook Second Row: Brian Raymond (Trainer), Dean Tidball, Ron Parent, Mike McCann, Gord Wappel, Dirk Graham, Trevor Bowering, Mike Kindrachuk, Gerry Galloway, Dr. Gavin Oake Back Row: Gerry Minor, Greg Ing, Clark Bacala, Glen Rolfe, Larry Ell, Mike Flegel (Photo: Glenn Rolfe – Collection)

1975-1976 - SEASON

1975-1976 REGINA PATS ROSTER - Goalies: Bob Mahnic, Brad Bergh, Bob Leslie, Jack Anderson, Brent Darke, Kerry Dark, Kerry Nisbet, Gerry Simpson Defense: Gord Wappel, Dean Tidball, Gerrald Joly, Dollard Joly, Pat Mallough, Myles Tangedal, Mike Wirachowsky, Keith Hertz, Mike McCann, Greg Tebbutt Centre: Drew Callander (Captain), Rob Tudor, Gerry Minor, Brian Festerling, Keith Hertz, Glen Rolfe, Bruce Rolin, Larry Ell Right Wing: Drew Callander, Rob Tudor, Al Dumba, Greg Fieger, Brian Festerling, Ken Burdon, Dirk Graham, Dick Van Der Velden Left Wing: Greg Ing, Jon Hammond, Ron Trafford, Keith Downton, Keith Hertz, Doug Keil, Mike Flegel Forward: Rhys Renouf Coach: Bob Turner Manager: Del Wilson Trainer: Norm Fong

The Leader Post headline: “September 17, Regina Pats have 14 goalies in their training camp. It was a sign for what lay ahead for Regina Pats for the next two seasons. There were no overtime games during the League schedule.” The Pats finished fifth in the Eastern Division with 52 points.

LEAGUE SEMI-PLAY-OFFS - First and only time the League decided on inter-division play-offs. Victoria Cougars, who finished fifth in the League, played the League's tenth place Regina Pats.

Sunday, March 28, Victoria skated to a 3-1 victory over the Regina Pats at Victoria Memorial Arena. Coach Pat Ginnell's team were stirred up and scored two-third period power play goals for the victory. Jim Gustafson for the Cougars scored two goals. Gustafson gave Cougars a 1-0 lead at 10:52 of the first period. Pats were shorthanded and Drew Callander tied the game five minutes into the second period. Victoria scored two power play goals by Al Jill and Gustafson with his second in the third period.

Tuesday, March 30, Victoria netminder Murray Bannerman spoiled Pats chances as he helped his Cougars take a 5-2 win over Regina at the Memorial Arena before 3,090 fans. Greg Ing was stopped three times by Bannerman in the first two periods. His first chance came close to the end of the opening period on a power play opportunity. He and Rob Tudor took turns whacking at rebounds but the closest they came was a goal post. In the second period, Bannerman foiled Ing taking the puck out of the air. In the third, he stopped Ing on a clear break-away. Victoria had period leads of 1-0 and 4-0. Regina's Rod Tudor and Keith Hertz scored for the Pats in the third period.

Wednesday, March 31, Victoria's Dennis Fenske's second goal at 15:57 of the third period, helped the Cougars to a 4-4 tie over Regina Wednesday at Regina Stadium. Regina lead 1-0 after the first period and took a 3-1 lead into the third period. Pats' Drew Callander scored a goal and had three assists. He had one goal in the second period disallowed when he was on goalie Bannerman's doorstep. He batted a high flipped puck behind the goalie, only to have the referee say his stick was too high, thereby disallowing his goal.

Friday, April 2, Regina jumped into a 3-0 lead after the opening period only to see Victoria storm back with 5 straight goals to edge the Pats 5-4 at the Regina Exhibition Stadium. Pats forgot they have to play sixty full minutes of hockey and, for the second time, blew a victory opportunity. Mike Will was Victoria's top scorer with 2 goals, the first 2 in the second period.

Saturday, April 3, Regina Pats forced a return trip to Victoria as they earned a 6-4 victory at Exhibition Stadium. With Cougars taking an early 2-0 lead in the first period, Pats tied the score before the end of the period and went on to score three more goals in the second period. Al Hammond was Regina's top attacker with a hat trick, his final goal going into an empty net, while Rod Tudor had 2 goals.

Sunday, April 4, Victoria Cougars eliminated Regina Pats handily 9-3 at the Memorial Arena. Mike Will, Victoria's centre, was the hero in the first two periods. He was a one man show scoring the first four goals and adding two assists before being ejected with one minute remaining in the middle stanza. Cougars took a 2-0 first period lead and upped the score to 7-1 going into the third period. It was a rough affair with a total of 170 minutes in penalties.

The Victoria Cougars lost to the New Westminster Bruins who went on to beat Brandon and Saskatoon for the League Championship. The other teams in the Memorial Cup Tournament that year were Hamilton Fincups (OHA) and Quebec Remparts (QMJHL). Hamilton won over the Bruins 5-2 in the final game to win the Memorial Cup.

Front Row: Kerry Nisbet, Rob Tudor, Bob Turner (Coach), Mike Wirachowsky, Del Wilson (Manager), Jon Hammond, Jack Anderson Second Row: _________ (Business Manager), Brian Festerling, Gord Wappel, Al Dumba, Drew Callander, Dollard Joly, Keith Hertz, Myles Tangedal, Norm Fong (Trainer) Third Row: Dirk Graham, Gerry Minor, Larry Ell, Gerrard Joly, Ron Trafford, Greg Fieger, Greg Ing, Dean Tidball (Photo: Al Dumba – Collection)

1974-1975 - SEASON - PATS ALMOST MOVE TO SPOKANE, WASHINGTON

On Wednesday, March 27, 1974, the Regina Leader Post headlines read: “The Spokane Pats?” Reports came from the Saskatchewan Legislature Tuesday afternoon that one of Regina’s CL questioned the government on what it might do to help keep the Pats from moving to Spokane. At the same time it was confirmed by Regina Pats' President and General Manager, Del Wilson, that he had only phoned the operator of the Spokane Coliseum in terms of negotiations. “We do not want to leave Regina but, unless there is a firm commitment on a new building forthcoming, we have no other choice but to look elsewhere.” stated Wilson.

That night - City Council proposed a new 6,000 seat arena after receiving a letter from Gordon Staseson, President of the Regina Exhibition Association, asking for Council’s preliminary support of the proposal for construction of an “Agra-Dome” building.

As a result of the Pats winning the Memorial Cup in 1973-74, nine top players were drafted or graduated. Nine players returned for the 1974-75 season, leaving behind an inexperienced team. Three of the six Pat owners wanted out of ownership of the Pats Hockey Club. Del Wilson stayed as part owner and General Manager, along with Don K. McPherson and Bill Patton. In an attempt to keep the team in Regina, three new owners were recruited. The new owners were Gordon Wicijowski, Dr. Babchuk and Wilf Degelman.

On Thursday, June 27, 1974, the Regina Leader Post reported, “Del Wilson indicated he plans to keep the team in Regina. Earlier this year he alluded to the possibility of relocating to Spokane, Washington, if a new arena was not built in Regina.”

1974-75 REGINA PATS ROSTER - Goalies: Ed Staniowski, Bob Mahnic, Tim Padleski Defense: Mike Harazny, Dean Tidball, Mike Wirachowsky, Gerrard Joly, Dollard Joly, Gord Wappel Centre: Dave Faulkner, Rob Tudor, Les Grauer, Gerry Minor, Drew Callander, Ken Burdon, Glen Rolfe Right Wing: Rob Tudor, Ross Mahoney, Ron Trafford, Greg Ing, Dick Van Der Velden, Jon Hammond Left Wing: Jon Hammond, Al Dumba, Doug Keil, Jim Minor, Mike Flegel, Kevin Nagel, Bob Poley Coach: Bob Turner General Manager: Del Wilson Assistant Manager: John Weber Trainer: Norm Fong

In the off season, Swift Current Broncos owner Bill Burton moved the franchise to Lethbridge, Alberta, and the new 5,500 seat Sportsplex. The new Lethbridge coach was ex-Pats Earl Ingarfield Sr. who coached Regina Pats in the 1969 season. On Tuesday, October 15, Kamloops Chiefs outshot Regina Pats 44-27 only to lose the game 7-2. Goalie Ed Staniowski and Centre Jim Minor were selected to represent Canada in the World Junior Hockey Tournament, December 26 to January 5.

Regina Pats finished third in the Eastern Division with 63 points. Regina Pats' Dave Faulkner finished in fourth place in the League scoring race playing in 70 games, 56 goals, 66 assists for 122 points and had 59 minutes in penalties. Goalie Eddie Staniowski was selected to the WCHL All-Star Team and won the Canadian Hockey League Player of the Year Award.

Regina Pat Awards: Eddie Staniowski, Most Valuable Player (Tom Willis Trophy); Dave Faulkner, Team Top Scorer (Tom Willis Award (Wrist Watch); Al Dumba, Rookie of the Year (Nick Pappas Memorial Trophy); Les Grauer, Most Sportsmanlike Player (Hub Bishop Memorial Trophy; Mike Harazny, Top Defenseman (Charles Johnston Memorial Trophy)

Mike Harazny, Eddie Staniowski, Les Grauer, Dave Faulkner, Al Dumba (Photo: Ron C. Johnston Collection)

EASTERN DIVISION SEMI-FINAL - Sunday, March 30, it was Lethbridge's Greg Woods' goal at 4:43 of the first overtime period that gave Broncos a 5-4 victory over Pats at the Lethbridge Sportsplex. Woods unloaded a slap shot from the left side and hit the post on the short side, slipping under Eddie Staniowski's outstretched leg. Seconds earlier Robbie Laird hit the goal post at the other end of the rink on a break-a-way. Tudor had wished he could have replaced it with his first goal. He had scored on a break-a-way only 30 seconds into the game.

Tuesday, April 1, Regina Pats downed the Broncos 5-3 at Lethbridge, before 5,015 fans. Pats' netminder Ed Staniowski came up great, he was spectacular throughout. In the first two periods Eddie faced a tidal wave of 33 Bronco shots, 20 in the opening stanza. Although being outshot 33-10Regina came out of the hectic two frames leading 2-1. Jim Minor was Pats scoring leader with two goals, his first on a power play in the opening period. His second on a drive from the left side in the third.

Monday - NEWS FLASH - Regina Leader Post Headline: “burgesses swept a $ 2.4 million bylaw to help build a new hockey arena later named the Agridome”.

Wednesday, April 2, Regina Pats struggled to tie the match and then went on to down Lethbridge 4-3 in overtime at the old Regina Cow Palace. The hero was Jim Minor who helped Regina rise from defeat by scoring two goals, the first tied the game with 35 seconds left in regulation time. The Broncos had received a Penalty at 19:14. Coach Bob Turner pulled Ed Staniowski in favour of an extra attacker, giving the Pats a two-man advantage. In overtime, Minor grabbed a loose puck in front of the net at 9:16 into the extra period.

Friday, April 4, Regina upped and dumped Lethbridge 7-2 at the Exhibition Stadium in front of the largest crowd (4,457) in four years. Pat defenceman Mike Harazny was outstanding as he had the duty of shadowing Broncos' Brian Trottier. Harazny had been playing 45 minutes a game in the play-offs. In the overtime game Wednesday, Mike played all but 30 seconds in the overtime session. Every time Trottier was on the ice, so was Harazny. Going in the second period, Regina's Rod Tudor and Dave Faulkner led the charge brigade with two goals each,. Drew Callander also tallied a pair both in the third period. ......................... (Photo: Regina Leader Post - Ad)

Monday, April 7, Earl Ingarfield's Broncos came back from the brink of elimination beating the Pats 4-2 at the Lethbridge Sportsplex. Lethbridge had a 3-0 lead after the eight minute mark of the opening period. Two came on the man advantage, the three goals came within the space of a minute and 13 seconds. Terry Bucyk of the Broncos scored two goals, both during the three-goal rally. The same Bucyk side- lined defenceman Gord Wappel earlier in the period when he hammered Wappel into the boards on an icing play. Gord suffered a broken knee in three places as a result of the charge.

Wednesday, April 9, Regina Pats came up with the biggest game of the season as they downed the second place Lethbridge Broncos 5-2 taking the series at the Exhibition Stadium. Three times the Pats connected while having man advantage and that was the difference in the game. Rookie Al Dumba was the Pats top gun, scoring two goals. Broncos' Brian Trottier was Lethbridge's top scorer with a pair.

EASTERN DIVISION FINAL - Friday, April 11, the Pats dropped a 4-2 decision against the Saskatoon Blades at the Saskatoon Arena. Regina goalie Ed Staniowski kept the Pats within reach of the victory. He was brilliant in the first period when the Blades blistered drive after drive at him. Coach Bob Turner pulled netminder Staniowski in favour of an extra attacker only to have Blade's Fred Williams score into the empty net.

Sunday, April 12, Regina Pats got stung 5-2 at the Exhibition Stadium. It just wasn't Regina's night. Pats finished the night with five of seven minor penalties dished out by referee Murray Harding of Winnipeg. During one stretch in the second period, Pats were short-handed for six minutes and 30 seconds.

Tuesday, April 15, Regina fell behind 3-0 by the midpoint of the first period and fought back at Saskatoon Arena to edge the Blades 5-4. Regina scored four goals in the final eight minutes of the third period, that left the spectators gasping in disbelief. It all started when Jim Minor connected on a power play goal 12 minutes into the final period. The goal fired up the visitors. Jon Hammond, playing one of his best games of the season, started a three goal splurge over a two minute and 23 second span. His second was into an empty net.

Wednesday, April 16, Saskatoon's Danny Arndt triggered two goals as the Blades downed the Pats 4-3 at the Regina Stadium. With the clubs tied 3-3 late in the third period, overtime looked possible but Arndt scored his second and winning goal at 17:40 on a clear breakaway as he grabbed a bouncing puck at centre ice. The other Saskatoon scorer was Bernie Federko with two tallies. His were sandwiched between Arndt's. Saskatoon took a 1-0 lead after the first period. It was all Regina early in the second scoring 3 straight goals by the 6:21 mark to take a 3-1 lead going into the final period.

Friday, April 18, Saskatoon Blades captured the Eastern League Final as they blanked Regina 4-0 at the Saskatoon Arena. Pats had six power play opportunities and could not score on Blades' netminder Randy Ireland. Regina had two top defenceman out, due to injuries (Gerrard Joly and Gordon Wappel), while Mike Wirachowsky played with a mask to protect a broken nose.

Saskatoon Blades lost to New Westminster Bruins in seven games. The Bruins picked up Regina Pats' goaltender Eddie Staniowski for the Memorial Cup Tournament played at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium. Toronto Marlboros (OHA) and Sherbrooke Beavers (QMJHL) were the other teams in the Tournament. In the final it was Toronto downing the Bruins 7-3 to clinch the Memorial Cup Championship.

Front Row: Ed Staniowski, Dr. Duke, Mike Harazny, Bob Turner (Coach), Dave Faulkner, Del Wilson (Manager), Jim Minor, John Weber (Assistant Manager), Brian Albert Second Row: Al Dumba, Gord Wappel, Jon Hammond, Rob Tudor, Bob Poley, Ron Trafford, Ken Burdon, Mike Wirachowsky, Drew Callander, Norm Fong (Trainer) Back Row: Dollard Joly, Doug Keil, Gerry Minor, Les Grauer, Glenn Rolfe, Dean Tidball (Photo: Glenn Rolfe – Collection)

1973-1974 - MEMORIAL CUP WINNERS

During the summer Dennis Sobchuk signed a 10 year contract valued at $1.7 million with Cincinnati Stingers of the World Hockey Association. The Vancouver Nats were bought by a group of businessmen headed by Ephraim Steinke, Exnie Rempel and Andy Berna. The group moved the franchise to Kamloops where the team was renamed the Chiefs. Meanwhile owner Ben Hatskin sold the Winnipeg Junior Jets to coach Gerry Brisson and renamed the team, Clubs. There were no overtime games that season during the League schedule. (Photo: Dennis Sobchuk - HHOF # 000054-0224 O-Pee-Chee - Collection)

1973-74 REGINA PATS ROSTER - Goalies: "Steady" Eddie Staniowski, Bob Leslie, Randy Johnson Defense: Greg Joly, Kim MacDougall, Mike Harazny, Dave Thomas, Mike Wirachowsky Centre: Dennis Sobchuk, Glen Burdon, Jim Minor, Rod Tudor, Al Dumba Right Wing: Mike Wanchuk, Rick Uhrich, Dave Faulkner, Drew Callander, Al Dumba, Rod Tudor Left Wing: Clark Gillies, Robbie "Roughhouse" Laird, Jon Hammond, "Billy the Kid" Bell, Russ Mahoney, Les Grauer Coach: Bob Turner General Manager: Del Wilson Assistant Manager: John Weber Trainer: Norm Fong Assistant Trainer: Wayne Zurkowski Statistican: Ron "Scoreboard" Johnston Assistant Statistican: Dale "Scorecard" Richter

REGINA PATS GO OVERSEAS - AHEARNE CUP
Tuesday, December 18, at 8:30 a.m., Pats boarded an Air Canada jet at the Regina Airport. After stops in Winnipeg and Toronto, the group boarded a Scandinavian Air Systems 747 in Montreal for the trans-Atlantic crossing. After a long flight, the group arrived a day later at 10:35 a.m. in Copenhagan, Sweden.
Two days later, Pats got their first ever taste of international hockey, playing exhibition games prior to the tournament. Most of the teams in the tournament were professional. The only points the Pats were able to get was against the London Lions, were they fought to a 5-5 tie. The London Lions were made up of mostly players from Canada. The HC Spartak Moscow team won the tournament for the second straight time. (Photo: Brian Watts and Brian McCutcheson of the London Lions, on each side of Regina Pats goalie Ed Staniowski - London Lions Collection)

Taking in the trip were director Harold Jones, Canadian Amateur Hockey Association representative, Leader Post sports writer Mal Isaac, and a number of parents of members of the Pats along with a few avid Pat fans.

The Regina Pats picked up many tips on the Scandinavian tour one being to shoot more. The Europeans use the slap shot when they got the opportunity, but passing plays are produced to set up scoring attempts with their famous wrist shots. The main reason behind manger Del Wilson accepting the invitation to compete in the Ahearne Cup, (Named after British ice hockey promoter – J.F. “Bunny” Ahearne), tournament in the first place was to give the Pats an opportunity to learn.

SWEDEN TOUR - EXHIBITION GAMES

Month	Date	Day	Visiting Team	vs.	Home Team	SCORE
December	21	Friday	Regina Pats Jr.(Canada)	vs.	Malmo Sweden	3-3
December	23	Sunday	Regina Pats Jr.(Canada)	vs.	Leksand Minor All-Stars	8-2

SWEDEN (AHEARNE CUP TOURNAMENT)

Month	Date	Day	Visiting Team	vs.	Home Team	SCORE
December	26	Wednesday	Sweden (Leksand)Sr.	vs.	Regina Pats Jr. (Canada)	5-0
December	27	Thursday	Regina Pats Jr.(Canada)	vs.	Moscow Dynamos (Pro.)	5-10
December	28	Friday	Finland Helsinki	vs.	Regina Pats Jr.(Canada)	9-2
December	30	Sunday	Stockholm AIK	vs.	Regina Pats Jr.(Canada)	8-1
January	01	Tuesday	Regina Pats Jr.(Canada)	vs.	London Lions (Pro.)	5-5
January	02	Wednesday	Sweden Sodertalje	vs.	Regina Pats Jr.(Canada)	5-3
January	03	Thursday	Regina Pats Jr.(Canada)	vs.	Sweden Djurgaarden	2-15

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On Wednesday, February 6, Leader Post Headlines Read – “Regina Pats tie League record with 16 goals”. The newest League entry, Kamloops Chiefs, paid their first visit to Regina. Coach Joe Tennant and his tribe watched Pats run up one of the most lopsided scores in the WCJHL history. Tim Priestly, Kamloops goaltender, faced a 67 shot bombardment as the Pats won 16-1.

Friday, March 15, against Edmonton Oil Kings, Dennis Sobchuk reached the 400 point mark and became the first player in WCHL history to reach that mark in just three seasons. For only the second time in Pats' history, a member's sweater number had been retired at the end of the season; Dennis Sobchuk's # 14 and the other was Billy Hicke's # 17 back in 1957.


At the end of the season the League had the tightest finish in goaltender history. There were but .0530 points separating Garth Malarchuk of Calgary Centennials who finished with a goal against average of 3.0557, while Pats Ed Staniowski was 3.0587. For the second straight season Regina Pats' Dennis Sobchuk finished second in the League scoring race with 68 goals, 78 assists for 146 points. In the WCHL All-Star Team, Greg Joly tied Ron Greschner of New Westminster Bruins for best defenseman, while Dennis Sobchuk and Ron Chipperfield of Brandon Wheat Kings tied for best centre. Regina Pats' Clark Gillies was selected at left wing. (Photo: Clark Gillies - Patrick Petit - Regina Leader Post file)

Regina Pat Awards: Dennis Sobchuk, Team Top Scorer, (Tom Wills Award - Wrist Watch); Mike Wanchuk, Most Sportsmanlike Player, (Hub Bishop Memorial Trophy; Rob Tudor, Rookie of the Year, (Nick Pappas Memorial Trophy; Greg Joly, Top Defenseman, (Charles Johnston Memorial Trophy; Eddie Staniowski, Most Valuable Player, (Tom Wills Trophy)

EASTERN SEMI-PLAY-OFFS - Monday, April 1, Regina's "Billy the Kid" Bell scored four times to help Regina defeat Saskatoon Blades 6-3 at the Exhibition Stadium. Fore-checking and power plays took a large part in the outcome of the game. Both teams were ranked one-two in the League power plays and each team scored three times with a man advantage. It was all Blades in the first, leading 2-0 going into the middle frame. Saskatoon's Pat Price with 2 power play goals, both in the first period. In the second it was Pats Thomas on a low drive from the right point through a maze of legs for Regina's first goal at 1:29 then Bell with two. Pats took a 4-3 lead going into the final period.

Tuesday, April 2, Ed Staniowski was outstanding. He turned in a perfect game as the Regina Pats shut out the Blades 4-0 at the Saskatoon Arena. Pats were ahead 3-0 after the first period on two goals by Clark Gillies and Rob Tudor. Tudor scored his second goal in the second period. In addition to a pretty stout defence in front of him, Eddie Staniowski had help from the goal posts. After the game, Eddie stated, "No. 1 star should have been the goal post." Blades hit seven goal posts. Ed made three big saves in the second period on clear break-a-ways from the blue line.

Thursday, April 4, Jack McLeod's Blades bounced the Pats 3-2 at Regina Stadium. The difference in the game was Saskatoon did fore-checking while Regina did not fore-check or hit. The opening frame was scoreless and took only 25 minutes to complete. John McIvor scored twice for Saskatoon, both in the middle stanza when the Hub City took a 2-1 lead. McIvor scored only 14 seconds into the period as he was parked in front of the net. Regina's Rob Laird directed Dennis Sobchuk's pass and scored at 5:41 followed by McIvor's second goal five minutes later on a 15 footer knee-high drive in the third period. Williams gave Blades a 3-1 lead on a screen shot at 12:38 and Dennis Sobchuk scored at 18:50.

Friday, April 5, Saskatoon downed Pats 5-2 at the Saskatoon Arena. Regina Pats came out hitting but reversed their style in the middle period and ran into trouble. After taking a 1-0 lead early in the second on Billy Bell's 5th goal of the series, Blades struck for two goals in the span of one minutes and 11 seconds. Two minutes into the third period Dennis Sobchuk tied the game on a power play goal. Saskatoon then put it away with three goals, two were on break-a-way goals.

Sunday, April 7, an outstanding performance by defenceman Kim MacDougall, helped the Regina Pats to a 4-2 victory over the Blades at the Stadium. It was heavy body checking, plus the relentless skating of the Pats, that gave them the win in the contest. Rick Uhrich's power play goal at 8:34 of the opening period got the Pats on track. Rob Tudor goal at 13:05 made it 2-0 at the end of the first period. Clark Gillies and Glen Burdon upped the score to 4-0 before Danny Arndt of Saskatoon scored two goals; his first with less than two minutes left in the second and his second goal in the third period at 16:22.

Tuesday, April 9, before a sell out crowd, (4,150) at Saskatoon Arena, Pats downed the Blades 5-2. Saskatoon came out in high gear. Goalie Eddie Staniowski faced a continual barrage in the first 10 minutes. "Steady" Eddie finally yielded a goal at the ten minute mark. It was the 12th shot Staniowski faced during those hectic ten minutes. Kim MacDougall, even with a broken right hand finger, put Regina back on even terms two minutes later on a deflected shot from the point. The Regina Pats never looked back.

EASTERN FINALS - Friday, April 12, the largest crowd (4,372) of the season at the Regina Exhibition Stadium saw their Pats get thumped 7-3 by coach Stan Dunns' Swift Current Broncos. Regina got beat by 16 year old goalie Bill Oleschuk who faced 40 shots. The other had to be Don Larway, a pick up from the Winnipeg Clubs in the mid-season. Larway scored Broncos first three goals. Broncos went on to score four goals in the last period to put it out of reach. With the Broncos ahead 3-2 after the second period, Rob Laird of the Pats scored at 1:30 to tie the game before the Broncos scored 4 goals between the 2 minute mark and the midway point.

Sunday, April 14, at the Regina Stadium, Glen Burdon dashed down the ice hacking off two desperate checks and then whipped in the goal that started the unbelievable six goal come back against a shell-shocked goalie Bill Oleschuk. Pats produced a 7-5 victory over the stunned Swift Current Broncos at the Stadium. Broncos had enjoyed a goal just after 1:51 had elapsed in the final period. Regina Pats Rick Uhrich scored a pair of goals. The big scorer for the Broncos was Don Larway with his second straight hat trick.

Tuesday, April 16, at the Swift Current Civic Centre. Pats downed the Broncos 4-1 in a defensive display. Both teams faught through a scoreless first period before Regina's Rich Uhrich put in Dennis Sobchuck's rebound at 6:32 of the second. Brian Trottier tied the game for the Broncos on a backhander power play goal midway through the period. Less then 3 minutes later Doug McDougall shot from the point, it deflected off a Broncos defenseman to put Regina up 2-1 going into the final period. In the final period Robbie "Roughhouse" Laird put the lid on things as he scored a pair of tallies.

Thursday, April 18, Swift Current struck early and often then hung on to edge the Pats 6-5 at the Civic Centre. In the dying seconds of the middle period, Broncos Brian Trottier's goal gave Swift Current the winning goal as the third period was scoreless. Trottier scored three goals, his third coming with only 25 seconds left in the second period. Robbie Laird led the Pat attack with two goals, his second tied the game at 5-5. Pats outshot Swift Current 53-38 in the losing cause.

Friday, April 19, after almost 47 minutes of play, the Broncos decided to leave their bench led by Dave “Tiger” Williams. Using their hockey sticks as weapons, he led them into the stands to settle a few matters with some spectators. Approximately 30 minutes later, both teams were escorted to their dressing rooms by Regina's police. When the game resumed, the Bronco's bench was surrounded by a ring of city police and there was no further scoring. Regina went on to down Swift Current 6-2 at the Stadium.

Saturday, April 20, at Swift Current Civic Centre, Pats took victory over the Broncos 4-1 to advance to the League finals. Pats' goalie Eddie Staniowski blocked 30 shots, eleven coming in the final period when Broncos blitzed the Pat net minder. Regina's big attacker was defenseman Greg Joly with two goals coming in the middle frame. With the Pats taking a 2-1 lead into the second period, Greg Joly took things into his own hands as he rushed the length of the ice, tucked the puck between Oleschuk's legs, and leaving three Broncos trailing at his heels. It was the first of two goals for Joly, both being in the final period. Following the game Pats coach Bob Turner said, " When Joly and Sobchuk are going, the whole team goes." Somehow Bob forgot to mention his goalie, Eddie Staniowski but Swift Current coach Stan Dunn stated, " The guy who beat us was Eddie Staniowski. He was unreal."

LEAGUE FINAL - Tuesday, April 23, at the Regina Exhibition Stadium big Clark Gillies' goal at 3:40 of the third period turned out to be the winner as Pats squeaked by Calgary Centennials 2-1. Staniowski was the hero as time and time again he came through when needed. It with painful experience for him in the third period because he had pulled his back muscles in the second. It was Regina 1-0 after the first period as Dennis Sobchuk deflected a power play goal off Mike Wanchuk's point shot. Three minutes later Calgary's Don Ashby tied the game from a Dennis McLean centre pass. There was no scoring until Clark Gillies scored the winner, a quick blast from a sharp angle to the right of goalie Garth Malarchuk.

Wednesday, April 24, Coach Bob Turner put the Line of Glen Burdon, Rick Uhrich and Robbie Laird, (better known as the BUL Line) to shadow Calgary's top scoring line and kept them off the score sheet. The Line was at their best as they scored the two biggest Regina goals in the third period as Pats went on to a 4-2 victory over coach Scotty Munro's Centennials. Dennis Sobchuk opened the scoring at 3:04 of the first period. Calgary scored both their goals in the second to take a 2-1 lead before Regina erupted for three goals in the third period.

Friday, April 26, April Regina Pats took a 6-5 overtime victory, before 7,391 fans, over the Centennials at the Calgary Corral. It was Glen Burdon's goal at 4:57 that gave the Pats the win. Regina's Dennis Sobchuk scored three times, the first 2 goals of the first period and the first goal of the third period. The stubborn Calgary club deserved better fate. They never gave up. Regina had a 3-0 first period margin and were ahead 4-2 after 40 minutes of play. Early in the third period, Pats took a 5-2 lead, only to see the Centennials storm back with 3 unanswered goals in the last 4 minutes to force the overtime. Glen Burdon ended the spectacle with an ice length rush that ended the game when he put the puck behind Centennial's goalie Kel Erickson.

Saturday, April 27, Regina Pats won the Father Athol Murray Trophy, WCJHL Champions, and a trip to the Memorial Cup to be held in Calgary. They did it with a 5-2 victory over the Calgary Centennials before an overflow crowd (7,074) at the Calgary Corral. The seating capacity of the Corral is 6,495. It was defenseman Greg Joly's two goals, the first two of the game, that gave Pats the big lift to the League title. With a 2-0 early second period lead, the Centennials scored two goals within one minute and 21 seconds to tie the game. Regina hurt Calgary's chances when they replied with 2 of their own in 1 minute and 11 seconds, less than 1 minute after Calgary had tied the game. Those two Pat goals took all the steam out of the Calgary Centennials. "Didn't they work in the third period?" asked Pats coach Bob Turner. "Our goaltending and defence was simply outstanding.” (Photo: Ed Chynoweth, WCHA President, presents the Father Athol Murray Trophy to the Four Regina Pat Captains - Cp Wirephoto)



MEMORIAL CUP BOUND - Regina added goaltender strength for the Memorial Cup. They picked Larry Hendrick of Edmonton Oil Kings League all-star goalie, and Garth Malarchuk of Calgary. All tournament games were played at the Calgary Corral. Regina had the hospitality of Calgary's Scotty Munro. "He gave the use of their bus and told the Pats that he would do anything to help." said Regina Pats manager Del Wilson.

Regina Pats arrived Wednesday at Calgary Airport. Centennial trainer James "Bearcat" Murray welcomed them with his club's bus. Scotty Munro also graciously donated his trainer to help the Pats throughout the tournament.

Monday, May 6, Regina Pats were perfect in their first Memorial Cup game as they blanked Paul Emmil's St. Catherine Black Hawks 4-0. The Hawks thought Dennis Sobchuk was the player they had to stop. They forgot Pats defenseman Greg Joly as he scored two goals. It was one of his finest games as a junior and he controlled the game from start to finish. The other hero for Regina Pats was their netminder Ed Staniowski, who was there to stop the Hawks. Early in the third period, Staniowski stopped three brilliant point-blank shots, when the Hawks were applying power play pressure. On the same sequence Eddie had Hawk's Rick Adduono ring a shot off the goal post.

On Monday, Dave Faulkner was hit over the eye by a puck, requiring 13 stitches to close. Later in the game the same Faulkner dislocated his right elbow.

Wednesday, May 8, Quebec Remparts came out skating and the Remparts downed the Pats 5-3. Regina was out done in every department in this contest. It was a reverse to Monday's game. They were out- skated and outfought. Regina even lost in the injury department. Robbie Laird, who was outstanding. The only good thing for Regina was that all three goals scored came while they had the man advantage. It wasn't the same Pats Wednesday. For Quebec it was a must game, who now have to play St. Catherine Friday night. The winner would play Regina Pats on Sunday.

Friday, May 10, it was all Quebec Remparts as they ripped into St. Catherines Black Hawks and trounced them 11-3. Remparts had period leads off 1-0 and 5-2 and scored six goals in the final period. Seventeen year old Real Cloutier had 3 goals and 1 assist, while Jacques Locas and Dan Beaulieu scored 2 each. It was Quebec's 4th time in the last 5 years that they represented the Quebec League in the Memorial Cup Tournament.

Sunday, May 12, It was a sweet victory for the Regina Pats as they won their first Canadian Junior (Memorial Cup) Championship in 44 years, winning 7-4 in front of 7,382 fans plus TV watchers. The Pats trailed 3-0 near the seventeen minute mark of the opening frame before Big Clark Gillies' goal started the Regina come back.

Trailing 3-1 going into the middle period Pats coach Bob Turner walked into the dressing room, Dennis Sobchuk got up and said, "You do not have to say a word, Were going to win this game." Turner turned around and walked out. They went on and outshot Marc Picard's Remparts 22-4 in the second period and scored four straight goals. In the third period, Quebec's Jacque Locas scored at the fifteen minute mark to close the score to 5-4 for the Pats. Three minutes later, Regina's Glen Burdon outhustled everyone to the puck. Glen roared in on Rempart's goalie Robert Sauve, scoring the all important clinching goal. Dennis "The Cincinnati Kid" Sobchuk who had signed a million dollar contract with the World Hockey Association Club scored his third goal of the game, into the open net with 33 seconds remaining.

Coach, Bob Turner who won five Stanley Cups with Montreal Canadiens said, "This one meant more than anything else and that Swede trip brought them together as a team." In his last year centre Dennis Sobchuk said “I think the turning point came when we started hitting them in the second period.” Goalie “Steady” Eddie Staniowski said “We knew it was our biggest game of the year and no one was going to win it for us.”

Month	Date	Day	Visitor	vs.	Home	Score
May	05	Sunday	St. Catherines (OHL)	vs.	Quebec Remparts(QMJHL)	4-1
May	06	Monday	St. Catherines (OHL)	vs.	Regina Pats (WCJHL)	0-4
May	08	Wednesday	Quebec Remparts (QMJHL)	vs.	Regina Pats (WCJHL)	5-3

SEMI-FINAL GAME

Month	Date	Day	Visitor	vs.	Home	Score
May	10	Friday	Quebec Remparts (QMJHL)	vs.	St. Catherines (OHL)	11-3

MEMORIAL CUP FINAL

Month	Date	Day	Visitor	vs.	Home	Score
May	12	Sunday	Regina Pats(WCJHL)	vs.	Quebec Remparts (QMJHL)	7-4

MEMORIAL CUP ALL-STAR TEAM - Goalie: Robert Sauve, Quebec Remparts Defense: Greg Joly, Regina Pats, Richard Perron, Quebec Remparts Centre: Glen Burdon, Regina Pats Right Wing: Rick Uhrich, Regina Pats Left Wing: Real Coultier, Quebec Remparts
Most Valuable Player: Defenseman: Greg Joly, Regina Pats

Approximately 200 fans waited it out at the Regina Airport almost a full three hours passed their original arrival time. After the arrival, Pats were led to escorted cars and through Regina's open streets to the City Hall. "You have made hockey history for the City." Mayor Henry Baker said at the City Hall. Premier of Saskatchewan Allan Blakeney on behalf of the province presented the players with a plaque. "I want to thank you for a great year in the WCHL." said Mr. Blakeney. "That calibre of hockey that is played in that League is a great source of enjoyment throughout Western Canada."



(Photo:Eddie Staniowsi and Dennis Sobchuk were all signing Monday - Regina Leader Post – Roy Antal)

The Memorial Cup brought to an end the career of nine Regina Pats, one being little Mike Wanchuk. He spent three months in bed suffering from mononucleosis. Wanchuk still felt some closeness with his teammates despite missing half a season.




TOP LEFT – CLOCK WISE: Kim MacDougall, Bill Bell, Rick Uhrich, Dave Faulkner, Bob Leslie, Glen Burdon, Rob Tudor, Ed Staniowski, David Thomas, Mike Wirachowsky, (Below: Champion Regina Pats - Mike Wanchuk, Dennis Sobchuk, Drew Callander, Greg Joly, Jim Minor, Clark Gillies, Rob Laird, Michael Harazny



Sitting: Randy McCormick, Ken Gibson (Stick Boys) Front Row: Eddie Staniowski, Bob Turner (Coach), Greg Joly, John Weber (Assistant Manager), Dr. Jim Chatwin (Physician), Rick Uhrich, Del Wilson (General Manager), Bob Leslie Second Row: Wayne Zurowski (Assistant Trainer), Clark Gillies, Bill Bell, Dave Faulkner, Mike Wanchuk, Jim Minor, Rob Laird, Dennis Sobchuk, Norm Fong (Trainer) Back Row: Glen Burdon, Drew Callander, Mike Wirachowsky, Mike Harazny, Rob Tudor, Kim MacDougall, Jon Hammond, Dave Thomas (Photo: Dennis Sobchuk - Collection)