Knoxville Ice Bears 2022-2023.
Picture of the Week
Knoxville and Huntsville Players Meet at Center Ice Following Huntsville's Playoff Series Win.
Booster Club Selects New Officers for 2023.
April 27, 2023
The Knoxville Ice Bears Booster Club held its annual Officer Election at its membership meeting on Thursday, April 27, 2023. The newly elected officers for the 2023-2024 season are:
President-Rebecca Hedrick;
Vice President-Michelle Lopshire;
Secretary-Kyla Black;
Treasurer-Heather Terry;
Appointed by the president:
Webmaster-Dan Moore; and
Member-at-Large-Tanya Allen.
Congratulations to everyone!
Knoxville’s Justin MacDonald named 2022-23 SPHL Most Valuable Player.
April 20, 2023
HUNTERSVILLE, NC (April 20, 2023) – The Southern Professional Hockey League on Thursday announced that Justin MacDonald of the Knoxville Ice Bears has been selected as the SPHL Most Valuable Player in a vote of league representatives. MacDonald captured the 2022-2023 Kevin Swider Leading Scorer Award, leading the SPHL with 79 points. In addition, . . . Full Story.
Huntsville Eliminates Ice Bears from 2023 Playoffs.
April 14, 2023
Knoxville became the first team eliminated from the SPHL Playoffs, as Huntsville came from behind to win 3-2 in Knoxville on Friday night. The Ice Bears entered the third period up 2-1 but gave up 2 straight goals in the loss. Tanner Salsberry and Rasmuz Waxin-Engback scored Knoxville’s goals. Kristian Stead saved 15 of 18 Huntsville shots. Game Summary.
Knoxville Drops Playoff Game One in Huntsville 1-5.
April 13, 2023
The Ice Bears got off to a good start in the 2023 playoffs, taking 1-0 over the Havoc Thursday in Huntsville. It was short lived, however, as Huntsville stormed back with five straight goals to claim game 1 by a score of 5-1. Dean Balsamo has Knoxville’s only goal with a power play redirection of a Rourke Russell slap shot from the point. Kristian Stead had 37 saves on 42 Huntsville shots. Game Summary.
MacDonald, Russell Named First Team All-SPHL, Balsamo Named Second Team.
April 13, 2023
HUNTERSVILLE, NC (April 13, 2023) – The Southern Professional Hockey League on Thursday announced its All-SPHL First and Second Teams as selected by a vote of SPHL coaches, staff, and broadcasters.
2022-2023 All-SPHL First Team
F – Justin MacDonald, Knoxville Ice Bears
F – Michael Gillespie, Birmingham Bulls
F – Garrett Milan, Pensacola Ice Flyers
D – Zach Wilkie, Peoria Rivermen
D – Rourke Russell, Knoxville Ice Bears (tie)
D – Nick Neville, Peoria Rivermen (tie)
G – Trevor Gorsuch, Evansville Thunderbolts. . . . Read More.
Ice Bears Defenseman Rourke Russell Named to SPHL 2022-2023 All-Rookie Team.
April 12, 2023
HUNTERSVILLE, NC (April 12, 2023) – The Southern Professional Hockey League on Wednesday announced its 2022-2023 All-Rookie Team:
F – Austin Alger, Fayetteville Marksmen
F – Brandon Harrogate, Evansville Thunderbolts
F – Kolten Olynek, Pensacola Ice Flyers
D – Rourke Russell, Knoxville Ice Bears
D – Taylor Brierley, Birmingham Bulls
G – Nick Latinovich, Macon Mayhem
. . . . Read More.
Ice Bears Forward Bailey Conger Named SPHL Player of the Month for March/April.
April 11, 2023
HUNTERSVILLE, NC (April 11, 2023) – The Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL) announced today that Bailey Conger of the Knoxville Ice Bears has been named the Warrior/SPHL Player of the Month for March/April. Conger tallied 24 points, 12 goals, and 12 assists, and had a +7 rating over 13 games played for the Ice Bears last month. . . . Read More.
Ice Bears Can’t Clinch-Lose Regular Season Finale 3-2 in Roanoke.
April 8, 2023
Needing a win to clinch fourth place and home ice for the first round of the playoffs, the Ice Bears looked strong and jumped to a 2-0 lead in the second period Saturday in Roanoke. It was not to be as Roanoke tallied 3 straight goals late in the second period and held on for the win. Bailey Conger and Rex Moe scored for the Ice Bears. Kristian Stead was strong in goal with 36 saves on 39 Roanoke attempts. Game Summary.
Ice Bears in Playoff Form With 7-5 Win Over Roanoke in Knoxville.
April 7, 2023
Knoxville built a 4-2 first period lead and never looked back, beating Roanoke 7-5 Friday night in Knoxville. First period goals by Justin MacDonald, Bret Ouderkirk, Dean Balsamo, and Rasmuz Waxin Engback got things started. Rex Moe added one in the second. Cameron Hough added a breakaway goal in the third and an empty netter for the final tally. Kristian Stead had 24 saves on 29 shots for the win. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Eke Out 3-2 Win Over the Thunderbolts in Evansville.
April 1, 2023
Knoxville came out flat and was two goals down before rallying for a 3-2 win Saturday in Evansville. Bailey Conger started the comeback with a high wrist shot late in the first period. Justin MacDonald tied it on a power play one-timer late in the second. The game winner came 28 seconds later when Rasmuz Waxin-Engback ripped an absolute lazer from the left cicrle. Kristian Stead was stellar in goal, with 49 saves on 51 shots on goal. Game Summary.
Railyard Dawgs Blow by Ice Bears 7-3 in Roanoke.
March 26, 2023
The Ice Bears briefly took a 2-1 lead in Roanoke Sunday, only to see the Railyard Dawgs score six straight goals to coast to the 7-3 win. Goals by Nick Pryce and Ryan Devine had Knoxville in the lead in the second period. The roof fell in after that, with 4 goals by Roanoke in the second and two more in the third. Pryce added another tally late. Julian Sime had 21 saves on 25 shots before leaving with 7 minutes left in the sceond. Kristian Stead finished the game with 13 saves on 16 shots. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Get Redemption With 8-6 Win Over Mayhem.
March 25, 2023
Bailey Conger got things started ten seconds into the game, and three different Knoxville players had two goals each as the Ice Bears outlasted Macon 8-6 at home Saturday night. Conger, Rourke Russell, and Rasmuz Waxin-Engback each had two goals. Dean Balsamo and Nick Pryce had the orther scores. Rookie Julian Sime got the win in his first start at home, stopping 32 of 38 Macon shots. Game Summary.
Knoxville Drops Second Straight Game to Last Place Macon.
March 24, 2023
After two periods, Rex Moe and Razmuz Waxin-Engback had staked Knoxville to a 5-3 lead over visiting Macon Friday night. That lead went up in smoke as Macon reeled off 4 straight third-period goals to claim the 7-5 win on Mossy Oak Night. Rourke Russell had the other Knoxville goal. Kristian Stead had 23 saves on 30 shots on goal. Game Summary.
Ice Bears suffer Road Loss in Macon, 6-7.
March 19, 2023
Macon grabbed a 4-2 lead at the first intermission and held on to win 7-6 in Macon on Sunday. Jagger Williamson staked the Bears to an early lead, and Dean Balsamo had a first period goal. But Macon added 4 in the first. Balsamo tied it in the second following a goal by Bailey Conger. Macon added two more to regain the lead. Cole McKechney pulled the Bears to within one to end the second. Macon added another goal to start the third. Brett Ouderkirk got one late but it wasn’t enough. Jeremie Forget had 3 saves on 6 shots before leaving in the first. Kristian Stead had 33 saves on 37 shots. Balsamo had 5 total points with 2 goals and 3 assists. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Can’t Hold Third Period Lead at Home, Fall to Roanoke 5-7.
March 18, 2023
In a seesaw affair, Knoxville played from behind but eventually took a 4-3 lead into the third period Saturday at home against Roanoke. They couldn’t hold it, though, as Roanoke scored 3 times in four minutes to grab a two-goal lead. Rasmuz Waxin-Engback got one back for the Bears, but the Dawgs added an empty netter to seal it 7-5. Bailey Conger had two goals for Knoxville. Carter Colthorp and Jagger Williamson had the other Knoxville goals. Kristian Stead had 29 saves on 35 shots. Game Summary.
Warm up Jesrsey Auction to be held on Ice After the Game on Saturday March 25.
March 18, 2023
The Knoxville Ice Bears Booster Club will conduct its annual warm up jersey auction on Saturday March 25, 2023, immediaetly following the game with the Macon Mayhem. This will be a live on ice auction of all the jerseys. Winners will have the opportunity to have their pictures taken with the players. Jerseys will be delivered after the seaon. Don't miss out. Be sure to bid high and often!
Knoxville Blanks Roanoke for the Second Straight Time at Home 4-0.
March 17, 2023
Kristian Stead stopped all 33 Roanoke shots to lead the Ice Bears to their second straight home shutout of the Railyard Dawgs on Friday by the score of 4-0. Stead had shut out the Dawgs in their last visit to Knoxville on March 2. Rasmuz Waxin-Engback set the scoring pace with two goals. Colton Fletcher and Bailey Conger added one apiece. The latter ended the night for Roanoke’s tender, Austyn Roudebush. Tyler Roy finished the night for the Dawgs. Game Summary.
Ice Flyers Stymie Knoxville 5-2 in Pensacola.
March 12, 2023
Pensacola built a 4-0 lead over Knoxville Sunday en route to a 5-2 win in Pensacola. Bailey Conger had both Ice Bears goals on power plays. Kristian Stead had 15 saves on 19 shots on goal through two periods. Julian Sime finished up, yielding one goal on nine shots. Game Summary.
Knoxville Bushwhacks Ice Flyers 2-1 in Pensacola.
March 11, 2023
Dean Balsamo scored two third period goals and Kristian stopped 21 of 22 shots as Knoxville scored a come from behind win in Pensacola. The Ice Flyers nursed a single power play goal for most of the game as the Ice Bears had numerous scoring chances but couldn’t convert. Balsamo finally broke through with two scores 3 minutes apart late in the contest. Brett Ouderkirk assisted on both tallies. Game Summary.
Knoxville Tops the Mayhem 5-3 in Macon.
March 4, 2023
On a night when Knoxville’s top line was scratched due to injuries, five different Ice Bears scored goals to pace Knoxville to a 5-3 win in Macon. Cole McKechney, Carter Cowlthorp, Bailey Conger, Justin Portillo, and Kyler Matthews lit the lamp for Knoxville. It was Portillo’s first as an Ice Bear. The first line of Justin MacDonald, Dean Balsamo, and Jagger Williamson were all unavailable. Rookie Julian Sime got the win in his first pro start in goal with 37 saves on 40 shots. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Stuff Railyard Dawgs 3-0.
March 2, 2023
A depleted Knoxville defense limited Roanoke to only 22 shots on goal, and Kristian Stead stopped every one of them to lead the Ice Bears to a 3-0 win at home on Thursday night. Bailey Conger, Jagger Williamson, and Matt O’Shaughnessy scored for the Ice Bears. With defensemen Kyler Matthews and Ryan Devine still serving suspensions, there were no fights or ejections in contest, breaking the norm for recent games between these two teams. They still have five games against each other remaining in the season. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Captain Justin MacDonald Named Back-to-Back Warrior/SPHL Player of the Month.
March 1, 2023
HUNTERSVILLE, NC (March 1, 2023) – The Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL) announced today that Justin MacDonald of the Knoxville Ice Bears has been named the Warrior/SPHL Player of the Month for February. MacDonald tallied 16 points, nine goals, seven assists, and had a +7 rating over nine games played for the Ice Bears last month. . . . Read More.
Knoxville Loses 4-5 in Roanoke with Six Players Tied Behind Their Backs.
February 25, 2023
Nick Pryce stepped up with a hat trick and Bailey MacBurnie stopped 34 of 39 shots as the Ice Bears were forced to play Roanoke down six players due to suspensions and injuries. Newcomer Matt O’Shaughnessy added the other goal for Knoxville. Despite those efforts and a 4-1 lead, Knoxville fell 4-5. Five Knoxville players were suspended prior to the game due to the line brawl on Friday night. Top scorers Justin MacDonald and Dean Balsamo were also shelved due to injuries. Ryan Devine was ejected at the end of the second period, leaving Knoxville with 10 skaters to end the game. Game Summary.
Knoxville Drops Slugfest in Roanoke 3-4.
February 24, 2023
Justin MacDonald added to his league leading goal total, and Jagger Williamson had his third goal in two games in a fight-filled night in Roanoke. Rasmuz Waxin-Engback also added a goal for the Bears. Despite those efforts Roanoke rallied from a 3-1 deficit to win. Kristian Stead was again stellar in goal, saving 33 of 37 shots. Three players from each team were ejected following a first period line brawl that featured Rex Moe fighting several Dawgs while actually on the Roanoke bench. Rourke Russell and Nick Pryce joined Moe in the locker room for the balance of the game. Dino Balsamo also left and did not return after a high hit in the third period. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Hang on
for 4-1 Win in Roanoke.
February 23, 2023
Knoxville hung on to win the first of a three game weekend series in Roanoke, 4-1 behind four points each by Jagger Williamson, Justin MacDonald, and Dean Balsamo. Williamson had the first two goals. Balsamo had the insurance goal in the third period and an empty netter for the final tally. MacDonald assisted on all four goals. Kristian Stead was brilliant in net, thwarting numerous scoring chances by Roanoke. He finished with 33 saves on 34 shots on goal. Game Summary.
Knoxville Drops Monday Matinee in Huntsville, 1-5.
February 20, 2023
Amidst a playoff atmosphere on a President’s Day afternoon in Huntsville, Knoxville took control 1-0 on Justin MacDonald’s 31st goal of the season. Huntsville stormed back with 2 goals in the second period and 3 in the third to win going away. Bailey MacBurnie had 27 saves on 32 shots on goal. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Win Overtime Thriller on Wiener Dog Night in Knoxville.
February 18, 2023
Dean Balsamo knotted the game at 2 late in the third period, then won it in overtime on a great feed from Justin MacDonald to beat Fayetteville 3-2 at home. Bailey Conger had staked Knoxville to a 1-0 lead early in the second. That lead evaporated as the Marksmen scored 2 second period goals ahead of Balsamo’s heroics. Kristian Stead got another win in goal with 35 saves on 37 shots. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Take Control Early for 4-2 Home Win Over Birmingham.
February 17, 2023
Rex Moe and Kyler Matthews scored first period goals, and Justin MacDonald added one early in the second period to stake Knoxville to a 3-0 lead over visiting Birmingham. The Bulls pulled to within one before McDonald iced it with an empty net insurance goal. Kristian Stead had 28 saves on 30 Birmingham shots in the winning effort. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Make it Close in Birmingham.
February 11, 2023
Knoxville gave up four goals in the first five minutes Saturday in Birmingham but fought back to within two before falling 8-6 to the Bulls. Kristian stead departed after 2:22 of the first, only to return after Bailey MacBurnie surrendered 4 goals on 16 shots. Stead finished with 26 saves on 30 shots. Justin MacDonald had two goals. Dino Balsamo, Jagger Williamson, Colton Fletcher, and Rex Moe also scored for Knoxville. A win would have given Knoxville sole possession of second place in the very tight SPHL standings. The loss dropped them into sixth place. Game Summary.
Booster Club Gift Frame Auction Big Success.
February 10, 2023
The Knoxville Ice Bears Booster Club conducted its Gift Frame Silent Auction during Friday’s game against Roanoke. Everyone was in good spirits after the big win over the Railyard Dawgs. Winners had the opportunity to have their pictures taken with the players on ice after the game. The photos are available at the link below and may be downloaded and printed for use in the frames. Congrats and a big thank you to all who participated and for supporting the Ice Bears!
Never in Doubt--Knoxville Wins 5-1 Over Roanoke at Home.
February 10, 2023
After surrendering the first goal late in the first period, the Ice Bears tied it moments later and never looked back en route to a 5-1 win over Roanoke at home Friday. Razmuz Waxin-Engback got that first goal along with a breakaway insurance goal early in the third. Colton Fletcher had the game winner late in the second. Brett Ouderkirk and Dino Balsamo simply undressed Roanoke goalie Tom Aubrun on two late third period goals to ice the win. Kristian Stead saved 33 of 34 shots in goal. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Withstand 50 Shots on Goal in Home Win Over Macon.
February 4, 2023
Despite giving up 50 shots on goal, Knoxville handily defeated visiting Macon 7-3 Saturday on Star Wars Night. Seven different Ice Bears had goals: Justin MacDonald, Brett Ouderkirk, Bailey Conger, Razmuz Waxin-Engback, Rourke Russell, Nick Pryce, and Cameron Hough all scored for Knoxville. Ironically, Russell’s came on a power play while the player he was traded for, Sacha Roy, was in the box. Kristian Stead had 47 saves in his first outing since his now famous fight night with Huntsville. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Dominate Fight Night at Home with 6-3 Win Over Birmingham.
February 3, 2023
Colton Fletcher dropped the gloves with former Ice Bears captain Stephan Brucato at the opening face off to set the tone for Fight Night in Knoxville on Friday. Justin MacDonald had two goals to go with one apiece by Dean Balsamo, Cameron Hough, and Bailey Conger. Tanner Salsberry had a fight and an EN goal. Rex Moe also had a fight. Bailey MacBurnie was tough in goal, drawing a slashing penalty while stopping 31 shots in 34 attempts. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Justin MacDonald Named Warrior/SPHL Player Of The Month.
February 1, 2023
HUNTERSVILLE, NC (February 1, 2023) – The Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL) announced today that Justin MacDonald of the Knoxville Ice Bears has been named the Warrior/SPHL Player of the Month for January. MacDonald tallied 21 points, 11 goals, and 10 assists over 11 games played for the Ice Bears last month. . . . Read More.
Booster Club to hold Silent Auction on February 10.
January 30, 2022
The Knoxville Ice Bears Booster Club will hold a live silent auction for Ice Bears signed gift frames. The Auction will be held on February 10, 2023 during the Cupid's Undie Toss game against Roanoke. These treasured keepsakes are sure to make someone's Valentine's Day truly special. Be sure to bid high and often in the Concourse through the end of the second intermission. Proceeds benefit the players.
Ice Bears Get Split with Havoc 5-2 at Home.
January 28, 2023
Bailey Conger got things started at 1:14 of the first period with his 10th goal of the season. Justin MacDonald made it 2-0 three minutes later with his 23rd. After an apparent goal by Colton Fletcher was waived off, Cole McKechney made it 3-1 late in the second period. Rourke Russell continued his hot hand with two third period power play talleys to ice the win. Bailey MacBurnie had 29 of 31 saves in goal. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Blown Out by Havoc but Keep Fighting Until the End.
January 27, 2023
The Huntsville Havoc took the first of a weekend series in Knoxville 7-1, as they scored four goals in the third period. Dean Balsamo had the only goal for Knoxville. Both Cameron Hough and Kristian Stead whipped Huntsville's Chris Jones in separate brawls before drawing game misconduct penalties. Stead stopped 21 of 28 Huntsville shots in goal before exiting. Bailey MacBurnie faced no shots in mop up duty. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Complete Six Point Weekend with 6-5 Win in Macon.
January 22, 2023
Knoxville won its third game of the weekend on Sunday afternoon, 6-5 over a valiant Mayhem team in Macon. Knoxville had three separate two-goal leads, only to see Macon pull even each time. Justin MacDonald finally got the game clincher with a little over six minutes left in the third period. Bailey Conger and Rex Moe each had two goals, with Cole McKechney adding one. Kristian Stead stopped 40 of 45 shots in goal. Game Summary.
Knoxville Torques Bolts with
4-2 Win in Knoxville.
January 21, 2023
Newly acquired defenseman Rourke Russell broke a 2-2 deadlock in the third period to help lead Knoxville past the visiting Evansville Thunderbolts. Nick Pryce added an insurance goal moments later. Dean Balsamo scored his 13th goal of the season in the first period before leaving with an injury. Cameron Hough knotted the game late in the second with his 10th goal of the season. Kristian Stead had 26 saves in 28 shots for the win. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Pull Away for Comfortable 5-2 Win over Visiting Fayetteville.
January 19, 2023
Jagger Williamson netted his second goal of the night late in the second period to give Knoxville a 3-2 lead at home over Fayetteville on Thursday night. Bailey Conger and Justin MacDonald added third period talleys to seal the win. Cameron Hough also scored in the first period. Kristian Stead saved 23 of 25 shots in his first game back off extended IR. Game Summary.
Peoria Claims Weekend Series with 6-2 Win Over Knoxville.
January 15, 2023
The Ice Bears jumped out to a 2-0 lead on goals by Cameron Hough and Justin MacDonald. Peoria then proceeded to reel off six straight goals as Knoxville could not stay out of the penalty box. Bailey MacBurnie was valiant in goal, but faced 9 power plays, 4 of which resulted in goals for the Rivermen, includiing a third period natural hat trick by Peoria's Jordan Ernst. MacBurnie finished with 34 saves on 39 shots. Game Summary.
Rivermen Even Weekend Series with 5-2 win in Peoria.
January 14, 2023
Peoria jumped to a three goal lead early in the second period to chase Knoxville's starting goalie Alec Calvaruso enroute to a 5-2 win in Peoria. Calvaruso finished with 7 saves on 10 shots. Goals by Justin MacDonald and Cameron Hough pulled Koxville to within 1 six minutes into the third period. Rex Moe appeared to tie the game with 12 minutes left, only to have it nullified by a late penalty on MacDonald for "Throwing Equipment out of the Playing Area." Peoria added two late goals on reliever Bailey MacBurnie for the final score. MacBurnie finished the last 37 minutes wtih 17 saves on 19 shots. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Hold Off Rivermen
6-4 in Peoria.
January 13, 2023
Justin MacDonald had a hat trick for his league leading 18th goal of the season to lead the Ice Bears to a 6-4 win in Peoria. Cameron Hough added two snipes from the right circle, and Colton Fletcher got his first goal as an Ice Bear this season with a wicked turn around wrister from the high slot. Bailey MacBurnie was excellant in goal with 37 saves on 41 shots. Game Summary.
Ice Bears get Revenge on the Havoc, 4-1 on Superhero Night.
January 7, 2023
The Ice Bears turned in an heroic performance on Superhero Night to claim a 4-1 win over the Huntsville Havoc to split the weekend series. Cameron Hough gave Knoxville the early lead with a goal in the first period. After Huntsville had tied it, Brett Beauvais got the game winner with a power play goal in the second. Dean Balsamo got an insurance goal moments later on another power play. Justin MacDonald added an empty netter in the third. Bailey MacBurnie was strong in net, turning away 26 of 27 Havoc shots on goal. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Drop Third Straight to the Havoc 5-8 in Huntsville.
January 6, 2023
Three on five power plays continued to plague the Ice Bears as they dropped their third straight game to the Havoc, 5-8 in Huntsville. Goals by Bailey Conger (2), Justin MacDonald, Rex Moe, and Nick Pryce could not overcome the power plays and superior passing by Huntsville. Bailey MacBurnie had 7 saves in 11 shots before being relieved by Alec Calvaruso in the second period. Calvaruso stopped 23 of 26 shots. Game Summary.
Birmingham wins OT Slugfest with Ice Bears 3-2 in Knoxville.
January 1, 2023
The Birmingham Bulls outlasted the Knoxville Ice Bears 3-2 in overtime on New Years night in Knoxville. The game featured a group hug midway through the second period, resulting in game misconduct penalties to Bailey Conger and Sacha Roy. The Bulls also were assessed two game misconducts. Kyler Matthews had both Knoxville goals. Bailey MacBurnie had 25 saves in 28 shots. Game Summary.
Knoxville Rights the Ship With Workmanlike 4-2 Win over Vermilion County.
December 31, 2022
The Ice Bears rang out the old year with a workmanlike 4-2 win over the visiting the Vermilion County Bobcats. Dean Balsamo had two goals. Kyler Matthews a goal in his first game back from suspension. Justin MacDonald added an empty netter. Bailey MacBurnie had 22 saves in 24 shots and a stop on a penalty shot by Tyler Gill. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Lose Third Straight in Huntsville, 2-4.
December 28, 2022
The Ice Bears dropped their third straight game 2-4 in Huntsville Wednesday Night. Newcomer Logan Coomes had both of Knoxville’s goals. Alec Calvaruso had 8 saves in 11 shots before giving way to newcomer Bailey MacBurnie with 8 minutes left in the first period. MacBurnie stopped all 17 shots he faced.
Knoxville Can’t Hold Early 3 Goal Lead, Lose at Home to Huntsville.
December 26, 2022
Tanner Salsberry, Bailey Conger, and Justin MacDonald staked the Ice Bears to a three goal lead in the first period at home on Monday night. The Havoc stormed back with six straight goals for the 6-3 win. Kristian Stead saved 6 of 6 to start the game before being injured in the first period. Alec Calvaruso stopped 16 of 21 shots in relief of Stead. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Drop Another Close One at Home to the Railyard Dawgs.
December 21, 2022
Knoxville couldn’t hold a third period lead and fell to Roanoke 5-6 at home on Wednesday. Tanner Salsberry had two goals, including a controversial one that gave the Bears the third period lead. Dean Balsamo also scored twice. Rex Moe added one in the middle of a three goal flurry spanning a minute and a half of the second period. Alec Calvaruso had 20 saves in 26 shots. Game Summary.
The 2023 Calendars Have Arrived Just in Time for Christmas!
December 19, 2022
Make someone’s Christmas truly special with a limited edition 2023 Ice Bears Souvenir Calendar. These are limited edition collector’s items so be sure to get yours while supplies last. The price is $15.00 at the Booster Club Table, available starting Wednesday for the Roanoke game. Get one--you’ll be glad you did. Go Ice Bears!
Booster Club Hosts Holiday Dinner for the Players.
December 18, 2022
The Booster Club Hosted its annual dinner with the Ice Bears on Sunday at the Scottish Rite Temple. The team rolled in early Sunday fresh off a two game sweep of Vermilion County, so they were in a festive mood. The Club always appreciates the players taking the time after a long road trip to attend these events and mingle with the fans.
Knoxville Completes Road Trip With 5-1 Win in Danville.
December 17, 2022
Knoxville continued its dominance of the Vermilion County Bobcats, winning 5-1 on Saturday. Jagger Williamson and Justin MacDonald scored for the second straight night. Brett Beauvais, Cole McKechney, and Dean Balsamo rounded out the scoring for the Ice Bears. Kristian Stead stopped 29 of 30 Bobcat shots in the winning effort. Game Summary.
Bears Maul Bobcats
In 7-1 Win.
December 16, 2022
Seven different Ice Bears had goals en route to a dominating 7-1 win over the Vermilion County Bobcats in Danville, Illinois on Friday Night. After spotting the Cats an early goal, Alec Calvaruso had 29 saves for the win. Ryan Devine and Jagger Williamson had their first goals as Ice Bears. Brady Fleurent, Justin MacDonald, Bailey Conger, Nick Pryce, and Cameron Hough also scored for Knoxville. Game Summary.
Knoxville Completes Sweep in Moline 3-1.
December 10, 2022
The Ice Bears gave up a power play goal 45 seconds into the game Saturday against the Quad City Storm. Alec Calvaruso stopped every other shot after that to claim the win in goal. Brady Fleurent evened it midway through the first period with a power play goal of his own. Dean Balsamo got the game winner with 5 minutes left in the third period. Rex Moe added an empty netter. Calvaruso finished with 41 saves in the winning effort. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Win 6-5 Overtime Thriller in Moline.
December 9, 2022
The Ice Bears outlasted the Quad City Storm Friday night in Moline, winning 6-5 in overtime. Brady Fleurent scored the game winning power play goal midway through the extra stanza. Fleurent also scored in regulation, as did newcomer Bailey Conger, who had two goals in his first outing with Knoxville. Dean Balsamo added a goal a three assists. Rex Moe had the other tally for the Bears. Kristian Stead got the win in net with 42 saves in 47 shots. Game Summary.
Knoxville’s Road Woes Continue in Fayetteville.
December 4, 2022
Knoxville’s road woes continued in Fayetteville Sunday as they suffered their first shut out loss of the season, 0-3 to the Marksmen. Fayetteville tallied on 2-3 power plays, as the Ice Bears tried to cope without several of their top line players. Kristian Stead had 25 saves on 28 Fayetteville shots.
Knoxville Loses First Game of Six Game Road Stint.
December 1, 2022
The Ice Bears dropped the first of their six game road stint 2-3 in Roanoke. The game featured three game misconducts and a rare goalie fight, as Knoxville accumulated 50 penalty minutes. Dean Balsamo and Justin MacDonald each had a goal for the Ice Bears. Newcomer Trevor Babin saved 38/41 shots before getting tossed in the third period following a run-in with Roanoke Goalie Austyn Roudebush. Kristian Stead finished the game with 4/4 saves. Game Summary.
Booster Club Holding Jersey Raffle From Now 'til Christmas.
November 26, 2022
The Booster Club is conducting a raffle of a team-signed warm up jersey from last season. These jerseys were highly regarded as the most attractive of the year. It is number 47, with no name plate.
Tickets are $5.00 each or three for $10.00. They may be purchased at the Booster Club Table next to Section T. The drawing will be held during the second intermission on December 26. Enter early and often and make someone’s Christmas truly special.
Ice Bears Drop Another Shootout at Home.
November 26, 2022
After leading most of the game, Knoxville gave up two goals in quick succession to fall behind Pensacola 2-3 in the third period. Brady Fleurent tied it with 15 seconds left to force the overtime and eventual shootout. Knoxville could not complete the parlay, however, as only Cameron Hough could manage a shootout goal to match his two in regulation. Newcomer Alec Calvaruso stopped 38/41 Ice Flyers shots on goal. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Ground Ice Flyers
4-2 at Home.
November 25, 2022
After falling behind early, Knoxville dominated the remainder of the game with a solid 4-2 win over Pensacola at home. Dean Balsamo scored a rebound wraparound to knot the score at one in the first period. Justin MacDonald added a power play goal. Jagger Williamson added his first goal as an Ice Bear in the second. Brady Fleurent iced it with an empty netter in the third. Jimmy Poreda got the win in goal with 30 saves. Game Summary.
Knoxville Upends Roanoke 2-1 in Overtime for Second Straight Road Win.
November 23, 2022
Knoxville claimed its second straight road win Wednesday in Roanoke, with a come from behind 2-1 effort in overtime. Justin MacDonald tied it at one apiece at 1:56 of the final stanza. Kyler Mathews got his second goal of the year for the game winner in overtime. Jimmy Poreda stopped 34 of 35 shots for the win. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Win 5-3 in Macon.
November 19, 2022
Despite yielding two shorthanded goals, Knoxville prevailed 5-3 over the Mayhem Sunday in Macon. Goals by Cameron Hough, Rex Moe, Brett Beauvais, and Justin MacDonald paced Knoxville’s scoring. Cole McKechney added a shorthanded insurance goal late in the third period to seal the win. Kristian Stead had 36 saves in the winning effort. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Drop Heartbreaker in Shootout.
November 18, 2022
Nick Pryce scored two goals for the Ice Bears, including the game-tying goal in the third period. It wasn’t enough, though, as the Peoria Rivermen claimed their second straight win in Knoxville. Alec Hagaman and Ben Assad had shootout goals for the win, as only Razmuz Waxin-Engback managed a shootout tally for Knoxville. Justin MacDonald had the other goal in regulation for the Ice Bears. Jimmy Poreda had 12 of 15 saves in the first two periods. Kristian Stead saved all 9 shots he faced in the third period and overtime. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Can’t Hold Early Lead; Fall to Peoria at Home.
November 17, 2022
Knoxville jumped out to an early lead against Peoria Thursday in Knoxville, but could not hold on as the Rivermen scored twice in the third period to win 3-2. Brett Beauvais and Dean Balsamo had staked the Ice Bears to a two goal lead within the first seven minutes. Knoxville could do no further damage, while Peoria scored three straight goals for the win. Kristian Stead had 24 saves in goal for Knoxville. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Outlast Bulls in Birmingham
November 11, 2022
Knoxville held on for a 5-4 win in Birmingham on Friday night. The teams traded goals until the Ice Bears took a 5-3 lead heading in to the third period. Birmingham added one late but it wasn’t enough to overtake the Bears. Brady Fleurent added two more goals to his league lead. Andrew Bellant, Razmuz Waxin-Engback, and Kyler Matthews also scored. Kristian Stead saved 36 of 40 shots for the win. Game Summary.
Knoxville Suffers First Home Loss of the Season 1-3.
November 5, 2022
The Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs defeated Knoxville for the third straight time over two seasons, 3-1 in Knoxville on Saturday. The loss was Knoxville’s first at home this season. Andrew Bellant had the lone goal for the Ice Bears. Jimmy Poreda saved 27 of 30 Roanoke shots in the losing effort. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Defeat Mayhem 3-2 at Home.
November 4, 2022
Brady Fleurent continued his torrid pace to start the season with two goals to lead Knoxville to a 3-2 win over Macon at home. Justin MacDonald assisted on both Fleurent goals and scored the game winner on a beautiful feed from Dean Balsamo. Kristian Stead stopped 19 of 21 Macon shots. Macon remained winless on the season. Game Summary.
Stead Saves 60 in Birmingham; Bellant Scores Hat Trick.
October 29, 2022
Kristian Stead saved 60 of 61 Birmingham shots to lead Knoxville to a 4-1 win in Birmingham. Andrew Bellant scored the hat trick in his second game back this season, the third goal coming on an empty netter. Justin MacDonald had the other Ice Bears’ tally. Knoxville claimed a share of first place in the SPHL standings with the win. Game Summary.
Ouderkirk Nets Two to Pace Ice Bears.
October 28, 2022
Brett Ouderkirk netted two early goals to pace Knoxville to a 5-2 win over visiting Fayetteville on Friday. The Ice Bears built a 5-0 lead with additional goals from Brady Fleurent, Justin MacDonald, and Razmuz Waxin-Engback before the Marksmen added two late goals. Jimmy Poreda had 25 saves in his season debut. Game Summary.
Booster Club Membership Special Offer.
October 25, 2022
The Booster Club is running a special for new memberships from now until November 5. Family memberships will be $40 (normally $50) and single memberships will be $25 (normally $30). The Membership application can be found at the link below. Just mail it in or bring it to a game. Come join the Team Behind the Team!!
Knoxville Suffers First Loss of the Season 3-4 in Evansville.
October 22, 2022
The Ice Bears suffered their first loss of the season, dropping the back end of the home & home weekend series with Evansville. After Knoxville lead early, the Bolts built a two goal lead in the third. Brett Ouderkirk had two goals for the Ice bears, but they could not overcome the deficit. Brady Fleurent had his third goal of the weekend for the other tally. Tom Aubrun had 37 saves in 41 shots in goal for Knoxville. Game Summary.
Ice Bears Net Three Third Period Goals to Claim the Season Opener over Evansville.
October 21, 2022
Knoxville netted three third period goals for the come from behind win in the season opener. After spotting Evansville two early goals, Captain Justin MacDonald scored the first goal of the season late in the second period. Cole McKechney tied it at 7:42 of the third before veteran Brady Fleurent got the game winner a minute later. Fleurent added an insurance goal to ice the win. Kristian Stead stopped 23 of 25 shots in goal. Game Summary.
Captains Named for 2022-2023 Season.
October 18, 2022
Ice Bears Head Coach Brent Clarke named his team captain and two alternate captains for the 2022-23 season on Monday. Forward Justin MacDonald will serve as captain while winger Dino Balsamo and defenseman Brett Beauvais will be the alternate captains for Clarke’s first season as Knoxville’s bench boss. . . . Read More.
Ice Bears Name Andrew Harrison Assistant Coach.
October 3, 2022
The Knoxville Ice Bears have added Andrew Harrison as the team’s new Assistant Coach. Harrison joins the Ice Bears after a ten-season playing career in which he appeared in over 400 professional games. . . . Read More.
Timothy Abbott Is Knoxville's New Equipment Manager.
August 31, 2022
The Knoxville Ice Bears have hired Timothy Abbott as the team’s new equipment manager. Abbott has over 30 years of experience as an equipment manager for professional sports teams, primarily ice hockey and football. . . . Read More.
Knoxville Hires Former Assistant Brent Clarke as New Head Coach.
August 24, 2022
The Knoxville Ice Bears have agreed to terms with Brent Clarke to be the organization’s seventh head coach in franchise history. Clarke comes to Knoxville from Watertown in the FPHL where he led the Wolves to the Commissioner’s Cup as the league’s 2022 playoff champion. He also won a title as the team’s head coach in 2015. He was named the league’s Coach of the Year in each of those seasons. . . . Read More.
Ice Bears Head Coach Jeff Carr Resigns to become Norfolk Assistant.
August 11, 2022
Knoxville Ice Bears head coach Jeff Carr has been hired by the Norfolk Admirals of the ECHL as the team’s new assistant coach. Carr concludes his tenure in Knoxville with a 151-83-24 (.631%) record, the 2021-22 Coach of the Year Award and the 2021-22 William B. Coffey Trophy as the Southern Professional Hockey League’s regular season champions. . . Read more.
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About Us
The Knoxville Ice Bears Booster Club (“KIBBC”) is a nonprofit corporation dedicated to assisting with the needs of players and the families of the Knoxville Ice Bears Hockey Team. We are a caring and enthusiastic group who hold fundraisers throughout the year to support our mission of making Knoxville a great place for the players to call home. We strive to make the members of the Knoxville Ice Bears as comfortable as possible during their time in Knoxville, to make them feel welcome in our community, and to introduce and promote hockey and the Ice Bears to the City of Knoxville and its surrounding areas.
Booster club members enjoy all kinds of benefits, such as special Thanksgiving and Christmas Dinners with the players, and other fun activities and events. Why not join today and be part of The Team Behind The Team!™
Becoming a member is easy!
If you would like to become a member of the KIBBC, simply download an application at the link below, or pick one up at the Booster Club table. Mail your completed application with your check or money order to the KIBBC at P.O. Box 51532, Knoxville, TN 37950, or bring your application and check to the next Booster Club meeting or home game. You’ll be glad you did!
The KIBBC is a nonprofit corporation that endeavors to operate in accordance with Section 501(c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue code. The KIBBC is registered as a nonprofit corporation under the laws of the State of Tennessee.
Officers 2023-2024
President - Rebecca Hedrick
Secretary - Kyla Black
Treasurer - Heather Terry
Vice President - Michelle Lopshire
Webmaster Emeritus - Jim Purvis (NP)
Member at Large - Tanya Allen
Webmaster - Dan Moore (NP)
Contact Us
Contact us with your questions, comments, and suggestions.
Dan Moore, Webmaster
Mailing Address:
c/o KIBBC
P.O. Box 51532
Knoxville, TN 37950
865-803-4723
