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{{Hockey team|CAN_eng = 1
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{{Infobox hockey team
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| team = Plymouth Whalers
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|team =Plymouth Whalers
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| colour = #00285D
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|colour =background:#FFFFFF; border-top:#4eae17 5px solid; border-bottom:#00285D 5px solid;
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| colour text = #4eae17
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|colour text=#000000
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| logo = Plymouthwhalers.png
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|logo =Plymouthwhalers.png
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|logosize =250px
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| city = [[Plymouth Township, Michigan|Plymouth, Michigan]]
  
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| league = [[Ontario Hockey League]]
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|city =[[Plymouth Township, Michigan|Plymouth, Michigan]]
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|league =[[Ontario Hockey League]]
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| conference = Western
  
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|conference =Western
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| division = West
  
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|division =West
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| founded = {{Start date|1990}}–1991
  
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|operated =1997–2015
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| arena = [[Compuware Arena]]
  
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|arena =[[Compuware Arena]]
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| colours = Navy blue, white, green and silver <br /> {{Color box|#00285D}} {{Color box|#FFFFFF}} {{Color box|#4eae17}} {{Color box|silver}}
  
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|colors =[[Navy blue]], white, green and silver <br /> {{Color box|#00285D}} {{Color box|#FFFFFF}} {{Color box|#4eae17}} {{Color box|silver}}
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| coach = {{Flagicon|USA}} [[Mike Vellucci]]
  
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|name1 =[[Detroit Compuware Ambassadors]]
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| GM = {{Flagicon|USA}} [[Mike Vellucci]]
  
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|dates1 =1990–1992
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| website = [http://www.plymouthwhalers.com/ www.plymouthwhalers.com]
  
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|name2 =[[Detroit Junior Red Wings]]
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| affiliates = [http://www.compuwareambassadors.com/ Compuware Ambassadors]
  
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|dates2 =1992–1995
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<!-- Franchise history below -->
  
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| name1 = [[Detroit Compuware Ambassadors]]
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|name3 =[[Detroit Whalers]]
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| dates1 = 1990–92
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|dates3 =1995–1997
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|name4 =Plymouth Whalers
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| name2 = [[Detroit Junior Red Wings]]
  
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| dates2 = 1992–95
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|dates4 =1997–2015
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| name3 = [[Detroit Whalers]]
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|name5 =[[Flint Firebirds]]
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| dates3 = 1995–97
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|dates5 =2015–present
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| name4 = Plymouth Whalers
  
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| dates4 = 1997–present
  
 
}}
  
}}
   
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The '''Plymouth Whalers''' were a major [[junior ice hockey]] team in the [[Ontario Hockey League]]. They played out of [[Compuware Arena]] in [[Plymouth Township, Michigan|Plymouth, Michigan]], USA, a suburb of [[Detroit]] until 2015 when they were relocated to [[Flint, Michigan]].
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[[Image:Plymouth-Saginaw Faceoff.JPG|right|250px|thumb|The Plymouth Whalers and [[Saginaw Spirit]] line up for a faceoff at the [[Compuware Arena]].]]
  
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[[Image:Whalers 10th Anniversary Logo.png|thumb|100px|Whalers 10th Anniversary Logo]]
  
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The '''Plymouth Whalers''' are a major [[junior ice hockey]] team in the [[Ontario Hockey League]]. They play out of [[Compuware Arena]] in [[Plymouth Township, Michigan|Plymouth, Michigan]], USA.
 
   
 
==History==
  
==History==
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The Whalers can trace their roots back to the 1990–91 [[Detroit Compuware Ambassadors]] as an expansion team in the OHL. Since then the franchise has been the [[Detroit Junior Red Wings]] and the [[Detroit Whalers]]. In 1998 they were officially called the "Plymouth Whalers" after the local municipality gave generous tax breaks to the team and venue. The franchise has been owned by [[Peter Karmanos]] since its inception.
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The Whalers can trace their roots back to the 1990–91 [[Detroit Compuware Ambassadors]] as an expansion team in the OHL. Since then the franchise has also been called the [[Detroit Junior Red Wings]] and the [[Detroit Whalers]]. In 1997 they were officially renamed the "Plymouth Whalers" after the local municipality gave generous tax breaks to the team and venue. The franchise was owned until 2015 by [[Peter Karmanos]], who also owned the NHL's [[Carolina Hurricanes]] (formerly the [[Hartford Whalers]], from which the OHL team's name was taken).
   
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[[File:Plymouth-Saginaw Faceoff.JPG|thumb|The Plymouth Whalers and [[Saginaw Spirit]] line up for a faceoff at the [[Compuware Arena]].]]
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The Whalers have been part of the Compuware Hockey program since 1990, which also includes the Compuware Ambassadors minor hockey program and the [[National Hockey League|NHL]]'s [[Carolina Hurricanes]], who were formerly the [[Hartford Whalers]], the namesake of the Detroit Whalers. The Carolina Hurricanes tend to give preference to players from the Plymouth Whalers in the [[NHL Entry Draft]], and coaches and executives are promoted from within the Compuware Hockey affiliation. [[Chad LaRose]] is the only player to have played at every level of Compuware hockey; Compuware AAA Ambassadors, Plymouth Whalers, [[Florida Everblades]], [[Lowell Lock Monsters]], and the Carolina Hurricanes.
 
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[[File:Whalers 10th Anniversary Logo.png|thumb|100px|Whalers 10th Anniversary Logo]]
   
 
Plymouth is one of only two teams to win 5 consecutive division titles (West division from 1999–2003, the other team being the Ottawa 67's (East division from 1996–2000). Plymouth has made the playoffs 17 consecutive seasons, since the 1991–92 season. The Whalers reached the OHL finals two consecutive seasons in 1999–2000, and 2000–01, losing to the [[Barrie Colts]] and [[Ottawa 67's]]. These seasons included future NHLers [[David Legwand]], [[Justin Williams]], [[Robert Esche]], and [[Stephen Weiss]].
  
Plymouth is one of only two teams to win 5 consecutive division titles (West division from 1999–2003, the other team being the Ottawa 67's (East division from 1996–2000). Plymouth has made the playoffs 17 consecutive seasons, since the 1991–92 season. The Whalers reached the OHL finals two consecutive seasons in 1999–2000, and 2000–01, losing to the [[Barrie Colts]] and [[Ottawa 67's]]. These seasons included future NHLers [[David Legwand]], [[Justin Williams]], [[Robert Esche]], and [[Stephen Weiss]].
   
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Celebrating their 10th Anniversary playing at the Compuware Arena during the 2005–06 season, all current Whalers players had been brought into the system by head coach and general manager [[Mike Vellucci]]. This created the build-up for the next year. Headed by overage captain [[John Vigilante]], the team's rookies in 2003 and 2004 came to fruition in [[James Neal]], [[Dan Collins (ice hockey)|Dan Collins]], and [[Tommy Sestito]]. Vellucci acquired the [[Belleville Bulls]]' leading scorer [[Evan Brophey]] and the [[Toronto St. Michael's Majors]] goaltender Justin Peters, who had an extensive resume. On the last game of the season, the Whalers played the [[Saginaw Spirit]], with the division title on the line, in what has been proven to be one of most exciting OHL games in recent history. With the Whalers' 2-0 lead going into the third period, the Spirit fought back and managed the tying goal just before time expired. However, Brophey scored in overtime to clinch the Whalers' 9th division title.
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Celebrating their 10th Anniversary playing at the Compuware Arena during the [[2005–06 OHL season|2005–06 season]], all current Whalers players had been brought into the system by head coach and general manager [[Mike Vellucci]]. This created the build-up for the next year. Headed by overage captain [[John Vigilante]], the team's rookies in 2003 and 2004 came to fruition in [[James Neal]], Dan Collins, and [[Tommy Sestito]]. Vellucci acquired the [[Belleville Bulls]]' leading scorer [[Evan Brophey]] and the [[Toronto St. Michael's Majors]] goaltender Justin Peters, who had an extensive resume. On the last game of the season, the Whalers played the [[Saginaw Spirit]], with the division title on the line, in what has been proven to be one of the most exciting OHL games in recent history. With the Whalers' 2–0 lead going into the third period, the Spirit fought back and managed the tying goal just before time expired. However, Brophey scored in overtime to clinch the Whalers' 9th division title.
   
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During the 2006–07 season, rookie goaltenders [[Jeremy Smith (ice hockey)|Jeremy Smith]] and [[Michal Neuvirth]], combined for the lowest goals against average in the OHL, with only 173 goals against in total. The Whalers had a number of high prospects signed or drafted by NHL teams, including former [[Wayne Gretzky 99 Award]] winner [[Daniel Ryder]], who was acquired, with him already having been signed with the [[Calgary Flames]]. After a very inconsistent start, the team improved to fall short of the [[London Knights]] by one point for the [[Hamilton Spectator Trophy]]. During the second half of the season and through the playoffs, the Whalers featured a 23 game winning streak at home, lasting three and a half months, falling at Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals to London. The Whalers, although seeded #2, easily won the [[Wayne Gretzky Trophy]] as Western Conference playoff champion, sweeping #7 Guelph, and winning in 5 against both #3 Kitchener and #1 London. In the final, the Whalers defeated the [[Sudbury Wolves]] in six games to win the [[J. Ross Robertson Cup]], thus earning the right to represent the OHL in the [[2007 Memorial Cup]].
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During the [[2006–07 OHL season|2006–07 season]], rookie goaltenders [[Jeremy Smith]] and [[Michal Neuvirth]], combined for the lowest goals against average in the OHL, with only 173 goals against in total. The Whalers had a number of high prospects signed or drafted by NHL teams, including former [[Wayne Gretzky 99 Award]] winner Daniel Ryder, who was acquired, with him already having been signed with the [[Calgary Flames]]. After a very inconsistent start, the team improved to fall short of the [[London Knights]] by one point for the [[Hamilton Spectator Trophy]]. During the second half of the season and through the playoffs, the Whalers featured a 23-game winning streak at home, lasting three and a half months, falling at Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals to London. The Whalers, although seeded #2, easily won the [[Wayne Gretzky Trophy]] as Western Conference playoff champion, sweeping #7 Guelph, and winning in 5 against both #3 Kitchener and #1 London. In the final, the Whalers defeated the [[Sudbury Wolves]] in six games to win the [[J. Ross Robertson Cup]], thus earning the right to represent the OHL in the [[2007 Memorial Cup]].
   
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In the Memorial Cup, the team suffered a rough start, losing to the [[Vancouver Giants]] 4-3 in overtime on May 18, and again to the [[Medicine Hat Tigers]] 4-1 on May 21. Their fortunes would change, however, on May 22, when they would defeat the [[Lewiston Maineiacs]] 2-1 in overtime, thus putting them in the tiebreaker game on May 24, in which they would defeat Lewiston again, 5-1, eliminating the Maineiacs from the Memorial Cup and advancing to the semifinal. However, on May 25, the Whalers would lose again to the [[Vancouver Giants]] in the semifinal round, this time in dramatic fashion by a score of 1-8. This way, the Whalers finished the [[2007 Memorial Cup]] in third place<ref>"Memorial Cup - History." Canadian Hockey League Network website, http://mastercardmemorialcup.com/cuphistory.php?y=2007. Accessed on March 20, 2010.</ref>.
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In the Memorial Cup, the team suffered a rough start, losing to the [[Vancouver Giants]] 4–3 in overtime on May 18, and again to the [[Medicine Hat Tigers]] 4–1 on May 21. Their fortunes would change, however, on May 22, when they would defeat the [[Lewiston Maineiacs]] 2–1 in overtime, thus putting them in the tiebreaker game on May 24, in which they would defeat Lewiston again, 5–1, eliminating the Maineiacs from the Memorial Cup and advancing to the semifinal. However, on May 25, the Whalers would lose again to the [[Vancouver Giants]] in the semifinal round, this time in dramatic fashion by a score of 8–1. This way, the Whalers finished the [[2007 Memorial Cup]] in third place.<ref>"Memorial Cup - History." Canadian Hockey League Network website, {{cite web |url=http://mastercardmemorialcup.com/cuphistory.php?y=2007 |title=Archived copy |access-date=2010-01-20 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100115081540/http://mastercardmemorialcup.com/cuphistory.php?y=2007 |archive-date=2010-01-15 }}. Accessed on March 20, 2010.</ref>
   
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The 2007–08 Whalers dealt the goaltender that led them to their 2007 OHL Championship, Michal Neuvirth, early, to make room for Jeremy Smith to start. Neuvirth was among 12 players that left/were traded from that team, leaving the team looking to a number of young players for leadership. Chris Terry led the team in scoring and was helped by overage captain Andrew Fournier and up-and-comer AJ Jenks. In mid-December 2007, President and GM Mike Vellucci left his head coaching position for Greg Stefan. A late season injury to overage defenseman Wes Cunningham hampered the flow of the team, leading to an early playoff exit at the hands of the eventual OHL champions, the Kitchener Rangers.
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During the [[2007–08 OHL season|2007–08 season]], the Whalers dealt the goaltender that led them to their 2007 OHL Championship, Michal Neuvirth, early to make room for Jeremy Smith to start. Neuvirth was among 12 players that left/were traded from that team, leaving the team looking to a number of young players for leadership. Chris Terry led the team in scoring and was helped by overage captain Andrew Fournier and up-and-comer AJ Jenks. In mid-December 2007, President and GM Mike Vellucci left his head coaching position for Greg Stefan. A late season injury to overage defenseman [[Wes Cunningham]] hampered the flow of the team, leading to an early playoff exit at the hands of the eventual OHL champions, the Kitchener Rangers.
   
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Early in the 08–09 Whalers' season, Stefan was recalled to the Hurricanes, where Mike Vellucci came back to fill the head coaching role. Injuries and inconsistency plagued the team, as they fell to dead last in the league. After the coaching change, as well as key trades, including a short lived experiment with Cory McGillis, then-leading scorer Matt Caria from the Greyhounds, Scott Fletcher from the Ice Dogs, and the return from AHL-playing Brett Bellemore, the team saw a turn around by Christmas putting them back into the middle of the pack. At the deadline, as a result of Bellemore's return and the emergence of Matt Hackett as the new starting goaltender, Patrick Lee and Jeremy Smith were traded to Niagara for draft picks.
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Early in the [[2008–09 OHL season|2008–09 season]], Stefan was recalled to the Hurricanes, where Mike Vellucci came back to fill the head coaching role. Injuries and inconsistency plagued the team, as they fell to dead last in the league. After the coaching change, as well as key trades, including a short lived experiment with Cory McGillis, then-leading scorer Matt Caria from the Greyhounds, [[Scott Fletcher]] from the Ice Dogs, and the return from AHL-playing Brett Bellemore, the team saw a turn around by Christmas putting them back into the middle of the pack. At the deadline, as a result of Bellemore's return and the emergence of [[Matt Hackett]] as the new starting goaltender, Patrick Lee and Jeremy Smith were traded to Niagara for draft picks.
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The [[2009–10 OHL season|2009–10 season]] saw the Whalers led by league MVP [[Tyler Seguin]] along with other top scorers such as [[Myles McCauley]].
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On December 29, 2013, the Whalers and the [[London Knights]] broke the newly set [[Canadian Hockey League]] attendance record. The Knights and Whalers, playing in the second OHL game of the evening outdoors at [[Comerica Park]] in [[Detroit]], [[Michigan]] (also the second outdoor game ever played in the OHL), played in front of 26,384 spectators. The Whalers won the game 2–1 in a shootout.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://blogs.windsorstar.com/2013/12/29/spits-top-spirit-6-5-at-comerica-park/ |title=Spits top Spirit 6-5 at Comerica Park &#124; Windsor Star |access-date=2013-12-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131231082046/http://blogs.windsorstar.com/2013/12/29/spits-top-spirit-6-5-at-comerica-park/ |archive-date=2013-12-31 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
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On January 14, 2015, owner Peter Karmanos announced that the Whalers would be relocated to [[Flint, Michigan]] after a sale of the team to the owner of Flint's [[Perani Arena and Event Center]] for the [[2015–16 OHL season|2015–16 season]]. The OHL approved the sale, and the relocated franchise is named the [[Flint Firebirds]]. On March 21, the Plymouth Whalers played their final game in franchise history losing 5–1 to the Erie Otters.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.mlive.com/sports/flint/index.ssf/2015/02/its_official_ontario_hockey_le.html#incart_river | title=It's official: Ontario Hockey League approves Plymouth Whalers' move to Flint | publisher=[[The Flint Journal]] | work=MLive.com | date=February 2, 2015 | access-date=February 2, 2015 | author=McMann, Aaron}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.mlive.com/sports/flint/index.ssf/2015/03/flint_firebirds_unveiled_as_na.html | title='Flint Firebirds' unveiled as name for Flint's new OHL team | publisher=[[The Flint Journal]] | work=MLive.com | date=March 16, 2015 | access-date=March 16, 2015 | author=McMann, Aaron}}</ref>
   
 
==Championships==
  
==Championships==
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The Plymouth Whalers have won seven divisional titles, five of them consecutively. Plymouth has also won three Hamilton Spectator trophies and reached the OHL Championship Finals three times, winning during the 2006–07 season.
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The Plymouth Whalers have won eight divisional titles, five of them consecutively. Plymouth has also won three Hamilton Spectator trophies and reached the OHL Championship Finals three times, winning during the [[2006–07 OHL season|2006–07 season]].
 
 
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{{col-begin}}
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<TABLE CELLSPACING=10><TR><TD WIDTH=50% VALIGN=TOP>
  
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{{col-break}}
 
'''[[J. Ross Robertson Cup]]<br>OHL Champion'''
  
'''[[J. Ross Robertson Cup]]<br>OHL Champion'''
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*''1999–00'' Finalists vs. Barrie Colts
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*''1999–2000'' Finalists vs. Barrie Colts
 
*''2000–01'' Finalists vs. Ottawa 67's
  
*''2000–01'' Finalists vs. Ottawa 67's
 
*''2006–07'' Champions vs. Sudbury Wolves
  
*''2006–07'' Champions vs. Sudbury Wolves
 
<br>
  
<br>
 
'''[[Wayne Gretzky Trophy]]<br>Western Conference Playoff Champion'''
  
'''[[Wayne Gretzky Trophy]]<br>Western Conference Playoff Champion'''
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*''1999–00, 2000–01 and 2006–07''
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*''1999–2000, 2000–01 and 2006–07''
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{{col-break|width=50%|gap=1em}}
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</TD><TD WIDTH=50% VALIGN=TOP>
  
 
'''[[Hamilton Spectator Trophy]]<br>Season Champion'''
  
'''[[Hamilton Spectator Trophy]]<br>Season Champion'''
 
*''1998–99'' 51 wins, 4 ties, 106 pts
  
*''1998–99'' 51 wins, 4 ties, 106 pts
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*''1999–00'' 45 wins, 4 ties, 1 OTL, 95 pts
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*''1999–2000'' 45 wins, 4 ties, 1 OTL, 95 pts
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*''2001–02'' 39 wins, 12 ties, 2 OTL, 92 pts
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*''2001–02'' 39 wins, 12 ties, 2 OTL, 92 pts
   
 
'''[[Bumbacco Trophy]]<br>West Division Champion'''
  
'''[[Bumbacco Trophy]]<br>West Division Champion'''
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*''1998–99'', ''1999–00'', ''2000–01'', ''2001–02'', ''2002–03'', ''2005–06'', ''2006–07''
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*''1998–99'', ''1999–2000'', ''2000–01'', ''2001–02'', ''2002–03'', ''2005–06'', ''2006–07'', ''2011–12'', ''2012-13''
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{{col-end}}
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</TD></TR></TABLE>
  
   
 
==Coaches==
  
==Coaches==
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*'''1995–01''' [[Peter DeBoer]] (6 seasons) - DeBoer was promoted from assistant coach to become coach & general manager of the Whalers organization in 1995. DeBoer was twice voted the OHL Coach of the Year, winning the [[Matt Leyden Trophy]] in the 1998–99 and 1999–00 seasons. DeBoer left to coach the [[Kitchener Rangers]].
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*'''1995–01''' [[Peter DeBoer]] (6 seasons) - DeBoer was promoted from assistant coach to become coach & general manager of the Whalers organization in 1995. DeBoer was twice voted the OHL Coach of the Year, winning the [[Matt Leyden Trophy]] in the 1998–99 and 1999–2000 seasons. DeBoer left to coach the [[Kitchener Rangers]].
 
*'''mid-2007-mid-2008''' [[Greg Stefan]] (2 seasons) - Stefan began his coaching career in 1993 with the Detroit Junior Red Wings. He served as an assistant coach in Plymouth until 1998, and re-joined the Whalers as director of player development and assistant coach in 2003. Named head coach during the 2007–08 season when Vellucci moved to focus on the front office, Stefan left the Whalers in the middle of the 2008–09 season to take a scouting job with the [[Carolina Hurricanes]].
  
*'''mid-2007-mid-2008''' [[Greg Stefan]] (2 seasons) - Stefan began his coaching career in 1993 with the Detroit Junior Red Wings. He served as an assistant coach in Plymouth until 1998, and re-joined the Whalers as director of player development and assistant coach in 2003. Named head coach during the 2007–08 season when Vellucci moved to focus on the front office, Stefan left the Whalers in the middle of the 2008–09 season to take a scouting job with the [[Carolina Hurricanes]].
 
*'''2001-mid-2007; mid-2008–pres''' [[Mike Vellucci]] (8th season) - Vellucci was promoted to President of the Plymouth Whalers in 2000 and was appointed the team's general manager and head coach in 2001. In 2007, Vellucci won the [[Matt Leyden Trophy]] as Ontario Hockey League Coach of the Year - the first American ever to win the award. Vellucci stepped down in the middle of the 2007–08 season to focus on his GM position. He returned as head coach of the club in the middle of the 2008–09 season with Stefan's moving to the Hurricanes.
  
*'''2001-mid-2007; mid-2008–pres''' [[Mike Vellucci]] (8th season) - Vellucci was promoted to President of the Plymouth Whalers in 2000 and was appointed the team's general manager and head coach in 2001. In 2007, Vellucci won the [[Matt Leyden Trophy]] as Ontario Hockey League Coach of the Year - the first American ever to win the award. Vellucci stepped down in the middle of the 2007–08 season to focus on his GM position. He returned as head coach of the club in the middle of the 2008–09 season with Stefan's moving to the Hurricanes.
   
 
==Rivals==
  
==Rivals==
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*[[Windsor Spitfires]]: proximity, considering the 30 mile distance between the two teams' arenas, has made this the Whalers' largest rivalry.
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*[[Windsor Spitfires]]: proximity, considering the 30 mile distance between the two teams' arenas, has made this the Whalers' largest rivalry.
 
   
 
*[[Saginaw Spirit]]: The Spirit are another major rival of the Whalers, due to both proximity and the fact that Saginaw is the other Michigan-based OHL team, making games between the two a battle for state bragging rights. Also, the Whalers traded to get the Spirit's captain on a run in the playoffs in 2003, and beat the Spirit for the division title in overtime on the last game of the season in 2006.
  
*[[Saginaw Spirit]]: The Spirit are another major rival of the Whalers, due to both proximity and the fact that Saginaw is the other Michigan-based OHL team, making games between the two a battle for state bragging rights. Also, the Whalers traded to get the Spirit's captain on a run in the playoffs in 2003, and beat the Spirit for the division title in overtime on the last game of the season in 2006.
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===Team captains===
  
===Team captains===
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{{colbegin|colwidth=35em}}
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<TABLE CELLSPACING="10"><TR><TD VALIGN=TOP>
  
 
*'''1990–91''' [[Paul Mitton]]
  
*'''1990–91''' [[Paul Mitton]]
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*'''1991''' [[Mark Lawrence (ice hockey)|Mark Lawrence]] (traded)
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*'''1991''' [[Mark Lawrence]] (traded)
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*'''1991–93''' [[Pat Peake]]
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*'''1991–93''' [[Pat Peake]]
 
*'''1993–95''' [[Jamie Allison]]
  
*'''1993–95''' [[Jamie Allison]]
 
*'''1995–96''' [[Bryan Berard]]
  
*'''1995–96''' [[Bryan Berard]]
 
*'''1996–97''' [[Mike Morrone]]
  
*'''1996–97''' [[Mike Morrone]]
−
*'''1997–98''' [[Andrew Taylor (ice hockey)|Andrew Taylor]]
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*'''1997–98''' [[Andrew Taylor]]
 
*'''1998–00''' [[Randy Fitzgerald]]
  
*'''1998–00''' [[Randy Fitzgerald]]
 
*'''2000–02''' [[Jared Newman]]
  
*'''2000–02''' [[Jared Newman]]
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</TD><TD VALIGN=TOP>
  
 
*'''2002–03''' [[Nate Kiser]]
  
*'''2002–03''' [[Nate Kiser]]
 
*'''2003–04''' [[James Wisniewski]]
  
*'''2003–04''' [[James Wisniewski]]
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*'''2004–05''' [[Tim Sestito]] (home) & [[John Mitchell (ice hockey)|John Mitchell]] (away & playoffs)
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*'''2004–05''' [[Tim Sestito]] (home) & [[John Mitchell]] (away & playoffs)
 
*'''2005–06''' [[John Vigilante]]
  
*'''2005–06''' [[John Vigilante]]
−
*'''2006–07''' [[Steve Ward (ice hockey)|Steve Ward]]
 +
*'''2006–07''' [[Steve Ward]]
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*'''2007–08''' [[Andrew Fournier]] (home & playoffs) & [[Chris Terry (ice hockey)|Chris Terry]] (away)
 +
*'''2007–08''' [[Andrew Fournier]] (home & playoffs) & [[Chris Terry]] (away)
 
*'''2008–09''' [[Chris Terry (ice hockey)|Chris Terry]]
  
*'''2008–09''' [[Chris Terry (ice hockey)|Chris Terry]]
−
*'''2009-10''' [[Tyler Seguin]] & [[AJ Jenks]]
 +
*'''2009–10''' AJ Jenks
  +
*'''2010–12''' [[Beau Schmitz]]
−
</TD></TR></TABLE>
  
  +
*'''2012–13''' [[Colin MacDonald]]
  +
*'''2013–14''' [[Nick Malysa]]
  +
*'''2014–15''' [[Alex Peters]]
  +
{{colend}}
   
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===Award winners===
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=== Award winners===
 
*''1997–98'' - '''[[David Legwand]]''': [[Canadian Hockey League]] Rookie of the Year, [[Emms Family Award]] OHL Rookie of the Year, [[Red Tilson Trophy]] Most Outstanding Player of the Year
  
*''1997–98'' - '''[[David Legwand]]''': [[Canadian Hockey League]] Rookie of the Year, [[Emms Family Award]] OHL Rookie of the Year, [[Red Tilson Trophy]] Most Outstanding Player of the Year
 
*''1998–99'' - '''[[Robert Holsinger]]''' & '''[[Rob Zepp]]''': [[Dave Pinkney Trophy]] Lowest Team GAA
  
*''1998–99'' - '''[[Robert Holsinger]]''' & '''[[Rob Zepp]]''': [[Dave Pinkney Trophy]] Lowest Team GAA
 
*''1998–99'' - '''[[Rob Zepp]]''': [[Canadian Hockey League]] Scholastic Player of the Year, [[Bobby Smith Trophy]] OHL Scholastic Player of the Year
  
*''1998–99'' - '''[[Rob Zepp]]''': [[Canadian Hockey League]] Scholastic Player of the Year, [[Bobby Smith Trophy]] OHL Scholastic Player of the Year
−
*''1999–00'' - '''[[Rob Zepp]]''' and '''[[Bill Ruggiero]]''': [[Dave Pinkney Trophy]] Lowest Team GAA
 +
*''1999–2000'' - '''[[Rob Zepp]]''' and '''[[Bill Ruggiero]]''': [[Dave Pinkney Trophy]] Lowest Team GAA
 
*''2000–01'' - '''[[Rob Zepp]]''' and '''[[Paul Drew]]''': [[Dave Pinkney Trophy]] Lowest Team GAA
  
*''2000–01'' - '''[[Rob Zepp]]''' and '''[[Paul Drew]]''': [[Dave Pinkney Trophy]] Lowest Team GAA
 
*''2001–02'' - '''[[Jason Bacashihua]]''' and '''[[Paul Drew]]''': [[Dave Pinkney Trophy]] Lowest Team GAA
  
*''2001–02'' - '''[[Jason Bacashihua]]''' and '''[[Paul Drew]]''': [[Dave Pinkney Trophy]] Lowest Team GAA
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*''2006–07'' - '''[[Michal Neuvirth]]''' & '''[[Jeremy Smith (ice hockey)|Jeremy Smith]]''': [[Dave Pinkney Trophy]] Lowest Team GAA
  
*''2006–07'' - '''[[Michal Neuvirth]]''' & '''[[Jeremy Smith (ice hockey)|Jeremy Smith]]''': [[Dave Pinkney Trophy]] Lowest Team GAA
 
*''2006–07'' - '''[[Michal Neuvirth]]''': [[F.W. 'Dinty' Moore Trophy]] Best Rookie GAA
  
*''2006–07'' - '''[[Michal Neuvirth]]''': [[F.W. 'Dinty' Moore Trophy]] Best Rookie GAA
−
*''2008–09'' - '''[[Chris Terry (ice hockey)|Chris Terry]]''': [[Mickey Renaud Captain's Trophy]] Captain of the Year
 +
*''2008–09'' - '''[[Chris Terry]]''': [[Mickey Renaud Captain's Trophy]] Captain of the Year
−
*''2008–09'' - '''[[Chris Terry (ice hockey)|Chris Terry]]''': [[Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy]] Humanitarian of the Year
 +
*''2008–09'' - '''[[Chris Terry]]''': [[Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy]] OHL Humanitarian of the Year
−
*''2009–10'' - '''[[Ryan Hayes]]''': [[Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy]] Humanitarian of the Year
 +
*''2009–10'' - '''[[Ryan Hayes]]''': [[Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy]] OHL Humanitarian of the Year
  +
*''2009–10'' - '''[[Ryan Hayes]]''': [[Canadian Hockey League]] Humanitarian of the Year
 
*''2009–10'' - '''[[Tyler Seguin]]''': [[Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy]] Most Points in the OHL
  
*''2009–10'' - '''[[Tyler Seguin]]''': [[Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy]] Most Points in the OHL
−
*''2009-10'' - '''[[Tyler Seguin]]''': [[Red Tilson Trophy]] OHL Most Outstanding Player of the Year
 +
*''2009–10'' - '''[[Tyler Seguin]]''': [[Red Tilson Trophy]] OHL Most Outstanding Player of the Year
  +
*''2009–10'' - '''[[Tyler Seguin]]''': [[Canadian Hockey League]] Top Prospect
  +
*''2012-13'' - '''[[Vincent Trocheck]]''': [[Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy]] Most Points in the OHL
  +
*''2012-13'' - '''[[Alex Nedeljkovic]]''': [[F.W. 'Dinty' Moore Trophy]] Best Rookie GAA
  +
*''2013-14'' - '''[[Alex Nedeljkovic]]''': OHL Goaltender of the Year
   
 
==Notable players==
  
==Notable players==
−
===First round NHL Entry Draft picks===
 +
=== First round NHL Entry Draft picks===
 
''Players who were drafted in the first round of the [[NHL Entry Draft]] while playing for the Whalers franchise.''
  
''Players who were drafted in the first round of the [[NHL Entry Draft]] while playing for the Whalers franchise.''
 
*[[1991 NHL Entry Draft|1991]]: [[Pat Peake]], 14th Overall, [[Washington Capitals]]
  
*[[1991 NHL Entry Draft|1991]]: [[Pat Peake]], 14th Overall, [[Washington Capitals]]
Line 138: Line 149:
 
*[[2000 NHL Entry Draft|2000]]: [[Justin Williams]], 28th Overall, [[Philadelphia Flyers]]
  
*[[2000 NHL Entry Draft|2000]]: [[Justin Williams]], 28th Overall, [[Philadelphia Flyers]]
 
*[[2001 NHL Entry Draft|2001]]: [[Stephen Weiss]], 4th Overall, [[Florida Panthers]]
  
*[[2001 NHL Entry Draft|2001]]: [[Stephen Weiss]], 4th Overall, [[Florida Panthers]]
−
*[[2010 NHL Entry Draft|2010]]: [[Tyler Seguin]], 1st/2nd Overall, [[Edmonton Oilers]]/[[Boston Bruins]]
 +
*[[2010 NHL Entry Draft|2010]]: [[Tyler Seguin]], 2nd Overall, [[Boston Bruins]]
  +
*[[2011 NHL Entry Draft|2011]]: [[Stefan Noesen]], 21st Overall, [[Ottawa Senators]]
  +
*[[2011 NHL Entry Draft|2011]]: [[Rickard Rakell]], 30th Overall, [[Anaheim Ducks]]
  +
*[[2012 NHL Entry Draft|2012]]: [[Tom Wilson]], 16th Overall, [[Washington Capitals]]
  +
*[[2013 NHL Entry Draft|2013]]: [[Ryan Hartman]], 30th Overall, [[Chicago Blackhawks]]
   
 
===Second round NHL Entry Draft picks===
  
===Second round NHL Entry Draft picks===
Line 155: Line 170:
 
''List of Plymouth Whalers alumni who have played in the [[National Hockey League]].''
  
''List of Plymouth Whalers alumni who have played in the [[National Hockey League]].''
   
  +
{{colbegin|colwidth=18em}}
−
<TABLE><TR><TD VALIGN=TOP>
  
 
*[[Jamie Allison]]
  
*[[Jamie Allison]]
 
*[[Yuri Babenko]]
  
*[[Yuri Babenko]]
 
*[[Jason Bacashihua]]
  
*[[Jason Bacashihua]]
  +
*[[Brett Bellemore]]
 
*[[Bryan Berard]]
  
*[[Bryan Berard]]
 
*[[Jared Boll]]
  
*[[Jared Boll]]
 
*[[Jesse Boulerice]]
  
*[[Jesse Boulerice]]
 
*[[Fred Brathwaite]]
  
*[[Fred Brathwaite]]
  +
*[[Evan Brophey]]
−
*[[Kevin Brown (ice hockey)|Kevin Brown]]
  
  +
*[[Kevin Brown]]]]
 
*[[Eric Cairns]]
  
*[[Eric Cairns]]
−
*[[Gregory Campbell (ice hockey)|Gregory Campbell]]
 +
*[[Gregory Campbell]]
  +
*[[Connor Carrick]]
  +
*[[Jamie Devane]]
 
*[[Harold Druken]]
  
*[[Harold Druken]]
 
*[[Robert Esche]]
  
*[[Robert Esche]]
  +
*[[Matt Hackett]]
−
</TD><TD VALIGN=TOP>
  
 
*[[Todd Harvey]]
  
*[[Todd Harvey]]
 
*[[Sean Haggerty]]
  
*[[Sean Haggerty]]
 
*[[Cole Jarrett]]
  
*[[Cole Jarrett]]
  +
*[[Michal Jordan]]
 
*[[Tomas Kurka]]
  
*[[Tomas Kurka]]
 
*[[Chad LaRose]]
  
*[[Chad LaRose]]
−
*[[Mark Lawrence (ice hockey)|Mark Lawrence]]
 +
*[[Mark Lawrence]]
 
*[[David Legwand]]
  
*[[David Legwand]]
 
*[[David Liffiton]]
  
*[[David Liffiton]]
 
*[[Paul Mara]]
  
*[[Paul Mara]]
 
*[[Eric Manlow]]
  
*[[Eric Manlow]]
  +
*[[Philip McRae]]
  +
*[[Sonny Milano]]
  +
*[[J. T. Miller]]
 
*[[Mike Minard]]
  
*[[Mike Minard]]
−
*[[John Mitchell (ice hockey)|John Mitchell]]
 +
*[[John Mitchell]]
−
</TD><TD VALIGN=TOP>
  
 
*[[James Neal]]
  
*[[James Neal]]
  +
*[[Alex Nedeljkovic]]
 
*[[Michal Neuvirth]]
  
*[[Michal Neuvirth]]
  +
*[[Stefan Noesen]]
 
*[[Pat Peake]]
  
*[[Pat Peake]]
 
*[[Justin Peters]]
  
*[[Justin Peters]]
  +
*[[Rickard Rakell]]
 
*[[Keith Redmond]]
  
*[[Keith Redmond]]
−
*[[Mike Rucinski (ice hockey b. 1975)|Mike Rucinski]]
 +
*[[Mike Rucinski (b. 1975)|Mike Rucinski]]
  +
*[[Tyler Seguin]]
 
*[[Tim Sestito]]
  
*[[Tim Sestito]]
 
*[[Tom Sestito]]
  
*[[Tom Sestito]]
 
*[[Karl Stewart]]
  
*[[Karl Stewart]]
 
*[[Damian Surma]]
  
*[[Damian Surma]]
  +
*[[Chris Terry]]
−
</TD><TD VALIGN=TOP>
  
 
*[[Chris Thorburn]]
  
*[[Chris Thorburn]]
  +
*[[Vincent Trocheck]]
 
*[[Nikos Tselios]]
  
*[[Nikos Tselios]]
 
*[[Kris Vernarsky]]
  
*[[Kris Vernarsky]]
 
*[[Jason Ward]]
  
*[[Jason Ward]]
  +
*[[Scott Wedgewood]]
 
*[[Stephen Weiss]]
  
*[[Stephen Weiss]]
 
*[[Derek Wilkinson]]
  
*[[Derek Wilkinson]]
 
*[[Justin Williams]]
  
*[[Justin Williams]]
  +
*[[Tom Wilson]]
 
*[[Chad Wiseman]]
  
*[[Chad Wiseman]]
 
*[[James Wisniewski]]
  
*[[James Wisniewski]]
 
*[[Bob Wren]]
  
*[[Bob Wren]]
  +
*[[Rob Zepp]]
−
</TD></TR></TABLE>
  
  +
{{colend}}
−  
−
===Current roster===
  
−  
−
{| width=90%
  
−
!colspan=6 |<center><big>Goaltenders
  
−
|- bgcolor="#dddddd"
  
−
!width=5%|#
  
−
!width=5%|
  
−
|align=left!!width=15%|'''Player'''
  
−
!width=8%|Catches
  
−
!width=9%|NHL rights
  
−
!width=37%|Place of birth
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''29'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|CAN}}
  
−
|[[Scott Wedgewood]]
  
−
|align=center|L
  
−
|align=center|Eligible in 2010
  
−
|[[Brampton, Ontario]]
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''31'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|CAN}}
  
−
|[[Matt Hackett]]
  
−
|align=center|L
  
−
|align=center|[[Minnesota Wild|'''MIN''']] [[2009 NHL Entry Draft|2009]]
  
−
|[[London, Ontario]]
  
−
|}
  
−  
−
{| width=90%
  
−
!colspan=6 |<center><big>Defensemen
  
−
|- bgcolor="#dddddd"
  
−
!width=5%|#
  
−
!width=5%|
  
−
|align=left!!width=15%|'''Player'''
  
−
!width=8%|Shoots
  
−
!width=9%|NHL rights
  
−
!width=37%|Place of birth
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''3'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|CAN}}
  
−
|[[Colin MacDonald]]
  
−
|align=center|L
  
−
|align=center|Eligible in 2010
  
−
|[[London, Ontario]]
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''4'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|CAN}}
  
−
|[[Leo Jenner]] - A
  
−
|align=center|L
  
−
|align=center|Free Agent
  
−
|[[Dorchester, Ontario]]
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''6'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|USA}}
  
−
|[[Josh Bemis]]
  
−
|align=center|L
  
−
|align=center|Eligible in 2010
  
−
|[[Clarkston, Michigan]]
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''7'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|USA}}
  
−
|[[Austin Levi]]
 
−
|align=center|L
  
−
|align=center|Eligible in 2010
  
−
|[[Farmington Hills, Michigan]]
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''17'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|USA}}
  
−
|[[Beau Schmitz]]
  
−
|align=center|R
  
−
|align=center|Eligible in 2010
  
−
|[[Howell, Michigan]]
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''19'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|USA}}
  
−
|[[Nick Malysa]]
 
−
|align=center|L
  
−
|align=center|Eligible in 2011
  
−
|[[Bridgewater, New Jersey]]
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''32'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|CZE}}
  
−
|[[Michal Jordan]]
  
−
|align=center|L
  
−
|align=center|[[Carolina Hurricanes|'''CAR''']] [[2008 NHL Entry Draft|2008]]
  
−
|[[Zlín, Czech Republic]]
  
−
|}
  
−
{| width=90%
  
−
!colspan=7 |<center><big>Forwards
  
−
|- bgcolor="#dddddd"
  
−
!width=5%|#
  
−
!width=5%|
  
−
|align=left!!width=15%|'''Player'''
  
−
!width=8%|Position
  
−
!width=8%|Shoots
  
−
!width=9%|NHL rights
  
−
!width=37%|Place of birth
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''8'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|USA}}
  
−
|[[Austin Mattson]]
  
−
|align=center|RW
  
−
|align=center|R
  
−
|align=center|Eligible in 2010
  
−
|[[Livonia, Michigan]]
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''9'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|CAN}}
  
−
|[[Tyler Seguin]] - C
  
−
|align=center|C
  
−
|align=center|R
  
−
|align=center|Eligible in 2010
  
−
|[[Brampton, Ontario]]
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''10'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|USA}}
  
−
|[[Ryan Hayes]] - A
  
−
|align=center|RW
  
−
|align=center|R
  
−
|align=center|Free Agent
  
−
|[[Syracuse, New York]]
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''11'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|USA}}
  
−
|[[Stefan Noesen]]
  
−
|align=center|R
  
−
|align=center|RW
  
−
|align=center|Eligible in 2011
  
−
|[[Plano, Texas]]
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''12'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|CAN}}
  
−
|[[Tyler G. Brown]]
  
−
|align=center|C
  
−
|align=center|L
  
−
|align=center|Eligible in 2010
  
−
|[[Wasaga Beach, Ontario]]
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''13'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|USA}}
  
−
|[[Myles McCauley]]
  
−
|align=center|RW
  
−
|align=center|R
  
−
|align=center|Eligible in 2010
  
−
|[[Sterling Heights, Michigan]]
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''15'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|CAN}}
  
−
|[[Mitchell Heard]]
  
−
|align=center|L
  
−
|align=center|LW
  
−
|align=center|Eligible in 2010
  
−
|[[Bowmanville, Ontario]]
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''16'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|CAN}}
  
−
|[[Garrett Meurs]]
 
−
|align=center|C
  
−
|align=center|R
  
−
|align=center|Eligible in 2011
  
−
|[[Ripley, Ontario]]
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''20'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|CAN}}
  
−
|[[James Marsden]]
  
−
|align=center|RW
  
−
|align=center|R
  
−
|align=center|Undrafted
  
−
|[[Exeter, Ontario]]
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''21'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|USA}}
  
−
|[[RJ Mahalak]]
  
−
|align=center|LW
  
−
|align=center|L
  
−
|align=center|Eligible in 2010
  
−
|[[Monroe, Michigan]]
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''22'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|USA}}
  
−
|[[AJ Jenks]] - C
  
−
|align=center|LW
  
−
|align=center|L
  
−
|align=center|[[Florida Panthers|'''FLA''']] [[2008 NHL Entry Draft|2008]]
  
−
|[[Wolverine Lake, Michigan]]
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''23'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|CAN}}
  
−
|[[Jamie Devane]]
  
−
|align=center|LW
  
−
|align=center|L
  
−
|align=center|[[Toronto Maple Leafs|'''TOR''']] [[2009 NHL Entry Draft|2009]]
  
−
|[[Mississauga, Ontario]]
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''24'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|CAN}}
  
−
|[[Joe Gaynor]] - A
  
−
|align=center|LW
  
−
|align=center|L
  
−
|align=center|Free Agent
  
−
|[[Goderich, Ontario]]
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''26'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|USA}}
  
−
|[[Tyler J. Brown]]
  
−
|align=center|LW
  
−
|align=center|L
  
−
|align=center|Eligible in 2010
  
−
|[[Westland, Michigan]]
  
−
|-bgcolor="#eeeeee"
  
−
|align=center|'''37'''
  
−
|align=center|{{flagicon|CAN}}
  
−
|[[Josh Brittain]]
  
−
|align=center|LW
  
−
|align=center|L
  
−
|align=center|[[Anaheim Ducks|'''ANA''']] [[2008 NHL Entry Draft|2008]]
  
−
|[[Milton, Ontario]]
  
−
|}
  
   
 
==Franchise records==
  
==Franchise records==
 
''A complete list of team records can be found [http://www.plymouthwhalers.com/history.html here].''
  
''A complete list of team records can be found [http://www.plymouthwhalers.com/history.html here].''
−
{| align=left border="1" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1" bgcolor="#ffffff" style="border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; border-collapse: collapse;"
 +
{| align="left" border="1" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1" bgcolor="#ffffff" style="border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; border-collapse: collapse;"
−
| align="center" bgcolor="#eeeeee" colspan=3 style="border-bottom:1px #aaaaaa solid;" | '''Team records for a single season'''
 +
| colspan="3" align="center" bgcolor="#eeeeee" style="border-bottom:1px #aaaaaa solid;" |'''Team records for a single season'''
 
|-
  
|-
 
!Statistic!!Total!!Season
  
!Statistic!!Total!!Season
Line 436: Line 248:
 
|Most goals for||330||[[1992–93 OHL season|1992–93]]
  
|Most goals for||330||[[1992–93 OHL season|1992–93]]
 
|- align="center"
  
|- align="center"
−
|Least goals for||198||[[2004–05 OHL season|2004–05]]
 +
| Least goals for||198||[[2004–05 OHL season|2004–05]]
 
|- align="center"
  
|- align="center"
−
|Least goals against||162||1998–99<br>[[2000–01 OHL season|2000–01]]
 +
| Least goals against||162||1998–99<br>[[2000–01 OHL season|2000–01]]
 
|- align="center"
  
|- align="center"
 
|Most goals against||378||[[1990–91 OHL season|1990–91]]
  
|Most goals against||378||[[1990–91 OHL season|1990–91]]
 
|}
  
|}
   
−
{| align=right border="1" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1" bgcolor="#ffffff" style="border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; border-collapse: collapse;"
 +
{| align="right" border="1" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1" bgcolor="#ffffff" style="border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; border-collapse: collapse;"
−
| align="center" bgcolor="#eeeeee" colspan=4 style="border-bottom:1px #aaaaaa solid;" | '''Individual player records for a single season'''
 +
| colspan="4" align="center" bgcolor="#eeeeee" style="border-bottom:1px #aaaaaa solid;" |'''Individual player records for a single season'''
 
|-
  
|-
 
!Statistic!!Player!!Total!!Season
  
!Statistic!!Player!!Total!!Season
Line 464: Line 276:
 
|Most wins (goalie)||[[Rob Zepp]]||36||[[1999–00 OHL season|1999–00]]
  
|Most wins (goalie)||[[Rob Zepp]]||36||[[1999–00 OHL season|1999–00]]
 
|-
  
|-
−
| align="center" colspan=4 style="border-bottom:1px #aaaaaa solid;" | ''Goalies = minimum 1500 minutes played''
 +
| colspan="4" align="center" style="border-bottom:1px #aaaaaa solid;" |''Goalies = minimum 1500 minutes played''
 
|}
  
|}
 
<br clear="all">
  
<br clear="all">
Line 471: Line 283:
 
====Top scorers in the history of the franchise.====
  
====Top scorers in the history of the franchise.====
   
−
{| border="1" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" class="wikitable"
 +
{| class="wikitable" border="1" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0"
 
|-
  
|-
−
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="30%" | Player
 +
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="30%" |Player
−
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="15%" | Years
 +
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="15%" |Years
 
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="9%" | GP
  
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="9%" | GP
−
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="9%" | G
 +
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="9%" |G
−
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="9%" | A
 +
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="9%" |A
−
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="9%" | Pts
 +
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="9%" |Pts
−
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="9%" | PIM
 +
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="9%" |PIM
 
|-
  
|-
−
| [[Pat Peake]] || 1990–92 || 162 || 138 || 181 || 319 || 162
 +
|[[Pat Peake]]||1990–92||162||138||181||319||162
 
|-
  
|-
−
| [[Bob Wren]] || 1991–94 || 182 || 115 || 188 || 303 || 220
 +
|[[Bob Wren]]||1991–94||182||115||188||303||220
 
|-
  
|-
−
| [[Chris Terry (ice hockey)|Chris Terry]] || 2005–09 || 253 || 114 || 175 || 289 || 352
 +
|[[Chris Terry (ice hockey)|Chris Terry]]||2005–09||253||114||175||289||352
 
|-
  
|-
−
| [[Todd Harvey]] || 1991–95 || 173 || 113 || 157 || 270 || 310
+
|[[Todd Harvey]]||1991–95||173||113||157||270||310
 
|-
  
|-
−
| [[Kevin Brown (ice hockey)|Kevin Brown]] || 1992–94 || 113 || 102 || 167 || 269 || 161
 +
|[[Kevin Brown (ice hockey)|Kevin Brown]]||1992–94||113||102||167||269||161
 
|-
  
|-
−
| [[Sean Haggerty]] || 1993–96 || 187 || 131 || 132 || 263 || 136
 +
|[[Sean Haggerty]]||1993–96||187||131||132||263||136
 
|-
  
|-
−
| [[John Vigilante]] || 2002–06 || 254 || 93 || 153 || 246 || 107
 +
|[[John Vigilante]]||2002–06||254||93||153||246||107
 
|-
  
|-
−
| [[Harold Druken]] || 1996–99 || 187 || 123 || 120 || 243 || 60
+
|[[Harold Druken]]||1996–99||187||123||120||243|| 60
 
|-
  
|-
−
| [[John Mitchell (ice hockey)|John Mitchell]] || 2001–05 || 258 || 80 || 150 || 230 || 158
+
|[[John Mitchell (ice hockey)|John Mitchell]]||2001–05||258||80||150||230|| 158
 
|-
  
|-
−
| [[Damian Surma]] || 1998–02 || 241 || 105 || 120 || 225 || 286
 +
|[[Damian Surma]]||1998–02||241||105||120||225||286
 
|-
  
|-
 
|}
  
|}
   
 
====Top active scorers====
  
====Top active scorers====
−
{| border="1" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" class="wikitable"
 +
{| class="wikitable" border="1" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0"
 
|-
  
|-
−
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="30%" | Player
 +
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="30%" |Player
−
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="15%" | Years
 +
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="15%" |Years
 
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="9%" | GP
  
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="9%" | GP
−
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="9%" | G
 +
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="9%" |G
−
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="9%" | A
 +
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="9%" |A
−
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="9%" | Pts
 +
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="9%" |Pts
−
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="9%" | PIM
 +
! bgcolor="#DDDDFF" width="9%" |PIM
 
|-
  
|-
−
| [[AJ Jenks]] || 2006– || 249 || 79 || 114 || 193 || 290
 +
| [[AJ Jenks]]||2006–||249||79||114||193||290
 
|-
  
|-
−
| [[Tyler Seguin]] || 2008– || 124 || 69 || 104 || 173 || 82
 +
|[[Tyler Seguin]]||2008–||124||69||104||173||82
 
|-
  
|-
−
| [[Ryan Hayes]] || 2008– || 132 || 52 || 50 || 102 || 124
 +
|[[Ryan Hayes]]||2008–||132||52||50||102||124
 
|-
  
|-
−
| [[Michal Jordan]] || 2007– || 138 || 30 || 67 || 97 || 89
 +
|[[Michal Jordan]]||2007–||138||30||67||97||89
 
|-
  
|-
−
| [[Joe Gaynor]] || 2005– || 279 || 39 || 58 || 97 || 235
 +
|[[Joe Gaynor]]||2005–||279||39||58||97||235
 
|-
  
|-
−
| [[Beau Schmitz]] || 2008– || 134 || 14 || 53 || 67 || 194
 +
|[[Beau Schmitz]]||2008–||134||14||53||67||194
 
|-
  
|-
−
| [[Tyler G. Brown]] || 2007– || 152 || 23 || 43 || 66 || 59
 +
|[[Tyler G. Brown]]||2007–||152||23||43||66||59
 
|-
  
|-
−
| [[Robbie Czarnik]] || 2009– || 43 || 17 || 32 || 49 || 28
 +
|[[Robbie Czarnik]]||2009–||43||17||32||49||28
 
|-
  
|-
−
| [[Leo Jenner]] || 2008– || 250 || 10 || 38 || 48 || 399
 +
|[[Leo Jenner]]||2008–||250||10||38||48||399
 
|-
  
|-
−
| [[RJ Mahalak]] || 2007– || 146 || 13 || 22 || 35 || 162
 +
| [[RJ Mahalak]]||2007–||146||13||22||35||162
 
|}
  
|}
   
Line 539: Line 351:
 
Legend: OTL = Overtime loss, SL = Shootout loss
  
Legend: OTL = Overtime loss, SL = Shootout loss
   
−
{| border="1" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1" bgcolor="#ffffff" style="text-align: center; border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; border-collapse: collapse;"
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center;"
  +
|-
−
|- bgcolor="#ccccff"
 
−
! [[Season (sports)|Season]] || Games || Won || Lost || Tied || OTL || SL || Points || Pct % || Goals<br>For || Goals<br><small>Against</small> || Standing
 +
![[Season (sports)|Season]]||Games||Won|| Lost|| Tied||OTL||SL||Points||Pct %||Goals<br>For||Goals<br>{{small|Against}}||Standing
  +
|-
−
|- align="center"
  
−
||[[1997–98 OHL season|1997–98]]||66||37||22|| 7|| -||-|| 81||0.614||279||223||2nd Western
 +
||[[1997–98 OHL season|1997–98]]||66||37||22||7||-||-||81||0.614||279||223||2nd Western
  +
|-
−
|- align="center"
 
−
||[[1998–99 OHL season|1998–99]]||68||51||13|| 4|| -||-||106||0.779||313||162||'''1st West'''
 +
||[[1998–99 OHL season|1998–99]]||68||51||13||4||-||-||106||0.779||313||162||'''1st West'''
  +
|-
−
|- align="center"
 
−
||[[1999–00 OHL season|1999–00]]||68||45||18|| 4|| 1||-|| 95||0.691||256||172||'''1st West'''
 +
||[[1999–2000 OHL season|1999–2000]]||68||45||18||4||1||-||95||0.691||256||172||'''1st West'''
  +
|-
−
|- align="center"
 
−
||[[2000–01 OHL season|2000–01]]||68||43||15|| 5|| 5||-|| 96||0.669||253||162||'''1st West'''
 +
||[[2000–01 OHL season|2000–01]]||68||43||15||5||5||-||96||0.669||253||162||'''1st West'''
  +
|-
−
|- align="center"
 
−
||[[2001–02 OHL season|2001–02]]||68||39||15||12|| 2||-|| 92||0.662||249||166||'''1st West'''
 +
||[[2001–02 OHL season|2001–02]]||68||39||15||12||2||-||92||0.662||249||166||'''1st West'''
  +
|-
−
|- align="center"
 
−
||[[2002–03 OHL season|2002–03]]||68||43||14|| 9|| 2||-|| 97||0.699||259||174||'''1st West'''
 +
||[[2002–03 OHL season|2002–03]]||68||43||14||9||2||-||97||0.699||259||174||'''1st West'''
  +
|-
−
|- align="center"
 
−
||[[2003–04 OHL season|2003–04]]||68||32||24|| 9|| 3||-|| 76||0.537||220||204||2nd West
 +
||[[2003–04 OHL season|2003–04]]||68||32||24||9||3||-||76||0.537||220||204||2nd West
  +
|-
−
|- align="center"
 
−
||[[2004–05 OHL season|2004–05]]||68||30||29|| 6|| 3||-|| 69||0.507||198||204||2nd West
 +
||[[2004–05 OHL season|2004–05]]||68||30||29||6||3||-||69||0.507||198||204||2nd West
  +
|-
−
|- align="center"
 
−
||[[2005–06 OHL season|2005–06]]||68||35||28||-|| 1|| 4|| 75||0.551||227||224||'''1st West'''
 +
||[[2005–06 OHL season|2005–06]]||68||35||28||-||1||4||75||0.551||227||224||'''1st West'''
  +
|-
−
|- align="center"
  
−
||[[2006–07 OHL season|2006–07]]||68||49||14||-|| 2|| 3||103||0.757||299||173||'''1st West'''
 +
||[[2006–07 OHL season|2006–07]]||68||49||14||-||2||3||103||0.757||299||173||'''1st West'''
  +
|-
−
|- align="center"
  
−
||[[2007–08 OHL season|2007–08]]||68||34||28||-|| 2|| 4|| 74||0.544||228||223||5th West
 +
||[[2007–08 OHL season|2007–08]]||68||34||28||-||2||4||74||0.544||228||223||5th West
  +
|-
−
|- align="center"
  
−
||[[2008–09 OHL season|2008–09]]||68||37||26||-|| 5|| 0|| 79||0.581||224||218||2nd West
 +
||[[2008–09 OHL season|2008–09]]||68||37||26||-||5||0||79||0.581||224||218||2nd West
  +
|-
−
|- align="center"
  
−
||[[2009–10 OHL season|2009–10]]||68||38||27||-|| 1|| 2|| 79||0.581||245||201||2nd West
 +
||[[2009–10 OHL season|2009–10]]||68||38||27||-||1||2||79||0.581||245||201||2nd West
  +
|-
  +
||[[2010–11 OHL season|2010–11]]||68||36||26||-||2||4||78||0.574||249||219||3rd West
  +
|-
  +
||[[2011–12 OHL season|2011–12]]||68||47||18||-||2||1||97||0.713||279||205||'''1st West'''
  +
|-
  +
||[[2012–13 OHL season|2012–13]]||68||42||17||-||5||4||93||0.684||292||202||'''1st West'''
  +
|-
  +
||[[2013–14 OHL season|2013–14]]||68||28||33||-||0||7||63||0.463||187||238||4th West
  +
|-
  +
||[[2014–15 OHL season|2014–15]]||68||23||38||-||5||2||53||0.390||195||255||4th West
 
|}
  
|}
   
Line 573: Line 395:
 
*'''1997–98''' - Defeated [[Sarnia Sting]] 4 games to 1 in division quarter-finals. <br>Defeated [[Belleville Bulls]] 4 games to 2 in quarter-finals. <br>Lost to [[Guelph Storm]] 4 games to 0 in semi-finals.
  
*'''1997–98''' - Defeated [[Sarnia Sting]] 4 games to 1 in division quarter-finals. <br>Defeated [[Belleville Bulls]] 4 games to 2 in quarter-finals. <br>Lost to [[Guelph Storm]] 4 games to 0 in semi-finals.
 
*'''1998–99''' - Defeated [[Windsor Spitfires]] 4 games to 0 in conference quarter-finals. <br>Lost to [[London Knights]] 4 games to 3 in conference semi-finals.
  
*'''1998–99''' - Defeated [[Windsor Spitfires]] 4 games to 0 in conference quarter-finals. <br>Lost to [[London Knights]] 4 games to 3 in conference semi-finals.
−
*'''1999–00''' - Defeated Guelph Storm 4 games to 2 in conference quarter-finals. <br>Defeated Windsor Spitfires 4 games to 1 in conference semi-finals. <br>Defeated [[Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds]] 4 game to 1 in conference finals. <br>Lost to [[Barrie Colts]] 4 games to 3 in finals.
 +
*'''1999–2000''' - Defeated Guelph Storm 4 games to 2 in conference quarter-finals. <br>Defeated Windsor Spitfires 4 games to 1 in conference semi-finals. <br>Defeated [[Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds]] 4 game to 1 in conference finals. <br>Lost to [[Barrie Colts]] 4 games to 3 in finals.
 
*'''2000–01''' - Defeated Sarnia Sting 4 games to 0 in conference quarter-finals. <br>Defeated Windsor Spitfires 4 games to 0 in conference semi-finals. <br>Defeated [[Erie Otters]] 4 game to 1 in conference finals. <br>Lost to [[Ottawa 67's]] 4 games to 2 in finals.
  
*'''2000–01''' - Defeated Sarnia Sting 4 games to 0 in conference quarter-finals. <br>Defeated Windsor Spitfires 4 games to 0 in conference semi-finals. <br>Defeated [[Erie Otters]] 4 game to 1 in conference finals. <br>Lost to [[Ottawa 67's]] 4 games to 2 in finals.
 
*'''2001–02''' - Lost to London Knights 4 games to 2 in conference quarter-finals.
  
*'''2001–02''' - Lost to London Knights 4 games to 2 in conference quarter-finals.
Line 583: Line 405:
 
*'''2007–08''' - Lost to Kitchener Rangers 4 games to 0 in conference quarter-finals.
  
*'''2007–08''' - Lost to Kitchener Rangers 4 games to 0 in conference quarter-finals.
 
*'''2008–09''' - Defeated Sarnia Sting 4 games to 1 in conference quarter-finals. <br>Lost to Windsor Spitfires 4 games to 2 in conference semi-finals.
  
*'''2008–09''' - Defeated Sarnia Sting 4 games to 1 in conference quarter-finals. <br>Lost to Windsor Spitfires 4 games to 2 in conference semi-finals.
−
*'''2009-10''' - Defeated Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds 4 games to 1 in conference quarter-finals. <br>Lost to Windsor Spitfires 4 games to 0 in conference semi-finals.
 +
*'''2009–10''' - Defeated Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds 4 games to 1 in conference quarter-finals. <br>Lost to Windsor Spitfires 4 games to 0 in conference semi-finals.
  +
*'''2010–11''' - Defeated Kitchener Rangers 4 games to 3 in conference quarter-finals. <br>Lost to Owen Sound Attack 4 games to 0 in conference semi-finals.
  +
*'''2011–12''' - Defeated Guelph Storm 4 games to 2 in conference quarter-finals. <br>Lost to Kitchener Rangers 4 games to 3 in conference semi-finals.
  +
*'''2012–13''' - Defeated Sarnia Sting 4 games to 0 in conference quarter-finals. <br>Defeated Owen Sound Attack 4 games to 2 in conference semi-finals. <br>Lost to London Knights 4 games to 1 in conference finals.
  +
*'''2013–14''' - Lost to Guelph Storm 4 games to 1 in conference quarter-finals.
  +
*'''2014–15''' - Out of playoffs.
   
 
==Uniforms and logos==
  
==Uniforms and logos==
Line 595: Line 422:
 
The Whalers white Jersey has the whaler logo in the center with 3 even stripes on the sleeves and bottom of the jersey. The stripes are evenly spaced with two navy outer lines and one green inner line.
  
The Whalers white Jersey has the whaler logo in the center with 3 even stripes on the sleeves and bottom of the jersey. The stripes are evenly spaced with two navy outer lines and one green inner line.
   
−
The Whalers blue Jersey has the whaler logo in the center with a white space and green space going down the sleeves
 +
The Whalers blue Jersey has the whaler logo in the center with a white space and green space going down the sleeves.
   
 
Anthony Harrison was the original creator for the Plymouth Whalers logo. A three-dimensional model of the logo was displayed in the Harford Whalers Team Store in 1996, this after the model was used in a presentation to the NHL in a third jersey effort. When the pitch failed, the logo was passed to the Plymouth Whalers.
  
Anthony Harrison was the original creator for the Plymouth Whalers logo. A three-dimensional model of the logo was displayed in the Harford Whalers Team Store in 1996, this after the model was used in a presentation to the NHL in a third jersey effort. When the pitch failed, the logo was passed to the Plymouth Whalers.
Line 601: Line 428:
 
==Mascot==
  
==Mascot==
 
[[File:The Mascot Shooter.jpg|thumb|left|180px|Shooter the Whale]]
  
[[File:The Mascot Shooter.jpg|thumb|left|180px|Shooter the Whale]]
−
The Plymouth Whalers have a mascot named Shooter<ref>http://plymouthwhalers.com/shooter.html</ref>. His first game appearance was on December 11, 2003 against the [[Peterborough Petes]].
 +
The Plymouth Whalers had a mascot named Shooter.<ref>http://plymouthwhalers.com/shooter.html</ref> His first game appearance was on December 11, 2003 against the [[Peterborough Petes]].
−  
−
His Bio states that he can be found throughout the community as well as at all home games spreading Whalers pride or trying to put a hex on the opponent's goaltender.
  
−
Shooter loves meeting new fans, signing autographs, and getting photos. His favorite meals are wolves from Sudbury, greyhounds from Sault Ste. Marie, and ice dogs from Niagara.
  
   
 
==Arena==
  
==Arena==
 
[[Image:Compuware Sports Arena interior.jpg|thumb|right|180px|Interior of Compuware Arena]]
  
[[Image:Compuware Sports Arena interior.jpg|thumb|right|180px|Interior of Compuware Arena]]
−
[[Peter Karmanos]] arranged to build the Whalers a new home in [[Plymouth Township, Michigan]] as soon as the 1995–96 season ended. The [[Compuware Arena]] was constructed in 6 months time, ready for the 1996–97 season. The arena is located at 14900 Beck Rd. in Plymouth with a [[seating capacity]] of 3,807.
 +
[[Peter Karmanos]] arranged to build the Whalers a new home in [[Plymouth Township, Michigan]] as soon as the 1995–96 season ended. The [[Compuware Arena]] was constructed in six months' time, ready for the 1996–97 season, with a [[seating capacity]] of 3,807. In addition to the NHL-sized rink, there is an Olympic sized rink also in the building.
−  
−
In addition to the NHL-sized rink, there is an Olympic sized rink also in the building. Compuware Arena is home to not only the Whalers, but also the Compuware Ambassadors, a series of major midget teams and lower, according to age.
  
−
*[http://www.compuwarearena.com/ Compuware Arena] Official web site
  
−
*[http://www.compuwareambassadors.com/ Compuware Ambassadors] Official web site
  
−
*[http://www.ohlarenaguide.com/whalers.htm Compuware Arena] The OHL Arena & Travel Guide
  
−  
−
== References ==
  
   
  +
==References==
 
{{reflist}}
  
{{reflist}}
−  
−
==External links==
  
−
*[http://www.plymouthwhalers.com/ Plymouth Whalers] Official web site
  
−
*[http://www.whalersboosters.com/ Plymouth Whalers Booster Club] Official web site
  
−
*[http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/ Ontario Hockey League] Official web site
  
−
*[http://www.chl.ca/ Canadian Hockey League] Official web site
  
   
 
{{OHL}}
  
{{OHL}}
Line 632: Line 444:
 
[[Category:Plymouth Whalers]]
  
[[Category:Plymouth Whalers]]
 
[[Category:Established in 1990]]
  
[[Category:Established in 1990]]
  +
[[Category:Disestablished in 2015]]

Latest revision as of 23:15, 29 October 2023

Plymouth Whalers
Plymouthwhalers
City Plymouth, Michigan
League Ontario Hockey League
Conference Western
Division West
Operated 1997–2015
Home arena Compuware Arena
Franchise history
1990–1992 Detroit Compuware Ambassadors
1992–1995 Detroit Junior Red Wings
1995–1997 Detroit Whalers
1997–2015 Plymouth Whalers
2015–present Flint Firebirds

The Plymouth Whalers were a major junior ice hockey team in the Ontario Hockey League. They played out of Compuware Arena in Plymouth, Michigan, USA, a suburb of Detroit until 2015 when they were relocated to Flint, Michigan.

History

The Whalers can trace their roots back to the 1990–91 Detroit Compuware Ambassadors as an expansion team in the OHL. Since then the franchise has also been called the Detroit Junior Red Wings and the Detroit Whalers. In 1997 they were officially renamed the "Plymouth Whalers" after the local municipality gave generous tax breaks to the team and venue. The franchise was owned until 2015 by Peter Karmanos, who also owned the NHL's Carolina Hurricanes (formerly the Hartford Whalers, from which the OHL team's name was taken).

Plymouth-Saginaw Faceoff

The Plymouth Whalers and Saginaw Spirit line up for a faceoff at the Compuware Arena.

Whalers 10th Anniversary Logo

Whalers 10th Anniversary Logo

Plymouth is one of only two teams to win 5 consecutive division titles (West division from 1999–2003, the other team being the Ottawa 67's (East division from 1996–2000). Plymouth has made the playoffs 17 consecutive seasons, since the 1991–92 season. The Whalers reached the OHL finals two consecutive seasons in 1999–2000, and 2000–01, losing to the Barrie Colts and Ottawa 67's. These seasons included future NHLers David Legwand, Justin Williams, Robert Esche, and Stephen Weiss.

Celebrating their 10th Anniversary playing at the Compuware Arena during the 2005–06 season, all current Whalers players had been brought into the system by head coach and general manager Mike Vellucci. This created the build-up for the next year. Headed by overage captain John Vigilante, the team's rookies in 2003 and 2004 came to fruition in James Neal, Dan Collins, and Tommy Sestito. Vellucci acquired the Belleville Bulls' leading scorer Evan Brophey and the Toronto St. Michael's Majors goaltender Justin Peters, who had an extensive resume. On the last game of the season, the Whalers played the Saginaw Spirit, with the division title on the line, in what has been proven to be one of the most exciting OHL games in recent history. With the Whalers' 2–0 lead going into the third period, the Spirit fought back and managed the tying goal just before time expired. However, Brophey scored in overtime to clinch the Whalers' 9th division title.

During the 2006–07 season, rookie goaltenders Jeremy Smith and Michal Neuvirth, combined for the lowest goals against average in the OHL, with only 173 goals against in total. The Whalers had a number of high prospects signed or drafted by NHL teams, including former Wayne Gretzky 99 Award winner Daniel Ryder, who was acquired, with him already having been signed with the Calgary Flames. After a very inconsistent start, the team improved to fall short of the London Knights by one point for the Hamilton Spectator Trophy. During the second half of the season and through the playoffs, the Whalers featured a 23-game winning streak at home, lasting three and a half months, falling at Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals to London. The Whalers, although seeded #2, easily won the Wayne Gretzky Trophy as Western Conference playoff champion, sweeping #7 Guelph, and winning in 5 against both #3 Kitchener and #1 London. In the final, the Whalers defeated the Sudbury Wolves in six games to win the J. Ross Robertson Cup, thus earning the right to represent the OHL in the 2007 Memorial Cup.

In the Memorial Cup, the team suffered a rough start, losing to the Vancouver Giants 4–3 in overtime on May 18, and again to the Medicine Hat Tigers 4–1 on May 21. Their fortunes would change, however, on May 22, when they would defeat the Lewiston Maineiacs 2–1 in overtime, thus putting them in the tiebreaker game on May 24, in which they would defeat Lewiston again, 5–1, eliminating the Maineiacs from the Memorial Cup and advancing to the semifinal. However, on May 25, the Whalers would lose again to the Vancouver Giants in the semifinal round, this time in dramatic fashion by a score of 8–1. This way, the Whalers finished the 2007 Memorial Cup in third place.[1]

During the 2007–08 season, the Whalers dealt the goaltender that led them to their 2007 OHL Championship, Michal Neuvirth, early to make room for Jeremy Smith to start. Neuvirth was among 12 players that left/were traded from that team, leaving the team looking to a number of young players for leadership. Chris Terry led the team in scoring and was helped by overage captain Andrew Fournier and up-and-comer AJ Jenks. In mid-December 2007, President and GM Mike Vellucci left his head coaching position for Greg Stefan. A late season injury to overage defenseman Wes Cunningham hampered the flow of the team, leading to an early playoff exit at the hands of the eventual OHL champions, the Kitchener Rangers.

Early in the 2008–09 season, Stefan was recalled to the Hurricanes, where Mike Vellucci came back to fill the head coaching role. Injuries and inconsistency plagued the team, as they fell to dead last in the league. After the coaching change, as well as key trades, including a short lived experiment with Cory McGillis, then-leading scorer Matt Caria from the Greyhounds, Scott Fletcher from the Ice Dogs, and the return from AHL-playing Brett Bellemore, the team saw a turn around by Christmas putting them back into the middle of the pack. At the deadline, as a result of Bellemore's return and the emergence of Matt Hackett as the new starting goaltender, Patrick Lee and Jeremy Smith were traded to Niagara for draft picks.

The 2009–10 season saw the Whalers led by league MVP Tyler Seguin along with other top scorers such as Myles McCauley.

On December 29, 2013, the Whalers and the London Knights broke the newly set Canadian Hockey League attendance record. The Knights and Whalers, playing in the second OHL game of the evening outdoors at Comerica Park in Detroit, Michigan (also the second outdoor game ever played in the OHL), played in front of 26,384 spectators. The Whalers won the game 2–1 in a shootout.[2]

On January 14, 2015, owner Peter Karmanos announced that the Whalers would be relocated to Flint, Michigan after a sale of the team to the owner of Flint's Perani Arena and Event Center for the 2015–16 season. The OHL approved the sale, and the relocated franchise is named the Flint Firebirds. On March 21, the Plymouth Whalers played their final game in franchise history losing 5–1 to the Erie Otters.[3][4]

Championships

The Plymouth Whalers have won eight divisional titles, five of them consecutively. Plymouth has also won three Hamilton Spectator trophies and reached the OHL Championship Finals three times, winning during the 2006–07 season.

J. Ross Robertson Cup
OHL Champion

  • 1999–2000 Finalists vs. Barrie Colts
  • 2000–01 Finalists vs. Ottawa 67's
  • 2006–07 Champions vs. Sudbury Wolves


Wayne Gretzky Trophy
Western Conference Playoff Champion

  • 1999–2000, 2000–01 and 2006–07

Hamilton Spectator Trophy
Season Champion

  • 1998–99 51 wins, 4 ties, 106 pts
  • 1999–2000 45 wins, 4 ties, 1 OTL, 95 pts
  • 2001–02 39 wins, 12 ties, 2 OTL, 92 pts

Bumbacco Trophy
West Division Champion

  • 1998–99, 1999–2000, 2000–01, 2001–02, 2002–03, 2005–06, 2006–07, 2011–12, 2012-13

Coaches

  • 1995–01 Peter DeBoer (6 seasons) - DeBoer was promoted from assistant coach to become coach & general manager of the Whalers organization in 1995. DeBoer was twice voted the OHL Coach of the Year, winning the Matt Leyden Trophy in the 1998–99 and 1999–2000 seasons. DeBoer left to coach the Kitchener Rangers.
  • mid-2007-mid-2008 Greg Stefan (2 seasons) - Stefan began his coaching career in 1993 with the Detroit Junior Red Wings. He served as an assistant coach in Plymouth until 1998, and re-joined the Whalers as director of player development and assistant coach in 2003. Named head coach during the 2007–08 season when Vellucci moved to focus on the front office, Stefan left the Whalers in the middle of the 2008–09 season to take a scouting job with the Carolina Hurricanes.
  • 2001-mid-2007; mid-2008–pres Mike Vellucci (8th season) - Vellucci was promoted to President of the Plymouth Whalers in 2000 and was appointed the team's general manager and head coach in 2001. In 2007, Vellucci won the Matt Leyden Trophy as Ontario Hockey League Coach of the Year - the first American ever to win the award. Vellucci stepped down in the middle of the 2007–08 season to focus on his GM position. He returned as head coach of the club in the middle of the 2008–09 season with Stefan's moving to the Hurricanes.

Rivals

  • Windsor Spitfires: proximity, considering the 30 mile distance between the two teams' arenas, has made this the Whalers' largest rivalry.
  • Saginaw Spirit: The Spirit are another major rival of the Whalers, due to both proximity and the fact that Saginaw is the other Michigan-based OHL team, making games between the two a battle for state bragging rights. Also, the Whalers traded to get the Spirit's captain on a run in the playoffs in 2003, and beat the Spirit for the division title in overtime on the last game of the season in 2006.
  • London Knights: bad blood and reputation, considering the nature of the Whalers to be quick to start a fight to change momentum, and the propensity of the Knights to resort to questionable tactics when skill is thrown out for grit/goonery. Many games end up with multiple fights. The Whalers opened the door for the modern Knights' dominance by losing to them in the first round of the 2002 playoffs, despite Plymouth being ranked #1 and London being seeded #8. A line brawl involving some Knight players coming off of the bench to fight Whalers while a goaltender fight at center ice in 2005 was a memorable start, as well as the Whalers being one of only a few teams to defeat the Knights in that season. A clean, open-ice hit by Jared Boll on Robbie Drummond started another series of fights, as well as a hit-from-behind by Tom Sestito on Patrick Kane.

The last few years, the Whalers, Spitfires, and Knights have been league leaders in fighting majors.[5]

Players

Retired numbers

14 - Pat Peake is the only number retired by the Whalers organization. Peake (who played in the Junior Red Wings era) was a two-season captain, the first MVP for the franchise in 1992–93, as well as Canadian Hockey League player of the year, and OHL Most Sportsmanlike player of the year. He has the most career points in franchise history.

Vig

Former captain John Vigilante.

Team captains

Award winners

Notable players

First round NHL Entry Draft picks

Players who were drafted in the first round of the NHL Entry Draft while playing for the Whalers franchise.

Second round NHL Entry Draft picks

Players who were drafted in the second round of the NHL Entry Draft while playing for the Whalers franchise.

NHL alumni

List of Plymouth Whalers alumni who have played in the National Hockey League.

Franchise records

A complete list of team records can be found here.

Team records for a single season
Statistic Total Season
Most points 106 1998–99
Most wins 51 1998–99
Most goals for 330 1992–93
Least goals for 198 2004–05
Least goals against 162 1998–99
2000–01
Most goals against 378 1990–91
Individual player records for a single season
Statistic Player Total Season
Most goals Chad LaRose 61 2002–03
Most assists Kevin Brown 91 1992–93
Most points Bob Wren 145 1992–93
Most points, rookie David Legwand 105 1997–98
Most points, defenseman Bill McCauley 102 1994–95
Most PIM David Benn 305 1991–92
Best GAA (goalie) Robert Holsinger 2.08 1998–99
Most wins (goalie) Rob Zepp 36 1999–00
Goalies = minimum 1500 minutes played


Top scorers

Top scorers in the history of the franchise.

Player Years GP G A Pts PIM
Pat Peake 1990–92 162 138 181 319 162
Bob Wren 1991–94 182 115 188 303 220
Chris Terry 2005–09 253 114 175 289 352
Todd Harvey 1991–95 173 113 157 270 310
Kevin Brown 1992–94 113 102 167 269 161
Sean Haggerty 1993–96 187 131 132 263 136
John Vigilante 2002–06 254 93 153 246 107
Harold Druken 1996–99 187 123 120 243 60
John Mitchell 2001–05 258 80 150 230 158
Damian Surma 1998–02 241 105 120 225 286

Top active scorers

Player Years GP G A Pts PIM
AJ Jenks 2006– 249 79 114 193 290
Tyler Seguin 2008– 124 69 104 173 82
Ryan Hayes 2008– 132 52 50 102 124
Michal Jordan 2007– 138 30 67 97 89
Joe Gaynor 2005– 279 39 58 97 235
Beau Schmitz 2008– 134 14 53 67 194
Tyler G. Brown 2007– 152 23 43 66 59
Robbie Czarnik 2009– 43 17 32 49 28
Leo Jenner 2008– 250 10 38 48 399
RJ Mahalak 2007– 146 13 22 35 162

Yearly results

Regular season

Legend: OTL = Overtime loss, SL = Shootout loss

Season Games Won Lost Tied OTL SL Points Pct % Goals
For		 Goals
Against		 Standing
1997–98 66 37 22 7 - - 81 0.614 279 223 2nd Western
1998–99 68 51 13 4 - - 106 0.779 313 162 1st West
1999–2000 68 45 18 4 1 - 95 0.691 256 172 1st West
2000–01 68 43 15 5 5 - 96 0.669 253 162 1st West
2001–02 68 39 15 12 2 - 92 0.662 249 166 1st West
2002–03 68 43 14 9 2 - 97 0.699 259 174 1st West
2003–04 68 32 24 9 3 - 76 0.537 220 204 2nd West
2004–05 68 30 29 6 3 - 69 0.507 198 204 2nd West
2005–06 68 35 28 - 1 4 75 0.551 227 224 1st West
2006–07 68 49 14 - 2 3 103 0.757 299 173 1st West
2007–08 68 34 28 - 2 4 74 0.544 228 223 5th West
2008–09 68 37 26 - 5 0 79 0.581 224 218 2nd West
2009–10 68 38 27 - 1 2 79 0.581 245 201 2nd West
2010–11 68 36 26 - 2 4 78 0.574 249 219 3rd West
2011–12 68 47 18 - 2 1 97 0.713 279 205 1st West
2012–13 68 42 17 - 5 4 93 0.684 292 202 1st West
2013–14 68 28 33 - 0 7 63 0.463 187 238 4th West
2014–15 68 23 38 - 5 2 53 0.390 195 255 4th West

Playoffs

  • 1997–98 - Defeated Sarnia Sting 4 games to 1 in division quarter-finals.
    Defeated Belleville Bulls 4 games to 2 in quarter-finals.
    Lost to Guelph Storm 4 games to 0 in semi-finals.
  • 1998–99 - Defeated Windsor Spitfires 4 games to 0 in conference quarter-finals.
    Lost to London Knights 4 games to 3 in conference semi-finals.
  • 1999–2000 - Defeated Guelph Storm 4 games to 2 in conference quarter-finals.
    Defeated Windsor Spitfires 4 games to 1 in conference semi-finals.
    Defeated Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds 4 game to 1 in conference finals.
    Lost to Barrie Colts 4 games to 3 in finals.
  • 2000–01 - Defeated Sarnia Sting 4 games to 0 in conference quarter-finals.
    Defeated Windsor Spitfires 4 games to 0 in conference semi-finals.
    Defeated Erie Otters 4 game to 1 in conference finals.
    Lost to Ottawa 67's 4 games to 2 in finals.
  • 2001–02 - Lost to London Knights 4 games to 2 in conference quarter-finals.
  • 2002–03 - Defeated Owen Sound Attack 4 games to 0 in conference quarter-finals.
    Defeated London Knights 4 games to 3 in conference semi-finals.
    Lost to Kitchener Rangers 4 games to 3 in conference finals.
  • 2003–04 - Defeated Kitchener Rangers 4 games to 1 in conference quarter-finals.
    Lost to Guelph Storm 4 games to 0 in conference semi-finals.
  • 2004–05 - Lost to Owen Sound Attack 4 games to 0 in conference quarter-finals.
  • 2005–06 - Defeated Windsor Spitfires 4 games to 3 in conference quarter-finals.
    Lost to Guelph Storm 4 games to 2 in conference semi-finals
  • 2006–07 - Defeated Guelph Storm 4 games to 0 in conference quarter-finals.
    Defeated Kitchener Rangers 4 games to 1 in conference semi-finals.
    Defeated London Knights 4 games to 1 in conference finals.
    Defeated Sudbury Wolves 4 games to 2 in finals. OHL CHAMPIONS
    Finished tied for third place in Memorial Cup round-robin.
    Defeated Lewiston Maineiacs in tiebreaker round.
    Lost to Vancouver Giants in semi-finals.
  • 2007–08 - Lost to Kitchener Rangers 4 games to 0 in conference quarter-finals.
  • 2008–09 - Defeated Sarnia Sting 4 games to 1 in conference quarter-finals.
    Lost to Windsor Spitfires 4 games to 2 in conference semi-finals.
  • 2009–10 - Defeated Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds 4 games to 1 in conference quarter-finals.
    Lost to Windsor Spitfires 4 games to 0 in conference semi-finals.
  • 2010–11 - Defeated Kitchener Rangers 4 games to 3 in conference quarter-finals.
    Lost to Owen Sound Attack 4 games to 0 in conference semi-finals.
  • 2011–12 - Defeated Guelph Storm 4 games to 2 in conference quarter-finals.
    Lost to Kitchener Rangers 4 games to 3 in conference semi-finals.
  • 2012–13 - Defeated Sarnia Sting 4 games to 0 in conference quarter-finals.
    Defeated Owen Sound Attack 4 games to 2 in conference semi-finals.
    Lost to London Knights 4 games to 1 in conference finals.
  • 2013–14 - Lost to Guelph Storm 4 games to 1 in conference quarter-finals.
  • 2014–15 - Out of playoffs.

Uniforms and logos

ThumbnailCAF7FLO2

Whalers Blue Jersey

Whalers White Jersey

Whalers White Reebok EDGE Jersey

In 2009 all Canadian Hockey League teams came out with new Reebok EDGE Jerseys [6]

The Plymouth Whaler logo features an angry hockey stick-wielding whale, blowing a puck and spout of water out its blow hole. The name Whalers is superimposed on the image surround by a circle of green and blue with waves in the background.

The Whalers white Jersey has the whaler logo in the center with 3 even stripes on the sleeves and bottom of the jersey. The stripes are evenly spaced with two navy outer lines and one green inner line.

The Whalers blue Jersey has the whaler logo in the center with a white space and green space going down the sleeves.

Anthony Harrison was the original creator for the Plymouth Whalers logo. A three-dimensional model of the logo was displayed in the Harford Whalers Team Store in 1996, this after the model was used in a presentation to the NHL in a third jersey effort. When the pitch failed, the logo was passed to the Plymouth Whalers.

Mascot

The Mascot Shooter

Shooter the Whale

The Plymouth Whalers had a mascot named Shooter.[7] His first game appearance was on December 11, 2003 against the Peterborough Petes.

Arena

Compuware Sports Arena interior

Interior of Compuware Arena

Peter Karmanos arranged to build the Whalers a new home in Plymouth Township, Michigan as soon as the 1995–96 season ended. The Compuware Arena was constructed in six months' time, ready for the 1996–97 season, with a seating capacity of 3,807. In addition to the NHL-sized rink, there is an Olympic sized rink also in the building.

References

  1. ↑ "Memorial Cup - History." Canadian Hockey League Network website, Archived copy.. Accessed on March 20, 2010.
  2. ↑ Spits top Spirit 6-5 at Comerica Park | Windsor Star.
  3. ↑ McMann, Aaron (February 2, 2015). It's official: Ontario Hockey League approves Plymouth Whalers' move to Flint. MLive.com. The Flint Journal.
  4. ↑ McMann, Aaron (March 16, 2015). 'Flint Firebirds' unveiled as name for Flint's new OHL team. MLive.com. The Flint Journal.
  5. ↑ http://www.dropyourgloves.com/Fights/LeagueFights.aspx?League=9
  6. ↑ http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/chl-and-reebok-hockey-launch-new-edge-uniform-system-p137647
  7. ↑ http://plymouthwhalers.com/shooter.html
Ontario Hockey League
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East Division Hamilton Bulldogs · Kingston Frontenacs · Oshawa Generals · Ottawa 67's · Peterborough Petes Midwest Division Erie Otters · Guelph Storm · Kitchener Rangers · London Knights · Owen Sound Attack
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