FIVE PLAYERS ASSIGNED TO ROCKFORD

Forward Jake Dowell was one of five assigned to Rockford by the Chicago Blackhawks.
09/30/2009 4:04 PM - Rockford, Ill.- Chicago Blackhawks General Manager Stan Bowman announced on Wednesday that the National Hockey League club has assigned forwards Bryan Bickell, Evan Brophey, Jake Dowell, Rob Klinkhammer and Jack Skille to the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League.

Bickell, 23, has spent the last two seasons in Rockford. The Blackhawks’ second round draft pick (#41 overall) in 2004 has tallied 25 goals and 28 assists during 113 contests with the IceHogs. He has also appeared in seven career games with the Blackhawks, notching two goals.

Brophey skated in 79 games with the IceHogs last season, the most of any forward, and was named the team’s most-improved player. The third-year pro has played in 153 professional games, all with the IceHogs. He has registered 20 career goals and 38 assists.

Dowell, an Eau Claire, Wis. Native, has appeared in 124 games over the past two seasons with the IceHogs. The former Wisconsin Badger has scored 37 points (13g-24a) with Rockford. He has also skated in 20 games with the Blackhawks during the past two seasons, netting two goals and an assist.

Klinkhammer, 23, completed his first season with the IceHogs and second in the AHL in 2008-09. He registered 15 goals and 18 assists during 76 games last season. He was also awarded the IceHogs Unsung Hero for the 2008-09 campaign.

The Blackhawks’ first round draft pick in 2005, Skille spent the majority of the 2008-09 campaign with the IceHogs. In 58 games, the Madison, Wis. native tallied 45 points (20g-25a). He also notched a goal in eight games with the Blackhawks during the 2008-09 season.

The IceHogs roster now stands at 30 active players, which includes 19 forwards, nine defensemen and two goalies.

Next Home Game: Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. After five-straight road tilts to open the 2009-10 regular season the IceHogs return home to face the Wolves. The first 5,000 fans to the game will pick up an IceHogs wall calendar from Maverick Media and 23 WIFR.

COME FOR THE HOCKEY STAY FOR THE LIVE MUSIC

Save up to $10 off of the gate price for an IceHogs game and the Groove Walk.
09/30/2009 1:42 PM - Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs and On The Waterfront, Inc. are teaming up to offer IceHogs and Fall Groove Walk tickets for just $15.

Head to downtown Rockford for the IceHogs’ Opening Weekend game on Saturday, Oct. 17 against Peoria at the Rockford MetroCentre and then stay for the live local music at 14 downtown bars. The puck drops at 7:05 p.m. and the music goes until 1 a.m.

This will be the first year of the Fall Groove Walk, a music walk through downtown Rockford held now twice a year that features a variety of genres including country, blues, rock, latino, classic rock, pop and R&B.

The IceHogs kick off the 2009-10 season with a big Opening Weekend pitting the Hogs against two West Division rivals. The fireworks get underway with the Chicago Wolves at the MetroCentre at 7:05 p.m. on Oct. 16 and conclude with the game against Peoria on Oct. 17.

The special combined IceHogs Upper Endzone/Groove Walk ticket will be on sale at the MetroCentre Box office, Hogs Headquarters at Cherryvale Mall, on-line at metrocentre.com or by calling (815) 968-5222.

Next Home Game: Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. After five-straight road tilts to open the 2009-10 regular season the IceHogs return home to face the Wolves. The first 5,000 fans to the game will pick up an IceHogs wall calendar from Maverick Media and 23 WIFR.

GOALIE PALMER ASSIGNED TO TEXAS (CHL)

Goalie Joe Palmer was reassigned to the Texas Brahmas of the Central Hockey League on Tuesday.
09/29/2009 3:31 PM - Rockford, Ill.- Chicago Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliations Mark Bernard announced on Tuesday that the Rockford IceHogs, members of the American Hockey League, have assigned goalie Joe Palmer to the Texas Brahmas of the Central Hockey League.

Coming into his first professional season, Palmer appeared in one preseason game with Rockford, stopping 20 shots en route to a 4-0 shutout of the Chicago Wolves. He skated in three games in 2008-09 with the Ohio State University, finishing 0-2-1 with a 5.40 goals against average.

“I feel very strongly that it is important for Joe to play as many games as possible this year and the opportunity for him to play for Texas allows this,” Bernard said. “We have three young goaltenders that we have to get into games and after a very frustrating season last year with Ohio State, it is imperative that Joe go to the location that will give him playing time.”

Texas is the defending 2009 President’s Cup winners as CHL postseason champions and are slated to play their first preseason game on Oct. 10. Former IceHogs (UHL) Goaltender Ronnie Vogel is entering his second year as an assistant coach for the Brahmas.

It is the first time in the three years that Rockford has been a member of the AHL that the team has assigned a player to a non-affiliate.

Next Regular Season Home Game: Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. After five-straight road tilts to open the 2009-10 regular season the IceHogs return home to face the Wolves. The first 5,000 fans to the game will pick up an IceHogs wall calendar from Maverick Media and 23 WIFR.

WELCOME TO THE NEW ICEHOGS.COM

A new season brings a new look to icehogs.com. All of the site's most popular features have stayed the same, but might be in a different place. Check out some time to go through some of our newest features:

Hogs TV: The Media Center has been moved and expanded with a larger screen and more managable navigation. That means more and easier to find videos.

Stats on the front page: Our team leaders and division standings have moved to the front page.

Upcoming games: We added a "next five games" section to the front page to help you plan ahead.

Navigation: The main menu has moved from the right side to a drop down style across the top.

Wider pages: The inside pages are wider and easier to read, allowing us to put more information closer to the top of the page.

Next Regular Season Home Game: Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. After five-straight road tilts to open the 2009-10 regular season the IceHogs return home to face the Wolves. The first 5,000 fans to the game will pick up an IceHogs wall calendar from Maverick Media and 23 WIFR.

ROCKFORD CLOSES OUT PRESEASON WITH 5-1 WIN

The IceHogs outscored their opponents 13-3 in three preseason games in 2009. (photo by Greg Hamil)

IceHogs finish preseason 3-0-0-0

Rockford, Ill.- A short preseason schedule came to an end for the Rockford IceHogs on Saturday night. The IceHogs completed the exhibition slate a perfect 3-0-0-0 after a 5-1 win over the Peoria Rivermen at the Rockford MetroCentre.

Nathan Davis and Bracken Kearns led the way for Rockford, each tallying a pair of goals while goalie Joe Fallon turned away 30 Rivermen shots. In three exhibition games the IceHogs outscored the opposition 13-3.

"We’re not going to get outworked and we have a lot of smart guys,” said second-year winger Pete MacArthur. “We’re not the oldest group but we have some experience and everyone is 'all for one' in here. Nobody’s for themselves. It’s all for the team.”

Maxime Tanguay scored Rockford's first goal at 7:00 in the first after almost six minutes of power play time thanks to a Peoria penalty followed by another double minor. Joe Charlebois and Bryan Ewing were credited with the assists.

Davis then found the net off of a feed from MacArthur at 18:50 in the first. Dave Phillips also got a helper. Later in the frame Kearns piled on when Derek Nesbitt dished to him in front of the net at 19:17 to make the score 3-0, his first of the night.

In the second period, MacArthur again found Davis in front of the net at 13:34 on the power play with Akim Aliu also helping. Then Kearns lit the lamp again on a wrap-around open net at 14:44. Nesbitt and Phillips were credited with assists. The goal was Kearns third of the preseason, leading all IceHogs skaters.

“It gives you an idea what type of team we’re going to be,” said MacArthur. “You can’t really distinguish between the first and the fourth line. Everyone has skill, everyone works hard and everyone is smart.

"We’ll have a good week of practice and hopefully get off to a good start in a week in Peoria."

The Rivermen finally broke the shutout when Brendan Bell put the puck past Fallon at 4:49 in the third. Julian Talbot and Chris Porter had the assists.

Hannu Toivonen made 17 saves on 20 shots faced for Peoria after playing 249:29. Danny Battochio turned away 12 of 14 shots. Rockford finished the night 2-for-8 on the power play while holding the Rivermen off the board on five man-advantage opportunities.

Next Regular Season Home Game: Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. After five-straight road tilts to open the 2009-10 regular season the IceHogs return home to face the Wolves. The first 5,000 fans to the game will pick up an IceHogs wall calendar from Maverick Media and 23 WIFR.

HOGS SCORE FOUR STRAIGHT, WIN 4-2 IN PEORIA

Hogs now 4-1-0-0 in preseason play against Peoria

Peoria, Ill.– It looked like it might be a bad night for the Rockford IceHogs after giving up two goals in the first six minutes of their preseason game Friday against the Peoria Rivermen, but the Hogs rallied with to take the game 4-2.

Peoria's Adam Cracknell found the back of the net from assists by Lars Eller and Chris Morehouse just 42 seconds into the game. Then Jason Ryznar put the puck past rookie goalie Alec Richards at 5:25 with assists from Danny Richmond and Jack Combs to double Peoria's lead.

But then the IceHogs settled down in front of Richards.

Rockford's Bracken Kearns shot one into the cage at 7:11 with a helper from Derek Nesbitt to make the score 2-1 after one.

In the second frame, Justin Hodgman tipped in a shot from the point by Simon Danis-Pepin at 19:32 to even the score at two. Bryan Ewing also had an assist.

And then in the third period, Akim Aliu capped the comeback off when he beat Hannu Toivonen between the legs off of a solid pass from Nathan Davis at 15:20. Nesbitt added an empty-net goal at 19:09 assisted by Mark Cullen.

Toivonen had 36 saves in the game, while Richards finished with 28 saves. The Hogs were 0-for-4 on the power play, while holding Peoria 0-for-3 on the advantage.

Next Regular Season Home Game: Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. After five-straight road tilts to open the 2009-10 regular season the IceHogs return home to face the Wolves. The first 5,000 fans to the game will pick up an IceHogs wall calendar from Maverick Media and 23 WIFR.

REMINDER: SEASON TICKET PICK UP PARTY MONDAY

Meet The Team session highlights Season Ticket Party

Rockford, Ill.- Season ticket packages will be available for pick up Monday at the Radisson Hotel, 200 S. Bell School Road starting at 5 p.m.

All 2009-10 season ticket holders who have paid in full will be able to pick up their tickets and meet the 2009-10 IceHogs players at this exclusive party. Only one entrance per season ticket will be allowed to the event.

Early Bird Season Ticket Holders will also get in the package an IceHogs patch and replica autographed team photo from 2008-09. Any season ticket holder who paid by the Sept. 20 deadline will also get a voucher for a Make ‘Em See Red puck.

Arena Club members will also get their parking passes for 2009-10 and all season ticket holders will find in their packets an order form for the three Chicago Blackhawks bus trips scheduled this season. Tickets for the bus trip will be available to season ticket holder before they are open to the public.

Players will be on hand from 5 to 8 p.m. Tickets will also be able to be picked up starting Tuesday at the Rockford MetroCentre during regular business hours.

Next Regular Season Home Game: Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. After five-straight road tilts to open the 2009-10 regular season the IceHogs return home to face the Wolves. The first 5,000 fans to the game will pick up an IceHogs wall calendar from Maverick Media and 23 WIFR.

ICEHOGS GENEROUS FANS DONATE $2,200 TO CHARITY

Sydney Ives (second from right) was named an honorary IceHog in May. On Wedneday, IceHogs fans raised $1,100 for her and another $1,100 for the Jr. IceHogs program.
09/25/2009 9:37 AM - Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs Charitable Foundation raised $1,100 each for two organizations on Wednesday at Carlson Ice Arena.

Gate receipts from the more than 400 fans who passed through the doors at Wednesday’s exhibition opener against the Chicago Wolves will be split between the Jr. IceHogs Hockey Program of the Rockford Park District and Honorary IceHog Sydney Ives. Read more about Sydney here.

A check presentation will be made on ice before Saturday’s exhibition contest against Peoria. The puck drops at 7:05 p.m.

Next Regular Season Home Game: Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. After five-straight road tilts to open the 2009-10 regular season the IceHogs return home to face the Wolves. The first 5,000 fans to the game will pick up an IceHogs wall calendar from Maverick Media and 23 WIFR.

HOGS TRAVEL TO PEORIA FOR SECOND EXHIBITION GAME

Rockford, Ill.– The Rockford IceHogs will travel to Peoria tonight to face the Rivermen in the first game of a home-and-home preseason series.

This is the third straight season the Hogs will face Peoria in a home-and-home preseason matchup. The Hogs are 3-1-0-0 all-time against the Rivermen in exhibition play.

Rockford opened exhibition play Wednesday with a 4-0 blanking of the Chicago Wolves at Carlson Ice Arena in Loves Park.

The IceHogs’ training camp roster now stands at 24 after 17 players were released from the training camp on Thursday and Bryan Bickell and Rob Klinkhammer were recalled to the Chicago Blackhawks.

The Rivermen, who still have 36 players on their preseason roster, will open their exhibition schedule when the puck drops at tonight at 7 p.m. at Carver Arena.

Both teams conclude their preseason schedule on Saturday when the series shifts to the Rockford MetroCentre for a 7:05 p.m. faceoff.

Next Regular Season Home Game: Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. After five-straight road tilts to open the 2009-10 regular season the IceHogs return home to face the Wolves. The first 5,000 fans to the game will pick up an IceHogs wall calendar from Maverick Media and 23 WIFR.

BUD LIGHT HOG TALK RETURNS TO COUSIN'S IN 2009-10

Coaches show returns to Cousin’s on Mondays from 6-7 p.m.

Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs announced on Thursday that the American Hockey League club, along with Bud Light, will host 20 Bud Light Hog Talks at Cousin’s Bar and Grill throughout the 2009-10 season. Bud Light Hog Talk will run from 6-7 p.m. on Monday nights.

This season’s first Bud Light Hog Talk will take place on Monday, Oct. 5, the day after the team returns from their season opener in Peoria. The show will be hosted by WXRX’s Jim Stone and each week will feature different coaches, players and front office personnel.

After a week off on Monday, Oct. 19, as the team returns home from an eastern road swing through Ohio and Ontario, Bud Light Hog Talk will run every Monday night through Dec. 7. After a two week break the show resumes on Dec. 28 and will finish out the season with two dates in January, three in February, four in March and a final show on April 12 after the 2009-10 regular season has concluded.

For a complete listing of Hog Talk dates, check out the IceHogs community calendar on the web through www.icehogs.com.

Cousin’s Bar and Grill is located on the corner of East State Street and Perryville Road in Rockford. Cousin’s will feature different food and Bud Light specials every Monday night for IceHogs fans. The show will be broadcast live on the IceHogs flagship radio station 1330 AM WNTA.

Fans in attendance will also have an opportunity to register for prizes including IceHogs tickets and merchandise, courtesy of the IceHogs and Bud Light. For more information about Bud Light Hog Talk, contact the IceHogs office at (815) 986-6465.

Next Regular Season Home Game: Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. After five-straight road tilts to open the 2009-10 regular season the IceHogs return home to face the Wolves. The first 5,000 fans to the game will pick up an IceHogs wall calendar from Maverick Media and 23 WIFR.

ICEHOGS RELEASE 17 FROM TRAINING CAMP

Winger Adam Huxley was one of 17 players released from their training camp try-out with the IceHogs on Thursday. (Photo by Greg Hamil)
09/24/2009 1:36 PM -
24 skaters remain in camp

Rockford, Ill.- Chicago Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliations Mark Bernard announced on Thursday that the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League have released 17 players from the team’s training camp.

All 17 players released were in Rockford training camp on a try out. With the release of 17 players and the recall of Bryan Bickell and Rob Klinkhammer to the Blackhawks earlier in the day, the IceHogs training camp roster now stands at 24.

Players Released From Try-Out (17)
Forwards: Adam Huxley, Tommy Lange, Matt MacIlvane, Daniel Michalsky, Derek Patrosso, Evan Rankin, Chris Robertson, Brad Schell, Ryan Smyth, Jereme Tendler and Jaime Zimmel

Defensemen: Jason Legault, Jason Lepine, Milan Maslonka, Jamie Milam, Steven Oleksy and Brock Wilson

Players Recalled To Chicago (2)
Forwards: Bryan Bickell and Rob Klinkhammer

Players On Rockford’s Training Camp Roster (24)
Forwards (13): Akim Aliu, Dan Bertram, Mark Cullen, Nathan Davis, Bryan Ewing, Ryan Flinn, Adam Hobson, Justin Hodgman, Bracken Kearns, Matt Keith, Pete MacArthur, Derek Nesbitt and Maxime Tanguay

Defensemen (8): Daryl Boyle, Mike Brennan, Jonathan Carlsson, Joe Charlebois, Brian Connelly, Simon Danis-Pepin, David Phillips and Jean-Claude Sawyer

Goaltenders (3): Joe Fallon, Joe Palmer and Alec Richards

Next Regular Season Home Game: Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. After five-straight road tilts to open the 2009-10 regular season the IceHogs return home to face the Wolves. The first 5,000 fans to the game will pick up an IceHogs wall calendar from Maverick Media and 23 WIFR.

BIG THIRD PERIOD LIFTS ROCKFORD IN PRESEASON OPENER

Rockford, Ill.- After nearly two scoreless periods, the Rockford IceHogs broke open their preseason opener against the Chicago Wolves with three third period goals. Joe Palmer made 20 saves to preserve the 4-0 shutout at Carlson Ice Arena in Loves Park.

After a scoreless first period, a British invasion gave the Rockford IceHogs a 1-0 lead late in the middle frame. Defenseman David Phillips dumped the puck in from the neutral zone at 19:42 in the second period, when it took an odd bounce and went into the empty net. Assists came from Brock Wilson and Matt McIlvane.

Then the Hogs took advantage of a 5-on-3 power play to go up 2-0 in the third when Jason Lepine drove in a blast from the deep slot at 3:00 in the third period. Assists came from Jamie Milam and Tommy Lange.
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“We worked hard all week in practice and I thought these guys once they got the nerves and the jitters out of the way were real good,” said IceHogs Head Coach Bill Peters. “They took over the game late in the game.”

Peters watched the game from the stands on Wednesday as Ted Dent took over as bench boss for the night with the assistance of Toledo Walleye Head Coach Nick Vitucci.

At 5:50 in the second period, Daniel Michalsky tallied for the IceHogs with helpers from Ryan Smyth and Lepine.

And Lepine, who is on a try-out from the Bloomington Prairie Thunder of the International Hockey League, added a second goal at 16:48 in the third frame to put the Hogs up 4-0. Maxime Tanguay and Michalsky had the assists.

“We thought we knew what we were going to do tomorrow,” Peters said of the impending Training Camp cuts. “We thought that some guys were maybe going to head out of town but we have to re-evaluate that after tonight’s game and we’ll talk about that as a staff tomorrow Some guys may have bought themselves some more time.”
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Kevin Armstrong started for Chicago and turned away all 13 shots he faced. He was replaced midway through the second period by Kris Mayotte who allowed all four Rockford goals on 17 shots.

Next Regular Season Home Game: Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. After five-straight road tilts to open the 2009-10 regular season the IceHogs return home to face the Wolves. The first 5,000 fans to the game will pick up an IceHogs wall calendar from Maverick Media and 23 WIFR.

NIGHT RANGER TO PLAY AT HOGTOBERFEST ON FRIDAY, OCT. 23

Night Ranger will perform before the IceHogs game on Oct. 23 outside the Rockford MetroCentre.

09/22/2009 2:30 PM -  IceHogs announce pregame block party plans

Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs announced that the rock band Night Ranger will be headlining the team's inaugural Hogtoberfest sponsored by Pepsi on Friday, Oct. 23 outside the Rockford MetroCentre.

Hogtoberfest, a pre-game block party on Elm Street, will take place before the IceHogs take on the Milwaukee Admirals at the Rockford MetroCentre at 7:05 p.m.

Tickets purchased for the IceHogs contest against Milwaukee will also be good for Hogtoberfest, highlighted by Night Ranger. Gates for the block party will open at 5 p.m. and the event will feature concessions including, hot dogs, hamburgers, Pepsi products, beer and more.

“I feel that this will be a great opportunity for all the people who work in the Rockford area to able to enjoy a great concert and sporting event immediately following their long week at work,” said IceHogs Team President Mark Bernard. “What a great way for them to decompress and start a fantastic fall weekend.“

Night Ranger has left an indelible mark with a string of best-selling albums that has sold more than 16 million copies worldwide. The band's popularity was fuelled by an impressive list of instantly recognizable hit singles and signature album tracks, including “Sister Christian,” “(You Can Still) Rock In America,” “When You Close Your Eyes,” “Sentimental Street,” “Goodbye” and “Don't Tell Me You Love Me.”

Fans can purchase tickets for the event at the MetroCentre Box Office, Hog Headquarters inside Cherryvale Mall, by phone at (815) 968-5222 or on the Web at www.metrocentre.com.

For more information about Night Ranger, visit the bands Web site www.nightranger.com.

Next Home Game: Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs open the home portion of the 2009-10 regular season schedule against the rival Wolves. The first 5,000 fans to the IceHogs home opener will receive a 2009-10 IceHogs wall calendar courtesy of Maverick Media and 23-WIFR.

ICEHOGS TRAINING CAMP REPORT: DAY 3

09/22/2009 1:43 PM - Team Red came back for some revenge on Tuesday, beating Team White 4-3 in the third day of IceHogs Training Camp 2009. The IceHogs Communications team will be blogging from camp all week.

FIVE MORE PLAYERS SENT TO ROCKFORD FROM CHICAGO

Bryan Bickell was one of five players assigned to Rockford from the Chicago Blackhawks.
09/22/2009 9:24 AM - IceHogs preseason roster now stands at 43

Rockford, Ill.- The Chicago Blackhawks announced on Monday that five more players have been reassigned to the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League. Players sent to Rockford include forwards Bryan Bickell, Mark Cullen and Rob Klinkhammer along with defensemen Daryl Boyle and Brian Connelly.

Additionally, the Blackhawks sent left wing Kyle Beach and defenseman Shawn Lalonde to their junior clubs.

Rockford’s training camp roster now stands at 43 with the club’s first preseason game set for Wednesday against the Chicago Wolves at 7:05 p.m. at Carlson Ice Arena.

Bickell, Connelly and Klinkhammer all skated for the IceHogs last season. Bickell’s season was cut short due to injury as he missed 38 contests in 2008-09. The winger is entering his fourth overall season after scoring six goals and eight assists in 42 games.

Connelly enters his first full professional season after playing in nine games with Rockford last year. After completing his third season at Colorado College, Connelly joined the IceHogs for the playoff push and first round of the postseason.

Klinkhammer begins his third season in the pro ranks and second with Rockford. After signing his first NHL contract in the summer, Klinkhammer looks to build on a sophomore campaign in ’08-09 in which he tallied 15 goals and 18 assists in 76 games.

The 2009-10 season marks the return to the Blackhawks organization for Cullen. The veteran center played with the Hawks in 2005-06 and the club’s AHL affiliate in Norfolk. Last season Cullen skated with the Western Conference Champion Manitoba Moose chipping in 14 goals and 25 assists in 56 games.

Boyle comes to the Blackhawks organization after playing his first full season with the Norfolk Admirals. The defenseman led all Admirals rookies in scoring, accumulating 15 points in ’08-09.

Next Home Game: Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs open the home portion of the 2009-10 regular season schedule against the rival Wolves. The first 5,000 fans to the IceHogs home opener will receive a 2009-10 IceHogs wall calendar courtesy of Maverick Media and 23-WIFR.

ICEHOGS TRAINING CAMP REPORT: DAY 2

09/21/2009 12:19 PM - The IceHogs Communications staff will be blogging from Training Camp all week. Sunday's post was about some things to watch for this week. On Monday the Blog Hogs broke down the first scrimmage.

CHICAGO ASSIGNS 14 MORE SKATERS TO ROCKFORD

Dan Bertram was sent to Rockford from Blackhawks camp on Friday. Bertram returns to Rockford for his second season. (Photo by Jim Orlando)
09/18/2009 3:45 PM -
IceHogs training camp roster grows to 38

Rockford, Ill.- The Chicago Blackhawks announced on Friday that 14 players have been assigned to the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League. Rockford’s training camp opens on Sunday, Sept. 20 and the team’s training camp roster now stands at 38.

The forwards sent to Rockford include Akim Aliu, Dan Bertram, Nathan Davis, Bryan Ewing, Adam Hobson, Bracken Kearns, Pete MacArthur and Derek Nesbitt. Mike Brennan, Jonathan Carlsson, Simon Danis-Pepin and David Phillips were the defensemen assigned to the IceHogs along with goalies Joe Fallon and Alec Richards.

Rockford’s training camp roster now features ten players who suited up and played for the IceHogs last season including Aliu, Bertram, Brennan, Charlebois, Davis, Fallon, Hobson, Lepine, MacArthur and Sawyer. Nesbitt last played for Rockford during the 2007-08 campaign.

Next Home Game: Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs open the home portion of the 2009-10 regular season schedule against the rival Wolves. The first 5,000 fans to the IceHogs home opener will receive a 2009-10 IceHogs wall calendar courtesy of Maverick Media and 23-WIFR.

BLACKHAWKS TRIM TRAINING CAMP ROSTER TO 50

Defenseman J.C. Sawyer was one of six players assigned to Rockford from Chicago on Wednesday. (Photo by Jim Orlando)
09/16/2009 2:27 PM -
Chicago, Ill.- The Chicago Blackhawks have assigned forwards Justin Hodgman, Matt Keith and Maxime Tanguay, defensemen Joe Charlebois and Jean-Claude Sawyer and goaltender Joe Palmer to the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs.

In addition, the Blackhawks have assigned forwards Byron Froese and David Gilbert and defenseman Teigan Zahn to their junior clubs.

The Blackhawks’ training camp roster now stands at 50 active players, which includes 29 forwards, 16 defensemen and five goaltenders.

ROCKFORD ANNOUNCES TRAINING CAMP INVITEES

09/16/2009 10:06 AM -
18 non-contracted players invited to IceHogs camp

Rockford, Ill.- Chicago Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliations Mark Bernard announced on Wednesday that 18 non-contracted players have been invited to training camp for the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League. IceHogs training camp is set to open on Sunday, Sept. 20 at the Rockford MetroCentre.

The invite list includes 12 forwards and six defensemen. The forwards are Ryan Flinn, Adam Huxley, Tommy Lange, Matt McIlvane, Daniel Michalsky, Derek Patroso, Evan Rankin, Chris Robertson, Brad Schell, Ryan Smyth, Jereme Tendler, Jaime Zimmel.

The six defenseman invited include Jason Legault, Jason Lepine, Milan Maslonka, Jamie Milam, Steven Oleksy and Brock Wilson.

Lange, Michalsky, Patrosso, Rankin, Robertson, Smyth, Maslonka, Milam, Oleksy and Wilson are all under contract with the IceHogs’ ECHL affiliate Toledo Walleye.

For a complete schedule for the IceHogs 11th Training Camp, click here.

Next Home Game: Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs open the home portion of the 2009-10 regular season schedule against the rival Wolves. The first 5,000 fans to the IceHogs home opener will receive a 2009-10 IceHogs wall calendar courtesy of Maverick Media and 23-WIFR.

ICEHOGS TO HOST OPEN HOUSE AT THE METROCENTRE

09/15/2009 10:00 AM -
Building tours, public skate, Town Hall Meeting, seat specials among the highlights

Rockford, Ill.- Rockford IceHogs fans can get a behind-the-scenes look of the Rockford MetroCentre when the IceHogs host a free open house on Friday, Sept. 18 from 5-9 p.m. The public open house will feature several activities.

Patrons can take a building tour of the MetroCentre that will showcase the Dental Dimensions Club Lounge, the new Executive Suites and the IceHogs locker room. Other tour highlights include the visiting team locker rooms, an up close look at the Zambonis and the MetroCentre’s new entrance.

Fans are also invited to bring their skates for a free public skate on the MetroCentre ice. Skates will not be provided by the IceHogs or MetroCentre. The IceHogs’ merchandise stand will be open and will feature a clearance sale. Fans can purchase IceHogs Fleeces for $30 and the merchandise stand will have several novelties for less than $10.

IceHogs Team President and General Manager Mark Bernard will hold a Town Hall Meeting in the upper concourse of the MetroCentre beginning at 6 p.m. Bernard will cover the upcoming training camp, promotions and much more. Fans are encouraged to come with questions as it will be an open forum.

The open house will coincide with the IceHogs Red Tag Season Ticket Sale. Every seat in the top row of the MetroCentre’s Mezzanine Level will be on sale starting at $160 for the entire season. A minimum of two seats must be purchased and the IceHogs are offering convenient payment plans. A pick-a-seat event will also be held as the best available seats for season ticket purchase will be marked and will be made available.

All fans in attendance can take advantage of opening weekend ticket specials as well. The MetroCentre Box Office will be open during the event as tickets are now on sale for the 2009-10 regular season.

For more information regarding the IceHogs Open House at the Rockford MetroCentre, contact the IceHogs at (815) 986-6465.

Next Home Game: Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs open the home portion of the 2009-10 regular season schedule against the rival Wolves. The first 5,000 fans to the IceHogs home opener will receive a 2009-10 IceHogs wall calendar courtesy of Maverick Media and 23-WIFR.

ICEHOGS ANNOUNCE $160 RED TAG SEASON TICKET SALE

09/10/2009 10:00 AM -
Fans can take advantage of deal on Sept. 18

Rockford, Ill.- Rockford IceHogs Team President Mark Bernard announced on Thursday that the American Hockey League club is holding a Red Tag Season Ticket Sale on Friday, Sept. 18 at the Rockford MetroCentre.

Fans will have an opportunity to purchase season tickets for the upcoming 2009-10 season for just $160 per seat. The Red Tag Season Ticket Sale is a part of the IceHogs Open House at the Rockford MetroCentre on Sept. 18 from 5-9 p.m. The seats can only be purchased during the Open House event.

“In this tough economic time we felt that it was important that all families in the Rockford area have the opportunity to provide great family entertainment for their loved ones,” said Bernard. “With the discounted seats, we feel that many families and couples will and should take advantage of the IceHogs contribution to help stimulate the local economy.”

All $160 seats available for purchase are located in the top row of the MetroCentre’s mezzanine level. A minimum of two Red Tag seats must be purchased. The special ticket package will feature all 40 IceHogs home games during the 2009-10 regular season and the same seat for every game. Other season ticket holder benefits will not apply to the seats purchased at the Red Tag Season Ticket Sale.

“IceHogs hockey has always been and always will be known for its great family entertainment,” said Bernard. “We want everyone, no matter what your economic status might be, to enjoy exciting AHL hockey and the great new amenities at the refurbished MetroCentre.”

Fans taking advantage of the Red Tag Season Ticket Sale can also set up a payment plan for their tickets. A $50 per seat deposit is required at signing and fans can pay off the remaining balance with two more payments in October and November.

The IceHogs will also make available seats for season ticket purchase in the executive sideline, executive endzone and mezzanine sideline for the ’09-10 season.

For more information regarding the IceHogs unprecedented Red Tag Season Ticket Sale, contact the IceHogs office at (815) 847-6399.

HOGS SIGN ROOKIE CENTERMAN MAXIME TANGUAY

Rockford, Ill.- Chicago Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliations Mark Bernard announced Wednesday that the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League have signed center Maxime Tanguay to a one-year AHL contract.

Tanguay, 20, recorded 192 points (72g-120a) in 257 career games in the Québec Major Junior Hockey League over five seasons before turning pro this summer.

“Maxime enters his first professional season after a very successful final season in junior hockey and has excellent offensive capabilities that have earned him this AHL contract,” said Bernard. “Maxime is a player who we will watch very closely over this season to see how he develops, whether it be in the AHL or ECHL.”

In his first full season with the Victoriaville Tigres and fifth in the QMJHL in 2008-09, the Lac Etchemin, Québec native recorded career highs in games played with 62, goals (26), assists (40) and points (66). He was the #69 overall (round 3) pick in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft by the Chicago Blackhawks.

He is the brother of Tampa Bay Lightning winger Alex Tanguay.

Season Ticket Are On Sale: Find a 2009-10 ticket package that works for you, call (815) 847-6399 to speak with an IceHogs season ticket representative. Packages range from five game packages up to full season Arena Club season tickets.

2009-10 PROMOTIONAL SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED

09/03/2009 10:24 AM - Schedule includes several new and popular returning giveaways

Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs, members of the American Hockey League, announced Thursday the dates for many of the giveaways and promotions for the fast-approaching 2009-10 season.

Highlighting this season’s slate is Mike Peck Night, honoring the Voice of the IceHogs Mike Peck, who will be broadcasting his 600th IceHogs game on the road against Lake Erie on Oct. 10. To mark this achievement, 2,500 Mike Peck bobbleheads will be given away on Nov. 14 against Abbotsford thanks to Dental Dimensions, WNTA and 23-WIFR.

Other new giveaways include an IceHogs jersey pillow (first 2,500 fans) on Dec. 26, an IceHogs car flag (first 2,500 fans) courtesy of U.S. Cellular on March 20, golf club covers (first 2,500 fans) on March 26 and beach towel night (first 2,500 fans) on April 3.

Opening Night on Oct. 16 against the Chicago Wolves will feature 5,000 IceHogs calendars and bam bam sticks. The annual magnet schedule will be given out to the first 5,000 fans the following night, Oct. 17 against the Peoria Rivermen.

Popular giveaways such as the youth jersey (first 1,500 kids 14 and under) on Nov. 28, white jersey bag (first 2,500 fans) thanks to Rockford Orthopedic, BOB FM, and 23-WIFR on Dec. 5, fleece blanket (first 2,500 fans) courtesy of Lonnie’s Carpet Max on Jan. 23, Mr. Potato Head on Feb. 13 and the Rockford IceHogs 2009-10 team photo on April 2 will be returning again this season.

The Hogs will also help their fans “Go Green” with three new giveaways. Head to the Rockford MetroCentre on Oct. 31 to pick up a reusable aluminum water bottle thanks to Rock Valley Culligan and 97 ZOK. The “Go Green” t-shirt on Jan. 2 and goalie mask replica on the Feb. 15 afternoon game are made from recycled materials.

The annual Teddy Bear Toss is set for Dec. 5 against Abbotsford, Hammy’s Birthday will be celebrated on March 14 and the 11th Annual Jersey Auction is slated for March 27.

WXRX's Student Rush is also back this year meaning all high school and college students will get the best available seat for just $10 if they show up at the MetroCentre Box Office less than an hour before any weekday or Sunday game all season.

For a schedule of upcoming promotions, visit icehogs.com throughout the 2009-10 season. Individual tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. on Sept. 9. The IceHogs’ 11th season and third in the American Hockey League gets underway against the Peoria Rivermen on Oct. 4 at Carver Arena in Peoria.

Season Ticket Are On Sale: Find a 2009-10 ticket package that works for you, call (815) 847-6399 to speak with an IceHogs season ticket representative. Packages range from five game packages up to full season Arena Club season tickets.