VETERAN NHL GOALTENDER CLOUTIER SIGNS WITH ICEHOGS

Photo by Steve Babineau
11/30/2009 11:23 AM -
Rockford, Ill.- Chicago Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliations Mark Bernard announced Monday that the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League have signed goaltender Dan Cloutier to a Professional Try-Out Agreement.

The veteran puck stopper has amassed a 139-142-33 record with a 2.77 goals against average and 15 shutouts in 351 career games in the National Hockey League with the Los Angeles Kings, Vancouver Canucks, Tampa Bay Lightning and New York Rangers.

The former first round pick (#26 overall) by the Rangers in the 1994 NHL Draft last played for the Kings and Manchester Monarchs (AHL) during the 2007-08 campaign. With the Kings, he played in nine contests (2-4-1) with a .887 save percentage and a 3.43 goals against average. He notched a 4-9-0 record with the Monarchs with a 3.50 goals against average and .869 save percentage.

The Mon-Laurier, Quebec, native has also appeared in 98 career AHL games, posting a 38-45-11 record with a 3.23 goals against average and three shutouts with the Monarchs, Hartford Wolf Pack and Binghamton Rangers. He was nominated to the AHL All-Rookie Team during the 1996-97 season.

Cloutier’s best stretch came while he was in Vancouver from 2001-04 when he became the first goaltender in Canuck’s history to register three straight 30-win seasons. The veteran net minder compiled a 109-68-24 record with a 2.54 goals against average and 14 shutouts in 208 games as a Canuck.

Next Home Game: Wednesday, Dec. 2 vs. Chicago Wolves: The puck drops at 7:05 p.m. Golden Goal is back! If the IceHogs score with 9:10 left on the clock in the third period, someone in the building will win $10,000. Beer will also be $2 at select concession stands throughout the arena. High school and college students can also pick up the best available seat after 6 p.m. for just $10 thanks to WXRX’s Student Rush program.

HOGS DOMINANT IN 5-1 WIN OVER HEAT

Hogs have outscored Abbotsford 11-4 in Rockford this season

Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs have posted back-to-back wins for the first time since Oct. 16-17 thanks to five different goal scorers in a 5-1 victory Saturday over the Abbotsford Heat at the Rockford MetroCentre.

"Any time you can get some wins together here, it's nice," said defenseman Daryl Boyle. "Win one, lose one is not so nice. We're going to keep going here, hopefully we can build into three and four and go from there."

The Hogs are back at .500 for the first time since Oct. 30 thanks to four out of a possible six points in Week 9.

In Saturday's game, Mark Cullen sniped the corner of the net for his team-leading 10th goal of the season at 5:28 in the first period off of a great pass from Brian Connelly. Boyle also got an assist.

Then Evan Brophey banged home this third of the season at 10:04 with helpers from Richard Petiot and Boyle to make the score 2-0.

Left Wing Ryan Flinn continued the offensive assault, posting his first goal of the season at 2:50 in the second. Jake Dowell stole a pass and dished to Flinn in the Abbotsford zone and the gritty winger made it 3-0.

Less than a minute later Bracken Kearns ended Heat goalie Leland Irving's night at 3:40, pushing in the fourth goal of the contest with assists from Jack Skille and Kyle Greentree.

The same line came back again to post another goal when Skille finished a give-and-go breakaway with Kearns at 1:20 in the third period to make the score 5-0. Greentree also got an assist.

All of Rockford's goal came even strength, with every player on the team finishing +1 or higher and the squad combined for a season-high +25.

"Any time we can score nine goals in back-to-back games, that's good," said Boyle. "Our defense comes first. We've really buckled down there and are spending less time in our d-zone so we're scoring more goals."

In the middle of the third, Riley Armstrong ended Joe Fallon's shutout bid at 7:42 on a tic-tac-toe play from Garth Murray and Keith Seabrook on the power play. But that's all that the Heat could manage as the IceHogs took a 3-1-0-0 series victory from the Heat.

Irving took the loss with eight saves on 12 shots, while Keetly stopped 12 of the 13 shots he faced. Fallon picked up his third win on five starts (3-1-1) since Corey Crawford was sidlined with a lower-body injury.

"I had a couple of days rest, and I was able to rest my back and my mind," said Fallon. "I came back feeling 100 percent. Our team is playing really well right now and our defense was unbelievable."

Rockford's penalty kill was 5-for-6, while the power play squad was 0-for-4 in the game.

Next Home Game: Wednesday, Dec. 2 vs. Chicago Wolves: The puck drops at 7:05 p.m. Golden Goal is back! If the IceHogs score with 9:10 left on the clock in the third period, someone in the building will win $10,000. Beer will also be $2 at select concession stands throughout the arena. High school and college students can also pick up the best available seat after 6 p.m. for just $10 thanks to WXRX’s Student Rush program.

RICHARDS EARNS FIRST AHL WIN IN GRAND RAPIDS

Four different goal scorers push Hogs to 4-3 win

Grand Rapids, Mich.- Alec Richards first career AHL win didn’t come easy. The rookie net-minder did help stave off a third period rally by the Grand Rapids Griffins and held up a 4-3 Rockford IceHogs win on Friday night.

Richards made 27 saves and handed the Griffins just their second home loss in 11 games in 2009-10.

Rockford struck first when Pete MacArthur hacked in a rebound at 2:32 of the opening frame. MacArthur picked up a Jassen Cullimore slap shot and knocked in his second goal of the season past Thomas McCollum.

The Griffins evened the score before the first break, Evan McGrath fired home his sixth goal of the season over the blocker shoulder of Richards at 18:15. Francis Pare set up the marker.

Tied at 1-1 heading into period two, the IceHogs put two more tallies on the board to grab a two goal advantage. Kyle Greentree picked up a goal for the second straight game when he finished off a picture perfect three-on-two breakaway with Bracken Kearns and Jack Skille at 9:37.

Akim Aliu later extended the IceHogs lead to 3-1 when he banked in his sixth goal of the season off of McCollum at 18:03 of the middle stanza.

Rockford’s lead was extended to 4-1 with Nathan Davis’ eighth goal of the season in the third period. MacArthur picked off a Grand Rapids pass in the neutral zone and fed Davis at 3:54 for the three-goal cushion.

The lead would shrink, however, as the Griffins would close the gap to 4-3. Mattias Ritola began the comeback when he knocked a rebound past Richards at 5:57 for his fifth goal of the campaign.

Then Tomas Tatar made it a one-goal game when he finished off a Cory Emmerton feed at 11:52, his sixth goal of the season.

Richards and the IceHogs held the Griffins off the board the rest of the way. Rockford went 0-2 on the power play while Grand Rapids was 1-3.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Nov. 28 vs. Abbotsford Heat. Game time is slated for 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs close out November with their final contest against the Heat in 2009-10. The first 1,500 fans to the game will receive a Jack Skille poster courtesy of Pepsi, FOX 39 and ESPN Radio 1380 AM.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM THE ROCKFORD ICEHOGS

The Rockford IceHogs family would like to wish all of their fans a safe and happy Thanksgiving. Travel safe and we'll see you at the Rockford MetroCentre on Saturday as the Hogs take on the Abbotsford Heat at 7:05 p.m.

HOGS TO HOST $2 BEER NIGHT ON WEDNESDAY NIGHT

Fans can take advantage of $2 beers on Dec. 2 (That's the administrator's birthday so put one on his tab!)

Rockford, Ill.- Rockford IceHogs Team President Mark Bernard announced today that the American Hockey League club will host $2 Beer Night on Wednesday, Dec. 2 when the IceHogs take on the Chicago Wolves at the Rockford MetroCentre at 7:05 p.m.

Fans can purchase 12-ounce Bud Select 55s at two kiosk beer stands located in the MetroCentre’s concourse. The $2 beers are presented by Anheuser-Busch and will be available beginning at 6 p.m. when the doors open for the IceHogs-Wolves game.

Tickets for the game can be purchased by calling (815) 968-5222, in person at the MetroCentre Box Office or Hog Headquarters inside the Cherryvale Mall or on the Web at www.metrocentre.com.

During all Wednesday and Sunday home games in 2009-10, fans can purchase Family Four Packs for just $44. Family Four Packs include four tickets, four hot dogs, four soft drinks and four popcorns. Family Four Packs can be purchased at the MetroCentre Box Office or by calling the IceHogs office at (815) 847-6399.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Nov. 28 vs. Abbotsford Heat. Game time is slated for 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs close out November with their final contest against the Heat in 2009-10. The first 1,500 fans to the game will receive a Jack Skille poster courtesy of Pepsi, FOX 39 and ESPN Radio 1380 AM.

MANITOBA SNAGS 2-1 WIN ON TWO THIRD-PERIOD GOALS

Kyle Greentree was the only goal scorer in Rockford's 2-1 loss to Manitoba on Wednesday. (photo by Greg Hamil)

Hogs finish 2-3-1-0 in six-game home stand

Rockford, Ill.- For the third straight game, the Rockford IceHogs put 40 or more shots on goal, but couldn't manage a win against the Manitoba Moose on Wednesday at the Rockford MetroCentre.

The Hogs fell 2-1 after giving up two goals in the third period.

"Any goalie that's in there, we know we have to throw pucks at him," said Kyle Greentree, who scored Rockford's only goal. "If you're a goalie in this league, you're pretty good, so we just have to keep throwing pucks at the net and good things will happen."

After a scoreless first period, Greentree pounded home the puck on the doorstep at 13:42 in the second frame with assists from Jack Skille and Brian Connelly. The league's second-most prolific goal scorer in 2008-09 recorded his second goal of the season and first in nine games.

"I've been struggling a little bit and it feels good to get a bounce and have it go in," he said. "But I'd rather have a win than get a goal."

In the third on a Manitoba power play, Dan Sexton picked off an IceHogs pass and dished to Matt Pettinger, who sniped the corner of the goal at 8:01.

And at 11:43, Pettinger tipped in another goal to give Manitoba the lead. Brian Salcido got the helper.

"We have to keep shooting and getting guys to the net," Greentree said. "We're a bit frustrated but at the same time, when youre throwing that many pucks, something's bound to go in. If we can generate 40 shots, we're going to create some opportunities."

Manitoba's Cory Schneider stopped 39 in the win, while Alec Richards has 19 saves in his American Hockey League debut.

"(Richards) looked really good, he was sharp," Greentree said. "Both of our goalies, when they're on, they give us a shot. He was good tonight."

Rockford's power play was 0-for-2 and Manitoba finished 1-for-5.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Nov. 28, 2009 vs. Abbotsford Heat. The puck is set to drop at 7:05 p.m. The Hogs and Heat close out the season series with their fourth meeting in 2009-10. The first 1,500 fans in the building will pick up a Jack Skille poster courtesy of Pepsi, FOX 39 and ESPN 1380.

HOGS AND MANITOBA SCORELESS AFTER ONE

Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs have taken an early 1-0 lead thanks to Kyle Greentree.

The winger pounded home the puck on the doorstep at 13:42 with assists from Jack Skille and Mark Cullen. The league's second most prolific goal scorer in 2008-09 put in his second goal of the season and first in nine games.

The Rockford IceHogs wrap up a six-game homestand tonight when they battle the Manitoba Moose at 7:05 p.m. at the Rockford MetroCentre.

With a win the IceHogs can close out the home stretch above .500 (2-2-1-0). They can also look to put some distance behind them in a crowded West Division as five teams are tied for second with place with 21 points.

Tonight’s game can be heard on 1330 WNTA, ESPN 1380 or through wnta.com beginning at 6:35 p.m. Fans with Comcast cable can also watch the game on channel 57 in Rockford. For tickets to the game, call (815) 968- 5222, visit metrocentre.com or stop by the MetroCentre Box Office or at Hog Headquarters inside the Cherryvale Mall.

The IceHogs are guaranteeing a win over Manitoba. If the IceHogs fail to live up to the guarantee, then every fan in attendance can take their ticket to the Box Office and redeem it for a free ticket to the IceHogs game on Wednesday, Dec. 2 against the Chicago Wolves at 7:05 p.m.

Students can take advantage of another WXRX Student Rush Night tonight. High school and college students can bring a valid student ID to the MetroCentre’s Box Office beginning at 6 p.m. and will receive the best available seat for just $10.

All fans in attendance tonight can sign up for the IceHogs “Golden Goal” promotion. If the IceHogs score a goal with 9:10 showing on the clock in the third period, one lucky fan will walk away with $10,000.

The IceHogs look to keep pouring shots on the opposing goaltenders as they fired 87 shots combined on Friday and Saturday, including a season-high 44 in the shutout win against Chicago on Friday.

The Hogs are 4-2-0-0 against the North with a 1-0-0-0 record at home during the 2009-10 season.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Nov. 28, 2009 vs. Abbotsford Heat. The puck is set to drop at 7:05 p.m. The Hogs and Heat close out the season series with their fourth meeting in 2009-10. The first 1,500 fans in the building will pick up a Jack Skille poster courtesy of Pepsi, FOX 39 and ESPN 1380.

HOGS COMEBACK FALLS SHORT, TEXAS WINS 4-3 IN OVERTIME

The Rockford IceHogs finish 1-1-1-0 on the week after an overtime loss to Texas on Saturday. (Please credit Greg Hamil)
11/21/2009 8:49 PM - Rockford stands at 0-2-1-0 in three home games against Texas

Rockford, Ill.- The Texas Stars led by two after 40 minutes, but the Rockford IceHogs mounted a serious comeback campaign only to fall in overtime. The IceHogs' Mark Cullen posted two of the team's three goals as Rockford lost 4-3 in overtime at the Rockford MetroCentre.

After tying a season low for fewest shots in a period with two in the first frame, the Hogs posted 39 shots in the next two stanzas. Rockford has 87 shots on the weekend, picking up three points in the process.

“It’s a well-earned point, it would be nice to get out of here with two but we’ll work with that,” said defenseman Simon Danis-Pepin, who picked up his first professional goal. “It was good comeback in the third, but you have to give them credit. They played well.”

After a scoreless first period, Sergei Korostin was credited with the game's first marker with helpers from Mathieu Beaudoin and Travis Morin at 1:48 in the second. The tally ended a 118:48 minute scoreless stretch for Joe Fallon dating back to three minutes into the second period on Wednesday when the netminder gave up a goal to Texas' Luke Gazdic.

Then Andrew Hutchinson drove in his first goal of the season at 15:54 to double Texas' score with helpers from Scott McCulloch and Raymond Sawada.

In the third period, the Hogs got some hope from a blast by Danis-Pepin just 48 seconds into the frame. Danny Bois and Mark Cullen are credited with the assists.

“It feels good to get my first goal and as a team I think we put out a solid effort,” Danis-Pepin said. “Unfortunately things didn’t go our way.”

Then Maxime Fortunus scored his second goal of the season to take the two-goal lead right back at 1:36 in the third. Beaudoin and Korostin were credited with the helpers.

But the Hogs caught a break, finding themselves on a 5-on-3 power play for 1:57 in the middle of the period and Cullen took advantage from the deep slot at 6:04 to make the score 3-2. Pete MacArthur and Jack Skille were credited with the assists.

Then Cullen found the back of the net again for his team-leading ninth goal of the season at 17:19 to tie the score at three. Nathan Davis and Brian Connelly were credited with the helpers.

Raymond Sawada got a penalty shot at 2:10 in the overtime after Fallon threw his stick at the puck but couldn’t finish the free chance on the Rockford puckstopper.

But Fortunus potted his third of the season on a tip-in from a Francis Wathier shot at 3:52 in overtime for the win. Aaron Gagnon also got a helper.

“Texas is a good team and they showed it tonight,” Danis-Pepin said. “They don’t make many mistakes and it was good that we could get three on the board tonight.”

Fallon stopped 24 shots in the loss, while Krahn won his 10th game in a row on 41 saves. Rockford’s power play was 1-for-6 while Texas was 0-for-3.

Next Home Game: Wednesday, Nov. 25 vs. Manitoba Moose. The puck is set to drop at 7:05 p.m. It’s student rush night courtesy of WXRX, and high school and college students with a valid student ID can purchase the best available seat for just $10 after 6 p.m. It’s also a Golden Goal game, and one lucky fan will have the chance to win $10,000 if the IceHogs score a goal with 9:10 left on the clock in the third period. Plus, it’s a Guarantee Win Night! If the IceHogs lose, everyone in attendance receives a free ticket to the game on Wednesday, Dec. 2 vs. Chicago Wolves.

FALLON SHUTS OUT WOLVES 1-0 AT THE METROCENTRE

Hogs end two-game slide against Chicago

Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs threw everything they had at Drew MacIntyre and the Chicago Wolves. They solved the Wolves' netminder just once, but that's all they needed for a 1-0 win on Friday at the Rockford MetroCentre.

The two teams battled all night with Rockford cranking out 43 shots against MacIntyre, including a season-high 23 in the second period. But the veteran netminder had an answer for nearly everything.

"We threw a lot at him and we were crashing the net hard," said winger Danny Bois. "I thought we did a good job of that tonight."

Rockford's Joe Fallon also put together a strong performance, earning his first career American Hockey League shut out on 26 saves.

"Fortunately we got one there in the third period and came away with the win," Fallon said. "As long as we kept shooting, we knew one was going to go in and that's what happened."

After 47 minutes of scoreless hockey, Bracken Kearns lit the lamp in the game's only goal at 7:31 in the third period. Brian Connelly took a shot from the point, Bois poked at the rebound and then Kearns finished it off to give Rockford the lead.

Fallon's shut out came just two weeks after the netminder held Abbotsford off the board for 59 minutes in a 2-1 win on Nov. 7.

"Down the road if things aren't going our way, I can look back at tonight and remember this game." said Fallon "The team put of 43 shots on goal, it was just a great effort from everyone."

The IceHogs were 0-for-7 on the power play while Chicago was 0-for-2 on the man advantage.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Nov. 21 vs. Texas Stars: Game time is 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs take on the Texas Stars for the third time in a little over a week to close out a three-game week. The first 2,500 fans into the building will receive a 2009-10 IceHogs Lunch Tin from Rockford Health Systems, Q98.5 FM and 13WREX.

ICEHOGS, U.S. CELLULAR TO WELCOME TWILIGHT'S ALEX MERAZ

Fans can meet The Twilight Saga star on Dec. 19

Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League announced Thursday that celebrity Alex Meraz from The Twilight Saga: New Moon will be on hand to meet fans and sign autographs during the IceHogs game on Dec. 19, against the San Antonio Rampage at 7:05 p.m.

Meraz will be at the Rockford MetroCentre signing autographs in the concourse from 6-8 p.m. courtesy of U.S. Cellular, FOX 39 and 97ZOK.

To reserve your seats for the game call (815) 968-5222. Tickets can also be purchased in person at the Rockford MetroCentre Box Office in downtown Rockford, at Hog Headquarters inside Cherryvale Mall or on the Web at www.metrocentre.com.

Fans can also register at Hog Headquarters for a chance to win five pairs of exclusive meet-and-greet passes along with tickets to the game presented by U.S. Cellular. Fans may sign up beginning Friday, Nov. 20 and registration will end Dec. 13. Registration will be open during normal mall hours at Hog Headquarters.

The winners will take part in a VIP meet and greet session with Meraz in the Dental Dimensions Club Lounge from 5:30 to 6:00 p.m. before the IceHogs take on the Rampage.

Meraz plays Paul, a volatile teenager who can transform into a werewolf to protect the Quileute reservation against vampires in the upcoming movie to be released on Friday, Nov. 20.

Next Home Game: Friday, Nov. 20 vs. Chicago Wolves. The game starts at 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs are going green, literally. As a part of the IceHogs green initiative in 2009-10, the team will wear special green jerseys when they take on the Wolves. The game is sponsored by No Idle Zone. The jerseys will be raffled off on Friday night and all fans in attendance can register to win! The first 2,000 fans to the game will also receive a green T-shirt replicating the special jerseys worn by the IceHogs.

HOGS STRIKE FIRST, BUT STARS SHINE IN 3-1 WIN

Rockford comes off resounding 6-3 win over Heat

Rockford, Ill.- It's rare for the Rockford IceHogs to lose after taking an early lead, but that's what happened at the Rockford MetroCentre on Wednesday as the Texas Stars beat the Hogs 3-1.

Bracken Kearns gave Rockford a 1-0 lead at 11:45 in the first period on the power play. Kearns backhanded a goal into the cage with helpers from Brian Connelly and Mike Brennan. But then the Stars defense and league-leading goalie Brent Krahn shut Rockford down and posted three goals for the win. Rockford falls to 7-2-1-1 when scoring first in a game.

"We have to do a better job of getting in front of the net," said alternate captain and leading scorer Mark Cullen. "They have good defense and don't give you anything for free. We have to do what it takes to get something past them."

Texas got the scoring going with Warren Peters, who found a pass from Sergei Korostin at 12:17 in the slot to even the score at one. Mathieu Beaudoin was also credited with an assist.

Peters then took a feed from Colton Sceviour to tally his second of the night at 19:11.

In the second period, Luke Gazdic chipped one past Joe Fallon at 3:00 to give Texas a two goal lead. Travis Morin and Maxime Fortunis were credited with the assist.

"We just didn't get the bounces or didn't give the extra effort to get the bounces," Cullen said. "You have to be up every night. It doesn't matter who the opponent is, the standings are close right now and we have to do a better job of getting points."

Fallon stopped 28 shots in the losing effort, while Krahn made 31 saves for the win. Texas was 0-for-5 on the power play, while Rockford was 1-for-3 against the league's top penalty kill.

Next Home Game: Friday, Nov. 20 vs. Chicago Wolves. The game starts at 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs are going green, literally. As a part of the IceHogs green initiative in 2009-10, the team will wear special green jerseys when they take on the Wolves. The game is sponsored by No Idle Zone. The jerseys will be raffled off on Friday night and all fans in attendance can register to win! The first 2,000 fans to the game will also receive a green T-shirt replicating the special jerseys worn by the IceHogs.

BLACKHAWKS RECALL BICKELL FROM ROCKFORD

Chicago, Ill.-The Chicago Blackhawks have recalled left wing Bryan Bickell from the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs.

Bickell, 23, has recorded a +2 plus/minus rating in three games with the Blackhawks this season. He also recorded four penalty minutes in three preseason games with the Blackhawks in North America before dishing out an assist in the team’s 9-2 win over HC Davos in Zurich, Switzerland on September 28. Overall, Bickell has notched two goals in 10 career regular-season games with the Blackhawks over parts of three seasons (2006-07; 2007-08 and 2009-10).

The Orono, Ontario, native has collected four goals, seven points and 26 penalty minutes in 16 AHL tilts with Rockford this season. Chicago’s third choice, 41st overall, in the 2004 National Hockey League Entry Draft, Bickell has appeared in 179 career AHL regular-season contests with the Norfolk Admirals (2006-07) and IceHogs (2007-09) since turning pro in 2006, registering 39 goals, 46 assists, 85 points and 204 penalty minutes.

Bickell ranks third on Rockford's all-time AHL game's list with 131 career games with the IceHogs and seventh on the IceHogs all-time AHL scoring list notching 60 points.

Next Home Game: Wednesday, Nov. 18 vs. Texas Stars. The puck is set to drop at 7:05 p.m. It’s a Golden Goal Wednesday, so if the IceHogs score a goal with 9:10 left on the clock in the third period, one lucky fan will win $10,000. It is also WXRX Student Rush night, and all high school and college students with a valid student ID can purchase the best available seat for just $10 at the MetroCentre’s box office up to one hour before the game.

ICEHOGS EARN A SPLIT IN WEEK 7

Three West Division games set for Week 8

Week 7 Recap
Week 7 was a tale of two very different results for the Rockford IceHogs. A night after getting shutout by the Texas Stars at the Rockford MetroCentre, the IceHogs bounced back with six goals, matching a team season high. Hovering around the .500 mark, Rockford has an opportunity to break out in Week 8 with three more home games slated.

Week 7 Results
Friday, Nov. 13: Texas 4 vs. Rockford 0
Saturday, Nov. 14: Abbotsford 3 vs. Rockford 6

Week 8 Schedule
Wednesday, Nov. 18 vs. Texas, 7:05 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 20 vs. Chicago, 7:05 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 21 vs. Texas, 7:05 p.m.

Bacon Bits:
-A night after getting shutout for a second time in 2009-10, the IceHogs bounced back and matched a season high with six goals on Saturday against Abbotsford

-The IceHogs notched three goals in the game’s first 3:05 on Saturday on the heels of Rockford’s first home shutout loss since March 21, 2008, 3-0 against Quad City

-Rockford had 14 different players register points in its 6-3 win over the Heat

-Forward Maxime Tanguay, recalled by Rockford on Saturday from Toledo, recorded his first career AHL point, an assist, against Abbotsford

-Goalie Joe Fallon picked up his first career AHL home win, making 27 saves in Rockford’s 6-3 win over Abbotsford

-The IceHogs matched a team season-high with four goals in the first period on Saturday

-The six goals on Saturday were scored by six different players, marking the 14 time this season in which the IceHogs have had their goals scored by separate skaters

-Rockford is 6-2-0-1 in games following a loss this season

-The IceHogs are 7-1-1-1 when scoring first and 1-8-0-0 when the opposition nets the game’s first goal

-Mark Cullen leads or is tied for the IceHogs team lead in scoring (16), goals (7), assists (9), power play points (8) and multi-point games (4)

-The IceHogs will play all three games in Week 8 against AHL West Division opponents and then six of their next seven will be against the North

Hot Hog Week 7:

A night after getting shutout, the IceHogs and Danny Bois bounced back with six goals in a 6-2 win over the Abbotsford Heat. Bois chipped in a goal and an assist in the IceHogs win and currently is tied for second on the IceHogs with nine points in 2009-10. His five goals are the third most on the club.

Upcoming Games:
Wednesday, Nov. 18 vs. Texas Stars: The puck drops at 7 p.m. The Rockford IceHogs continue a six-game homestand. The two teams play a total of eight times in 2009-10, three of the meetings happen in November. All high school and college students with a valid student ID can purchase the best available seat for just $10 at the MetroCentre's Box Office up to one hour prior to the game with the WXRX Student Rush program.

Friday, Nov. 20 vs. Chicago Wolves: The game starts at 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs archrivals return to Rockford for a second time this season. For the first time ever the IceHogs will wear green jerseys. The IceHogs are teaming up with No Idle Zone and the first 2,500 fans to the game will receive an IceHogs green T-shirt.

Saturday, Nov. 21 vs. Texas Stars: Game time is slated for 7:05 p.m. For the second time in four days, the Stars visit the MetroCentre. The game is the third of eight on the season and the first 2,500 fans into the building will recieve a 2009-10 IceHogs Lunch Tin from Rockford Health Systems, Q98.5 FM and 13WREX.

The IceHogs Broadcasting Network:
Rockford IceHogs fans can catch all of the IceHogs regular and post-season games on the Hogs flagship radio station Rockford’s Voice, WNTA-AM 1330 and 30 regular season games on ESPN Radio 1380-AM, WTJK. Fans can also watch and listen to the Hogs on the World Wide Web with AHL Live! Visit the IceHogs Web site (icehogs.com) and click on the “click here to watch the AHL Live” icon, and for just $7, you can catch all of the IceHogs action on your computer. Also, fans with Comcast Cable television can tune in to Channel 57 for all the IceHogs hockey action this season. The broadcast begins with the Pregame Show 30 minutes before the puck drops. Make sure to give your opinion during the Comcast Post-Game Call-In Show following each game at (815) 874-8255.

Hog Talk Tonight At Cousin’s Bar and Grill:
Join WXRX’s Jim Stone from 6-7 p.m. tonight at Cousin’s Bar and Grill as he chats with IceHogs Head Coach Bill Peters along with forwards Akim Aliu and Evan Brophey. Cousin’s is located on the corner of East State St. and Perryville in Rockford, and take advantage of some great food and Bud Light specials. If you can’t make it out to Cousin’s, tune into 1330 AM, WNTA.

Tickets Now On Sale!
IceHogs individual game tickets are now on sale! Call (815) 968-5222 to reserve your seats for any IceHogs regular season game during the 2009-10 season. Tickets can also be purchased in person at the Rockford MetroCentre Box Office in downtown Rockford, at Hog Headquarters inside Cherryvale Mall or on the Web at www.metrocentre.com. Tickets start at just $10.

BICKELL SENT BACK TO THE ICEHOGS

Chicago, Ill.-The Chicago Blackhawks have reassigned left wing Bryan Bickell to the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs.

Bickell, 23, has recorded a +2 plus/minus rating in three games with the Blackhawks this season. He also recorded four penalty minutes in three preseason games with the Blackhawks in North America before dishing out an assist in the team’s 9-2 win over HC Davos in Zurich, Switzerland on September 28. Overall, Bickell has notched two goals in 10 career regular-season games with the Blackhawks over parts of three seasons (2006-07; 2007-08 and 2009-10).

Recalled for Sunday's game against San Jose, Bickell logged 12:28 of ice time, a season high with Chicago. Bickell was also on the ice for two of Chicago's four goals in the team's 4-3 overtime win over the Sharks.

The Orono, Ontario, native has collected four goals, seven points and 26 penalty minutes in 16 AHL tilts with Rockford this season. Chicago’s third choice, 41st overall, in the 2004 National Hockey League Entry Draft, Bickell has appeared in 179 career AHL regular-season contests with the Norfolk Admirals (2006-07) and IceHogs (2007-09) since turning pro in 2006, registering 39 goals, 46 assists, 85 points and 204 penalty minutes.

HOGS POST FOUR IN FIRST, BEAT THE HEAT 6-3

Photo by Greg Hamil
Hogs are 1-1-0-0 so far in their five-game home stand

Rockford, Ill.- A night after nothing went their way, the breaks were falling everywhere for the Rockford IceHogs as they beat the Abbotsford Heat 6-3 at the Rockford MetroCentre.

Six different players scored and 14 different skaters got a point as the Hogs posted four in the first period and two more in the third to rebound from a bad loss on Friday.

Defenseman Brian Connelly unloaded a blast from the slot for his second goal of the season to start the scoring at 1:35 with assists from Danny Bois and Mark Cullen. Then Bois put the Hogs up 2-0 just 20 seconds later with helpers from Matt Keith and J.C. Sawyer, who with Maxime Tanguay and Alec Richards was recalled from Toledo this morning.

"It was kind of a downer in the locker room this morning because guys didn't feel like they gave 100 percent last night," Connelly said. "We got a few bumps here and there and we came out with fire. We just have to play like that every night."

Cullen punched in his team-leading seventh goal of the season on the power play at 3:05 in the first to give Rockford a 3-0 lead as he was falling to the ice in front of the net. Tanguay and Pete MacArthur were credited with the assists.

With Abbotsford on the power play, Mikael Backlund got one back at 11:55 to make the score 3-1. Assists went to Jason Jaffray and Carsen Germyn.

But then Jack Skille took the goal back at 17:34 on the power play, pushing Leland Irving from the game. Connelly and Mike Brennan got the helpers.

"We have to come out like this from here on out," Connelly said. "That is the benefit of a pro schedule, you have to come back the next night (after a bad loss). It was good for our team, it was good for all of us."

In the second period, David Ver Der Gulik found the back of the net at 15:15, with help from Garth Murray and John Negrin, and Negrin followed it up at 17:48 to make the score 4-3. Colin Stuart and Jaffray had the assists.

But with the Heat within reach, the Hogs took control. Akim Aliu let out a drive from the point that went under David Shantz for Rockford's fifth goal of the game at 2:07 in the third period. Daryl Boyle and Bryan Bickell factored in the scoring.

Nathan Davis took his turn then at 6:23 with a helper from Bracken Kearns to put the game out of reach for the Heat.

The Hogs took advantage of 47 Abbotsford penalty minutes, finishing 2-for-6 on the advantage. The Heat were 1-for-2 on the power play. Joe Fallon stopped 24 of 27 shots for his second consecutive win against Abbotsford. Irving took the loss with seven saves, while Shantz stopped nine.

Next Home Game: Wednesday, Nov. 18 vs. Texas Stars: The puck drops at 7 p.m. The Rockford IceHogs continue a six-game homestand. The two teams play a total of eight times in 2009-10, three of the meetings happen in November. It’s a Golden Goal Wednesday, meaning if the IceHogs score with 9:10 left on the clock in the third period, one lucky fan will win $10,000. All high school and college students with a valid student ID can purchase the best available seat for just $10 at the MetroCentre's Box Office up to one hour prior to the game with the WXRX Student Rush program.

STARS OVERPOWER, SHUT OUT ICEHOGS

Photo by Greg Hamil
Texas improves to 7-0-1-1 in last nine, Hogs drop third of four

Rockford, Ill.- The Texas Stars made the most of their trip north, shutting out the Rockford IceHogs 4-0 on Friday at the Rockford MetroCentre.

It is the first shut out at home since March 21, 2008 against Quad City, ending a string of 52 straight games.

“We’re having a tough time right now getting the first goal,” said IceHogs Center Bracken Kearns. “You have to work hard for those breaks and we’re just not getting them right now.”

After a scoreless first period, Scott McCulloch scored his second of the season to put the Stars up 1-0. Raymond Sawada picked up a wide-open McCulloch on the opposite side of the ice at 5:10 to light the lamp. Travis Morin was also credited with an assist.

“It seemed like tonight, maybe we score the first goal and it’s a different story,” Kearns said. “I don’t think they really took it to us. We have to figure out a way to score those ugly goals like they did.”

Warren Peters started a three-goal scoring run in the third with his first of the season at 8:12 with assists from Mathieu Beaudoin and Perttu Lindgren.

Colton Sceviour continued the rally putting the puck in the net at 10:32 with the help of Lindgren and McCulloch.

Then Sergei Korostin finished the Hogs off with a feed from Peters at 12:25.

“Good teams win those third periods and are able to come back and we’re not there yet,” Kearns said. “You have to have those big third periods and big comebacks to build your confidence and we’re just lagging right now.”

Brent Krahn continued his dominant play, stopping 32 shots for his first shut out of the season, while Corey Crawford dropped to 5-7-1, having made 23 saves in the losing effort.

Rockford was without a power play goal in three attempts and Texas was held scoreless in four man advantages.

Next Home Game: Friday, Nov. 14 vs. Abbotsford Heat. The puck is set to drop at 7:05 p.m. The first 2,500 fans into the building will get a commemorative Mike Peck bobblehead courtesy of Dental Dimensions, 23 WIFR and 1330 AM WNTA. For tickets call (815) 968-5222 or visit www.metrocentre.com.

SATURDAY'S GAME FEATURES RED CROSS, SKATE WITH THE HOGS

Fans can send messages to soldiers through Red Cross’ video program

Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs and Rock River Chapter of the American Red Cross have added several exciting opportunities for IceHogs fans this weekend.

All fans who buy tickets to Saturday’s game against the Abbotsford Heat at the Rockford MetroCentre through the American Red Cross will be entered to win a seat upgrade to the MetroCentre’s Executive Suites. The game starts at 7:05 p.m.

Additionally, a portion of the proceeds from those tickets sold will benefit the Rock River Chapter of the American Red Cross. For information about this program, call the Red Cross at (815) 963-8471 or check out their ad on the right side of the front page of icehogs.com. To buy tickets for Saturday’s game, go to this page and enter “REDCROSS” into the promo code box.

At Saturday’s game, The Red Cross will have a computer and camera that will allow fans to send messages to soldiers serving overseas as well as crafts and games for kids in the upper concourse.

The night will also feature the IceHogs’ first Skate With The Hogs of the 2009-10 season. Bring your ice skates to get on the MetroCentre ice after the game. The team will be on hand to talk with fans and sign autopgraphs. Don’t have ice skates? Come to the endzone area to get autographs and meet the IceHogs players.

The first 2,500 people into the building will also pick up a Mike Peck Bobblehead, presented by Dental Dimensions, 23 WIFR and 1330 AM WNTA.

Next Home Game: Friday, Nov. 13 vs. Texas Stars. The puck is set to drop at 7:05 p.m. The first 2,500 fans into the building will get an IceHogs cape courtesy of Rasmussen College and The Eagle. For tickets call (815) 968-5222 or visit www.metrocentre.com.

WIN SUITE TICKETS AT FELDCO, YOUTH JERSEY NIGHT MOVES

Youth Jersey Night has moved to Jan. 15

Rockford, Ill.- Want to see an IceHogs game from the Executive Suites? The Rockford IceHogs and Feldco have announced the details of the 2009-10 Feldco VIP Contest.

The winner will get four tickets to the Feldco Executive Suite on the Friday, Jan. 15 game against the Houston Aeros, four IceHogs Youth Jerseys presented by Feldco and an opportunity to meet an IceHogs player as well as drop the first puck at the game.

Kids 12 and under can register for the 2009-10 Feldco VIP Contest at the Feldco Showroom at 747 S. Perryville Road starting on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2009 and ending Jan. 9, 2010.

The first four kids to register to win will pick up an IceHogs team autographed Youth Jersey from Feldco and the first 15 kids to register will get an autographed Mike Peck Bobblehead.

The team also announced on Wednesday that the IceHogs Youth Jersey, presented by Feldco, giveaway has moved to the Jan. 15 game. To accommodate this move, the IceHogs Winter Hat originally scheduled for that night will no longer be given away. The IceHogs will distribute 1,500 posters on Nov. 28 against the Abbotsford Heat as that night’s giveaway.

For more information about the IceHogs upcoming giveaways, visit the IceHogs' Promotional Calendar. For questions about this or other promotions, call the IceHogs office at (815) 986-6465.

Next Home Game: Friday, Nov. 13 vs. Texas Stars. The puck is set to drop at 7:05 p.m. The first 2,500 fans into the building will get an IceHogs cape courtesy of Rasmussen College and The Eagle. For tickets call (815) 968-5222 or visit www.metrocentre.com.

EWING REASSGINED TO TOLEDO

Photo by Ryan Pfieffer
BU grad posted two points in nine games for Hogs

Rockford, Ill.- Chicago Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliations Mark Bernard announced Wednesday that the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League have reassigned right winger Bryan Ewing to the team’s ECHL affiliate, the Toledo Walleye.

The second-year player, who turns 24 on Nov. 23, posted a goal and an assist, four PIMs and a minus-2 rating in nine games with the Hogs. Ewing also played two games last season with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, registering four PIMs in three games. His AHL debut with the Penguins was Feb. 8 against Norfolk.

The 2008 Boston University graduate was Rookie of the Year last season in the ECHL while skating in his home town of Wheeling. Ewing led the Nailers with 91 points (43g-48a), good for second in the league and tops among rookies, despite playing in just 67 games.

Ewing played all four years at BU and led the Terriers with 26 assists during his senior season of 2007-08. He made his debut as a freshman Oct. 8 against Miami (Ohio) University and had four game-winning goals as a junior. He amassed 108 points (48g-60a) and 122 PIMs in 143 collegiate games.

Next Home Game: Friday, Nov. 13 vs. Texas Stars. The puck is set to drop at 7:05 p.m. The first 2,500 fans into the building will get an IceHogs cape courtesy of Rasmussen College and The Eagle. For tickets call (815) 968-5222 or visit www.metrocentre.com.

ROCKFORD TAKES TWO OF THREE IN WEEK 6

IceHogs begin six game homestand on Friday

Week 6 Recap
After playing 12 of their first 17 games on the road, the Rockford IceHogs finally get a homestand. Rockford ended the road stretch with a win on Saturday in Abbotsford, ending a six-game road winless streak. The IceHogs also knocked off San Antonio during Week 6 at the Rockford MetroCentre, where they will play their next six games.

Week 6 Results
Wednesday, Nov. 4: San Antonio 3 vs. Rockford 5
Friday, Nov. 6: Rockford 2 at Abbotsford 4
Saturday, Nov. 7: Rockford 2 at Abbotsford 1

Week 7 Schedule
Friday, Nov. 13 vs. Texas, 7:05 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 14 vs. Abbotsford, 7:05 p.m.

Bacon Bits:
- Rockford ended a team AHL record seven-game road winless streak on Saturday with their 2-1 win at Abbotsford

- Winger Nathan Davis recorded his sixth goal of the season on Saturday in his 15th game played

- Davis tallied five goals during his rookie campaign in 2008-09, playing in 49 contests for Rockford

- Rookie defenseman Brian Connelly leads the IceHogs with 39 shots on goal

- Rockford won its first game this season on Saturday when tied after a period as they were scoreless with Abbotsford after the first frame

- Goalie Joe Fallon has a .963 save percentage over his last three appearances, turning away 79 of 82 shots faced

- Rockford has scored two or less goals in seven of their past eight games

- The IceHogs will begin their second longest homestand on Friday, a six game stretch spanning until Nov. 25

- Rockford has played an AHL high 12 games on the road so far

- Jassen Cullimore scored his first AHL goal since Nov. 20, 1999 on Wednesday, nearly a 10-year span between AHL
goals

- Cullimore’s last AHL goal came while skating with Providence at Lowell

- Winger Bryan Bickell was reassigned back to the IceHogs on Saturday

Hot Hog Week 6:
The IceHogs second year goaltender Joe Fallon was nearly perfect in his two outings for Rockford in Abbotsford during Week 6. In relief on Friday night Fallon turned away all 26 shots he faced. Fallon followed up Friday’s performance with a 31 save outing in helping Rockford to a 2-1 win over the Heat, Fallon’s second career AHL win.

Upcoming Games:
Friday, Nov. 13 vs. Texas Stars: The puck is set to drop at 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs and Stars meet for the first time in 2009-10. The first 2,500 fans into the building will get an IceHogs cape courtesy of Rasmussen College and The Eagle. Overall, the Hogs and Stars will face off eight times this season.

Saturday, Nov. 14 vs. Abbotsford Heat: Game time is slated for 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs and Heat meet for third time this season, but first in Rockford. The first 2,500 fans to the game will pick up a Mike Peck bobblehead courtesy of Dental Dimensions, 23 WIFR and 1330 AM, WNTA.

The IceHogs Broadcasting Network:
Rockford IceHogs fans can catch all of the IceHogs regular and post-season games on the Hogs flagship radio station Rockford’s Voice, WNTA-AM 1330 and 30 regular season games on ESPN Radio 1380-AM, WTJK. Fans can also watch and listen to the Hogs on the World Wide Web with AHL Live! Visit the IceHogs Web site (icehogs.com) and click on the “click here to watch the AHL Live” icon, and for just $7, you can catch all of the IceHogs action on your computer. Also, fans with Comcast Cable television can tune in to Channel 57 for all the IceHogs hockey action this season. The broadcast begins with the Pregame Show 30 minutes before the puck drops. Make sure to give your opinion during the Comcast Post-Game Call-In Show following each game at (815) 874-8255.

Hog Talk Tonight At Cousin’s Bar and Grill:
Join WXRX’s Jim Stone from 6-7 p.m. tonight at Cousin’s Bar and Grill as he chats with IceHogshead coach Bill Peters as well as winger and team captain Jake Dowell and goalie Joe Fallon. Cousin’s is located on the corner of East State St. and Perryville in Rockford, and take advantage of some great food and Bud Light specials. If you can’t make it out to Cousin’s, tune into 1330 AM, WNTA.

Tickets Now On Sale!
IceHogs individual game tickets are now on sale! Call (815) 968-5222 to reserve your seats for any IceHogs regular season game during the 2009-10 season. Tickets can also be purchased in person at the Rockford MetroCentre Box Office in downtown Rockford, at Hog Headquarters inside Cherryvale Mall or on the Web at www.metrocentre.com. Tickets start at just $10.

FALLON SLAMS THE DOOR ON HOGS ROAD WOES

Photo by Jeff Bough
Hogs goalie turns away 32 shots in the win

Abbotsford, B.C.- Joe Fallon was almost perfect in Abbotsford. The Rockford IceHogs puckstopper came within a minute of his first career AHL shutout, but turned away 32 Heat shots to help the IceHogs stymie Abbotsford 2-1 at the Abbotsford Entertainment and Sports Centre.

With the win, Rockford ended a seven-game road winless streak (0-6-0-1) and now won’t have to play away from the Rockford MetroCentre until Nov. 27.

Rockford and Abbotsford skated to a scoreless first period on Saturday. Fallon faced 11 Heat shots and blocked them all while Leland Irving turned away all nine Rockford chances. The IceHogs failed to score on two first period power plays.

In the second period Nathan Davis would give Rockford the 1-0 lead. Davis picked up a Jake Dowell centering pass and knocked it off the glove of Irving and in for his sixth goal of the season at 12:12. Matt Keith also assisted on the goal.

Evan Brophey extended the IceHogs lead to 2-0 with a 5-on-3 power play goal. Brophey hammered in a Mark Cullen pass for his second tally of the season at 19:08. Pete MacArthur also figured in with an assist.

Abbotsford staged a mini-comeback in the third period to cut the IceHogs lead down to 2-1. While on a power play, Mikael Backlund shelved his sixth goal of the season at 19:00 of the third period.

That was all that the Heat could muster on Fallon and the IceHogs. Fallon came in relief of Corey Crawford on Friday night and turned away all 26 shots faced and blocked 58 of 59 shots overall on the weekend.

Next Home Game: Friday, Nov. 13 vs. Texas Stars. The puck is set to drop at 7:05 p.m. The first 2,500 fans into the building will get an IceHogs cape courtesy of Rasmussen College and The Eagle. For tickets call (815) 968-5222 or visit www.metrocentre.com.

HEAT TOO HOT FOR HOGS

Rockford drops their seventh straight road game

Abbotsford, B.C.- A 3-0 deficit was too much for the Rockford IceHogs to climb out of on Friday night. The Abbotsford Heat skated away with a 4-2 win at the Abbotsford Entertainment and Sports Centre.

A pair of quick strike goals put the IceHogs in a 2-0 hole in the first period on Friday. Cam Cunning picked up his first goal of the season when beat Corey Crawford glove side at 14:06 with a helper from Brett Palin.

Jamie Lundmark came right back and made it 2-0. Lundmark redirected a Gord Baldwin slapshot past Crawford at 14:25 to extend the Heat lead.

Another flurry of goals to begin the second period put Abbotsford on top 4-1. Garth Murray began the lamp lighting when he fired his second goal of the season past Crawford shorthanded, set up by David Vander Gulik :47 into the period.

Rockford would hop on the board just 15 seconds later with a Pete MacArthur power play tally. MacArthur knocked his first goal of the season past Leland Irving at 1:02 with assists from Evan Brophey and Daryl Boyle.

But Abbotsford responded to take their three goal lead back. Jason Jaffrey blew his sixth goal of the season past Crawford, chasing him from the game, at 2:08 of the middle frame.

In the third period Bracken Kearns would cut the IceHogs deficit back down to a pair. Kearns picked up a Danny Bois centering feed and jammed it past Irving at 6:25 making it 4-2 Heat.

Joe Fallon replaced Crawford early in the second period and was outstanding in goal. The second year goalie turned away all 26 shots against including a highlight film glove save on Jaffray in the third period.

Fallon’s performance wasn’t enough however, as Irving made 33 saves on 35 Rockford shots in the win. The Hogs finished 1-5 on the power play while holding the Heat to 0-4.

Next Home Game: Friday, Nov. 13 vs. Texas Stars. The puck is set to drop at 7:05 p.m. The first 2,500 fans into the building will get an IceHogs cape courtesy of Rasmussen College and The Eagle. For tickets call (815) 968-5222 or visit www.metrocentre.com.

BICKELL RECALLED TO CHICAGO

Photo by Jim Orlando
Blackhawks Recall Bickell From Rockford

Chicago, Ill.-The Chicago Blackhawks have recalled left wing Bryan Bickell from the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs.

Bickell, 23, has appeared in one game with the Blackhawks this season, posting five hits in 6:46 of action during Chicago’s 3-2 loss at the Detroit Red Wings on Oct. 8. He also recorded four penalty minutes in three preseason games with the Blackhawks in North America before dishing out an assist in the team’s 9-2 win over HC Davos in Zurich, Switzerland on September 28. Overall, Bickell has notched two goals in eight career regular-season games with the Blackhawks over parts of three seasons (2006-07; 2007-08 and 2009-10).

The Orono, Ontario, native ranks third on Rockford with 26 penalty minutes, shares third with four goals and fourth with six points in 14 AHL tilts this season. He collected 14 points (6G, 8A) and 60 penalty minutes in 42 contests with Rockford during the 2008-09 regular season before tying for the team lead with two assists in four postseason tilts.

Chicago’s third choice, 41st overall, in the 2004 National Hockey League Entry Draft, Bickell has appeared in 177 career AHL regular-season contests with the Norfolk Admirals (2006-07) and IceHogs (2007-09) since turning pro in 2006, registering 39 goals, 45 assists, 84 points and 204 penalty minutes.

Prior to turning pro, Bickell spent four seasons in the Ontario Hockey League with the Ottawa 67’s and Windsor Spitfires, notching 190 points (94G, 96A) and 235 penalty minutes in 242 career regular-season outings.

Next Home Game: Friday, Nov. 13 vs. Texas Stars. The puck is set to drop at 7:05 p.m. The first 2,500 fans into the building will get an IceHogs cape courtesy of Rasmussen College and The Eagle.

HOGS HANG ON FOR 5-3 WIN OVER SAN ANTONIO

Hogs end five-game losing streak (0-4-0-1) with win over San Antonio

Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs needed offense and got it on Wednesday from five different shooters as the Hogs took a 5-3 win over the San Antonio Rampage at the Rockford MetroCentre.

"There are tons of ups and downs through the season," said winger Rob Klinkhammer. "But hopefully that bad luck is behind us."

The Hogs took a 3-1 lead into the third period, but the Rampage would not go away, as the two teams traded a couple of goals in the last four minutes of the game. Defenseman Jassen Cullimore finally closed the door with an empty-netter from the neutral zone at 19:26 to give Rockford the win.

In the first period, Klinkhammer found a loose puck behind the net, bounced it off Josh Tordjman and into the net at 3:30 to put the Hogs up 1-0. Mark Cullen and Richard Petiot were credited with the assists.

Then Chad Kolarik evened the score at 10:41 with assists from Brett MacLean and Kevin Porter to end a San Antonio scoreless stretch that spanned four games.

But then just a short time later, Bracken Kearns found a wide-open Akim Aliu in front of the net to give Rockford the lead back at 11:46. Daryl Boyle also has an assist.

In the second period, Bryan Bickel added some insurance on the power play with his fourth goal of the season at 3:29. Klinkhammer and Cullen had the assists.

The third period was quiet until San Antonio struck with a goal at 16:31 by Kyle Turris, with assists by Viktor Tikhonov and Matt Beleskey. Turris stole the puck in the Rockford zone, made a great move on Corey Crawford and posted his fifth goal of the season.

Rockford quickly answered with a goal of their own at 18:03. Cullen took the team lead in goals with his sixth of the season, a drive past Tordjman to give Rockford a more comfortable lead. Jack Skille was credited with the assist.

The Rampage fought back with yet another goal at 18:48 by Kevin Porter with assists from Sean Sullivan and Jeff Hoggan. But then Cullimore closed the door unassisted with his first of the season.

Rockford ended a streak of 18 straight power plays without a goal in the second frame, finishing the contest 1-for-6 on the advantage. San Antonio was without a power play goal in five attempts.

The Rampage out shot the IceHogs 33-31, with Crawford finishing with 30 saves. Tordjman had 26.

Next Home Game: Friday, Nov. 13 vs. Texas Stars. The puck is set to drop at 7:05 p.m. The first 2,500 fans into the building will get an IceHogs cape courtesy of Rasmussen College and The Eagle.

CARLSSON REASSIGNED TO TOLEDO

Rockford, Ill.- Chicago Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliations Mark Bernard announced on Tuesday that defenseman Jonathan Carlsson has been reassigned from the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League to the Toledo Walleye (ECHL).

Carlsson, 21, has appeared in six games for Rockford in his first season in North America. The Uppsala, Sweden native has been held scoreless in those games while recording six penalty minutes. The young blue liner was drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft as the 162nd pick overall (Round 6).

He skated in a career high 55 games with Brynas IF Gavle in the Swedish Elite League in 2008-09, notching an assist and 78 penalty minutes. In 109 games at the professional level, Carlsson has notched seven points (3g-4a) and 119 penalty minutes.

Next Home Game: Wednesday, Nov. 4 vs. San Antonio Rampage. The puck is set to drop at 7:05 p.m. Super Fan Cameron Hughes is back, presented by Rock Valley College, Nicholson Hardware, WXRX, Bob FM and 23 WIFR, to cause a general ruckus. If the IceHogs score with 9:10 left on the clock in the third period, one fan in attendance will win $10,000 with the IceHogs Golden Goal Promotion. It's also a WXRX Student Rush night where high school and college students with a valid ID will get the best available seat for $10 after 6 p.m. at the MetroCentre Box Office.

HOGS OFFENSE STAGNATES, PICK UP ONE POINT IN WEEK 5

Photo by Ross Dettman
11/02/2009 2:28 PM - Rockford faces San Antonio before making first ever trip to British Columbia in Week 6

Week 5 Recap
The Rockford IceHogs’s offense took a nose dive in Week 5, recording only five goals in four games and picking up only one point. The Hogs are stuck in a five-game winless streak (0-4-0-1) and will look to break out against West Division rival San Antonio on Wednesday and then make their first ever trip to Abbotsford to play the Heat in a weekend set.

Week 5 Schedule
Wednesday, Oct. 28: Rockford 2 at Chicago 3 SO
Friday, Oct. 30: Rockford 1 vs. Milwaukee 2
Saturday, Oct. 31: Milwaukee 2 at Rockford 1
Sunday, Nov. 1: Rockford 1 at Chicago 3

Week 6 Schedule
Wednesday, Nov. 4 vs. San Antonio, 7:05 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 6 at Abbotsford, 9:30 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 7 at Abbotsford, 8 p.m.

Bacon Bits:
-Rockford will play seven of its next ten games in the Rockford MetroCentre.

-Rockford is 3-1-0-0 at home.

-Winger Brian Ewing recorded his first American Hockey League assist on Nov. 1 against the Chicago Wolves.

-After having played Milwaukee three times in the past two weeks, the Hogs won’t face the Admirals again until Dec. 26.

-Center Bracken Kearns played his 200th career AHL game on Sunday.

-Goalie Corey Crawford recorded his first assist since Oct. 24, 2008 against Norfolk on Friday against the Milwaukee Admirals.

-He also appeared in nine straight games for the IceHogs, tying for the third longest streak of his career.

-The IceHogs lost three of four games this week by one point after starting the season 1-0-1-1 in games decided by a single goal.

-After the first month of the season, the IceHogs have yet to win a divisional matchup (0-4-1-1) away from the MetroCentre.

-This is the first time the IceHogs have been two games below .500 since joining the AHL.

-Rockford has failed to score on the power play for five straight games (0-for-17).

-They are 0-4-0-1 in those games.

Photo by Scott Paulus

Hot Hog Week 4:
After being held to one point in Rockford’s first nine contests, winger Bryan Bickell notched points in three of the four games during Week 5. Bickell tapped in the IceHogs’ first goal and had an assist in Rockford’s 3-2 shootout loss at Chicago. He followed that performance up with an assist on Saturday in the IceHogs 2-1 loss against Milwaukee and he tallied the Hogs lone goal in Sunday’s 3-1 loss at Chicago.

Upcoming Games:
Wednesday, Nov. 4 vs. San Antonio Rampage: The IceHogs welcome the San Antonio Rampage into the Rockford MetroCentre for their first visit of 2009-10. The puck is set to drop at 7:05 p.m. Super Fan Cameron Hughes is back, presented by Rock Valley College, Nicholson Hardware, WXRX, Bob FM and 23 WIFR, to cause a general ruckus. Also if the IceHogs score with 9:10 left on the clock in the third period, one fan in attendance will win $10,000. And it’s a WXRX Student Rush night where high school and college students with a valid ID will get the best available seat for $10 after 6 p.m. at the MetroCentre Box Office.

Friday, Nov. 6 at Abbotsford Heat: The IceHogs make their first visit to the Abbotsford Entertainment & Sports Centre to face the Abbotsford Heat in back-to-back games. The puck drops at 9:30 p.m. central time.

Saturday, Nov. 7 at Abbotsford Heat: Rockford finishes off their trip to the western-most city in the American Hockey League to face Abbotsford at 8 p.m. central time. The Hogs and Heat will play a total of four times in 2009-10, two in each town.

The IceHogs Broadcasting Network:
Rockford IceHogs fans can catch all of the IceHogs regular and post-season games on the Hogs flagship radio station Rockford’s Voice, WNTA-AM 1330 and 30 regular season games on ESPN Radio 1380-AM, WTJK. Fans can also watch and listen to the Hogs on the World Wide Web with AHL Live! Visit the IceHogs Web site (icehogs.com) and click on the “click here to watch the AHL Live” icon, and for just $7, you can catch all of the IceHogs action on your computer. Also, fans with Comcast Cable television can tune in to Channel 57 for all the IceHogs hockey action this season. The broadcast begins with the Pregame Show 30 minutes before the puck drops. Make sure to give your opinion during the Comcast Post-Game Call-In Show following each game at (815) 874-8255.

Hog Talk Tonight At Cousin’s Bar and Grill:
Join Voice of the IceHogs Mike Peck from 6-7 p.m. tonight at Cousin’s Bar and Grill as he chats with IceHogs president and general manager Mark Bernard as well as defensemen Richard Petiot and Dave Phillips. Cousin’s is located on the corner of East State St. and Perryville in Rockford, and take advantage of some great food and Bud Light specials. If you can’t make it out to Cousin’s, tune into 1330 AM, WNTA.

Tickets Now On Sale!
IceHogs individual game tickets are now on sale! Call (815) 968-5222 to reserve your seats for any IceHogs regular season game during the 2009-10 season. Tickets can also be purchased in person at the Rockford MetroCentre Box Office in downtown Rockford, at Hog Headquarters inside Cherryvale Mall or on the Web at www.metrocentre.com. Tickets start at just $10.

Get Your IceHogs Widget Here!

You can get your very own IceHogs Widget for your site or blog.  Simple go to: http://www.widgetbox.com/widget/rockford-icehogs and grab the code!

LATE CHELIOS MARKER KNOCKS OFF ICEHOGS

Hogs drop fifth straight game

Rosemont, Ill.- Special teams are beginning to turn into the Rockford IceHogs Achilles heal. Rockford coughed up a late goal on Sunday with the Chicago Wolves on the power play and fell 3-1 to the Wolves at the Allstate Arena.

On the advantage, defenseman Chris Chelios blasted his first goal of the season past Joe Fallon from the right circle to break a 1-1 tie at 15:53. The Wolves put the finishing touches on their victory when Arturs Kulda buried an empty-net goal at 19:46.

Rockford failed to score on the power play for the fifth straight game (0-5) and for the second straight night, their penalty kill allowed the game winning marker in the third period. Chicago finished 1-3 on the power play.

Chicago grabbed the early 1-0 lead on Sunday. Joey Crabb ripped home his third goal of the season from between the circles, beating Fallon glove side at 3:43 for the 1-0 lead. Kevin Doell and Riley Holzapfel had the assists.

In the second period Bryan Bickell and the IceHogs would tie it at 1-1. From almost the exact same spot on the ice as Crabb’s marker, Bickell snapped off his third goal of the season at 8:12. Jake Dowell and Bryan Ewing marked assists on the goal.

Fallon played solid in goal for the IceHogs making 22 saves in the loss. Drew MacIntyre made 22 saves as well in picking up the win.

Next Home Game: Wednesday, Nov. 4 vs. San Antonio Rampage. The puck is set to drop at 7:05 p.m. Super Fan Cameron Hughes is back, presented by Rock Valley College, Nicholson Hardware, WXRX, Bob FM and 23 WIFR, to cause a general ruckus. Also if the IceHogs score with 9:10 left on the clock in the third period, one fan in attendance will win $10,000. It's also a WXRX Student Rush night where high school and college students with a valid ID will get the best available seat for $10 after 6 p.m. at the MetroCentre Box Office.