THREE UNANSWERED GOALS HAUNT HOGS

By: Mike Peck

Photo by Greg Hamil
10/30/2010 4:00 PM - Rockford drops 3-2 decision in Chicago

Rosemont, Ill.- Despite a solid first period, Rockford wasn’t able to overcome the Chicago Wolves at the Allstate Arena on Saturday, falling 3-2.

Tied 2-2 midway through the third period, Chicago would grab the lead with a power-play goal at 10:48. Defenseman Mike Siklenka fired Darren Haydar centering pass past Alec Richards as he tried to get back between the posts for his second goal of the season.

Rockford had the potential game-tying goal waved off with less than 20-seconds remaining in regulations as the referee ruled that Jeremy Morin knocked the puck in with a high stick.

The IceHogs tallied two first-period goals following successful penalty kills to grab a 2-0 lead after 20 minutes. Seconds after a Kyle Hagel penalty expired, Brandon Pirri finished off a Nick Leddy touch pass at 13:01 for his third goal of the season and a 1-0 Rockford lead.

Then after Rockford fought off a Garnet Exelby penalty, Leddy notched his first career AHL goal. The rookie defenseman picked up a Brian Connelly pass and blasted his first marker of the season past Peter Mannino at 17:08.

The second period belonged to Chicago as the Wolves netted a pair of goals of their own to tie the game at 2-2. Nigel Dawes finished off a text book two-on-one breakaway with Daren Haydar at 13:21 to put Chicago on the board at 13:21 of the second period.

Again in transition, Jamie Sifers tied the game at 2-2. Alec Richards blocked down Jared Ross’ initial shot but Sifers beat Richards to the loose puck and knocked in his second goal of the season at 18:57.

Rockford was outshot in the contest 29-24 and Richards took the loss after making 26 saves. The IceHogs finished the contest 0-4 on the power play while the Wolves went 1-5.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Nov. 6 vs. Manitoba Moose. Game time is slated for 7:05 p.m. The first 2,500 fans to the game will receive an IceHogs baseball cap courte¬sy of Pepsi, WXRX and WIFR. For tickets call (815) 968-5222 or visit metrocentre.com.

POTULNY RECALLED BY THE BLACKHAWKS

By: Adam Rogowin

10/30/2010 1:29 PM - Chicago, Ill.- The Chicago Blackhawks have recalled forward Ryan Potulny from the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs.

Potulny, 26, shares second on the team with four assists and third with six points (2G, 4A) in eight games with Rockford this season. The Grand Forks, North Dakota, native established career-bests with 15 goals, 17 assists and 32 points in a career-high 64 regular-season tilts with the Edmonton Oilers during the 2009-10 campaign.

Signed as a free agent by Chicago on Sept. 9, 2010, Potulny has posted 22 goals and 27 assists in 116 career NHL contests with Philadelphia (2005-08) and Edmonton (2008-10). Prior to turning pro he played three collegiate seasons at the University of Minnesota where he was a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award in his final year with the Gophers.

Potulny will wear jersey number 16 on Saturday night when the Blackhawks visit the Minnesota Wild at Xcel Energy Center at 7:00 P.M. (CT).

Poyulny is the fifth player to get recalled from Rockford to Chicago this season joining Brandon Pirri, Jassen Cullimore, Evan Brophey and Ben Smith. Rockford has had 28 different players recalled to the Blackhawks over the past four seasons.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Nov. 6 vs. Manitoba Moose. Game time is slated for 7:05 p.m. The first 2,500 fans to the game will receive an IceHogs baseball cap courtesy of Pepsi, WXRX and WIFR.

ROCKFORD LOOKS FOR RARE ROAD WIN IN CHICAGO

By: Mike Peck

Photo by Greg Hamil
10/30/2010 8:00 AM - Hogs and Wolves battle at 7 p.m.

Rosemont, Ill.- Road wins in the Rockford IceHogs-Chicago Wolves all-time season series don’t come around very often. In 31 regular season matchups between the Hogs and Wolves, the road team has returned home with a win just six times.

Tonight the IceHogs look to buck that trend when they travel to the Allstate Arena to take on their West Division rivals at 7 p.m.

The game can be heard on 1330 AM WNTA, www.wnta.com or on Comcast Cable Channel-57 in Rockford. The game can be viewed on www.ahllive.com.

Rockford claimed the first game in the 10 game season set last Saturday at the MetroCentre with a 4-3 overtime come-from-behind victory. The IceHogs are coming off of a shootout defeat on Wednesday against the Texas Stars.

Tonight’s game is the first of five at the Allstate Arena on the season for Rockford. The IceHogs have notched one regular season victory away from home against the Wolves in each of their first three AHL seasons.

BLACKHAWKS RECALL BEN SMITH FROM ROCKFORD

By: Adam Rogowin

Photo by Jim Orlando
10/29/2010 9:27 AM - Chicago, Ill.- The Chicago Blackhawks announced on Friday that the National Hockey League club has recalled winger Ben Smith from the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League.

Smith, 22, has recorded four points (G, 3A) in eight tilts with Rockford this year in his first full professional season, including netting the IceHogs’ only shorthanded goal of the campaign. The Avon, Connecticut, native was named the Most Outstanding Player of the 2010 Frozen Four while helping Boston College to the 2010 NCAA Championship and serving as an alternate captain in his senior season with the Eagles.

The Blackhawks will host the Edmonton Oilers at the United Center on Friday, October 29 at 7:30 P.M.

Smith is the fourth player to get recalled from Rockford to Chicago this season joining Brandon Pirri, Jassen Cullimore and Evan Brophey. Rockford has had 27 different players recalled to the Blackhawks over the past four seasons.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Nov. 6 vs. Manitoba Moose. Game time is slated for 7:05 p.m. The first 2,500 fans to the game will receive an IceHogs baseball cap courtesy of Pepsi, WXRX and WIFR.

STARS OUTSHINE THE HOGS 4-3 IN A SHOOTOUT

By: Matt Cashen

Photo by Greg Hamil
10/27/2010 5:20 PM - Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs fell victim to the Texas Stars 4-3 in a shootout on Wednesday at the Rockford MetroCentre.

The Hogs had a chance for their second overtime win in as many games but an Evan Brophey shot rang off the post. Brandon Pirri and Kyle Beach beat Brent Krahn in the shootout but that wasn't enough as Colton Sceviour, Tomas Vincour and Mathieu Tousignant added markers to give Texas the 4-3 win in the nine round affair.

The IceHogs found themselves trailing early. A turnover inside the IceHogs defensive zone led to Cody Chupp taking possession of the puck and finding Tristan King with a pass, King shot a hard wrist shot past Hannu Toivonen at 7:48 in the first period.

Then, the IceHogs came back and tied it up at 1-1 with a power play tally, their first goal in the first period against Krahn in nine games. Defenseman Brian Connelly and Jeff Taffe were rotating the puck around when they found Pirri alone in the face-off circle. Pirri picked up the feed and buried his second goal of the season at 9:01 in the first period.

Texas took the lead back at 15:55 in the first frame when Sceviour found Aaron Gagnon along the right board. Gagnon took the pass and sent the puck to the back of the net to put the Stars up 2-1. Tousignant also chipped in with an assist.

Early in the second period, the Hogs took advantage of their third power play to knot it back up at 2-2. Ryan Potulny dished the puck to Beach behind the net. Beach then flipped it for Taffe to tap in his third goal of the season at 2:41 in the second period.

Just after time expired on the Simon Danis-Pepin high sticking penalty, the Stars were able to retain possession in the IceHogs zone. Fabion Brunnstrom received a pass just right of the net, on the goal line. He then sent a crisp one timer pass to Maxime Fortunus who placed it past Toivonen at 7:45 to go up 3-2.

The IceHogs would respond quickly, Beach worked the puck into the Stars zone, faked back to center and used the space to get to the outside of reaching Texas defender and tucked a wrist shot in on the right side of Krahn at 8:58 to tie the game at 3-3. Nick Leddy picked up an assist on the play.

The Hogs converted on 2-of-3 power play chances after coming into the game only converting in 2-of-20 man advantages at the MetroCentre. Texas was held off the board with the extra man in four chances.

Toivonen was handed the loss after turning away 28 shots and stopping 6-of-9 shots in the shootout. Krahn picked up his fourth win of the season stopping 28 IceHogs attempts and kicking away 7-of-9 chances on the shootout.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Nov. 6 vs. Manitoba Moose. Game time is slated for 7:05 p.m. The first 2,500 fans to the game will receive an IceHogs baseball cap courtesy of Pepsi, WXRX and WIFR.

TACO BELL DOLLAR DAYS KICK OFF WEDNESDAY

By: Matt Cashen

10/26/2010 11:05 AM -
Rockford, Ill.-Dollar beers are making their return to Rockford IceHogs games! The team welcomes the addition of Taco Bell Dollar Days starting on Wednesday, Oct. 27 when the IceHogs take on the Texas Stars at the Rockford MetroCentre at 6:35 p.m.

New for the 2010-11 season, in conjunction with $1 10-ounce Bud Select courtesy of LaMonica Beverage, Taco Bell and WXRX presents Dollar Days for every Wednesday home game this season. Dollar Days include $1 beers, hot dogs, sodas and companion tickets.

Fans can purchase 10-ounce Bud Selects exclusively at the Bud Select Deck located in front of Oink Outfitters, on the MetroCentre concourse during all Wednesday home games.

Also, kids (ages 12 and under) in costume are invited down on the MetroCentre ice after the game to join IceHogs players for trick-or-treating.

The team will be handing out candy and other goodies courtesy of Nestle, Papa Murphy’s, Cadbury, Texas Roadhouse, General Mills, Northern Illinois Bowling Proprietors Association, Pepsi and Frito Lay.

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

For more information on Taco Bell Dollar Days contact the IceHogs at (815) 986-6465.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Nov. 6 vs. Manitoba Moose. Game time is slated for 7:05 p.m. The first 2,500 fans to the game will receive an IceHogs baseball cap courtesy of Pepsi, WXRX and WIFR.

HOGS SPLIT A PAIR OF HOME GAMES IN WEEK 3

By: Mike Peck

Photo by Greg Hamil
10/25/2010 10:28 AM - Two more contests on Week 4 slate

Week 3 Recap
For the second time in 2010-11 the Rockford IceHogs faced a two-game weekend on home ice and for the second time the club split the two contests. A two-goal third period deficit was erased on Saturday against the Wolves to give Rockford their lone win in Week 3 and now the team turns their attention to Week 4 and two more West Division clashes.

Week 3 Results
Friday, Oct. 22: Abbotsford 4 vs. Rockford 1
Saturday, Oct. 23: Chicago 3 vs. Rockford 4 OT

Week 4 Schedule
Wednesday, Oct. 27 vs. Texas, 6:35 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 30 at Chicago, 7 p.m.

Bacon Bits:
Rockford claimed their first-ever overtime win over the Chicago Wolves on Saturday night

The road team has won six of the 31 all-time regular-season meetings between Rockford and Chicago

The IceHogs are 2-3-0-0 when trailing after the second period this season

The team was 4-24-2-0 when trailing after two periods in 2009-10

Evan Brophey became the 26th different IceHogs skater to get recalled to the Blackhawks in Rockford’s AHL era

The center made his NHL debut on Saturday night against Columbus and logged 7:09 of ice time

Defenseman Brian Connelly recorded his first career three-assist game on Saturday against Chicago

Connelly leads Rockford with seven points, all assists

Kyle Hagel leads the AHL with six major penalties

Rockford leads the AHL in penalty minutes per game, averaging 23.0 PIMs per contest

The IceHogs are fifth in the AHL averaging 3.29 goals per contest

Rockford is third in the league in shots against per game, allowing just 26.71 shots per game

Rockford is 3-0-0-0 in games following a loss this season

Hot Hog Week 3:
Rockford’s second year defenseman, Brian Connelly, was in the middle of Rockford’s come from behind overtime victory over the Chicago Wolves on Saturday night, assisting on all three of Rockford’s goals down the stretch, including Igor Makarov’s overtime game winner. The three assist game was the first of Connelly’s career and the blueliner now leads Rockford with seven points on the season, all assists.

Photo by Greg Hamil
Upcoming Games:
Wednesday, Oct. 27 vs. Texas Stars: Puck drop is at 6:35 p.m. Wednesdays are Dollar Days at the MetroCentre and this Wednesday’s is the first of 2010-11. Fans can enjoy one dollar beers, hot dogs, soft drinks and one dollar companion tickets courtesy of Taco Bell and WXRX.

Saturday, Oct. 30 at Chicago Wolves: Game time is 7 p.m. The IceHogs hit the road to face-off against the Chicago Wolves at the Allstate Arena for the first time this season. The game is the second of 10 overall in 2010-11 between the West Division rivals and first of five at the Allstate Arena.

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 in Rockford can tune in to Channel 57 for all the IceHogs hockey action at the MetroCentre this season. All Saturday home game will also be televised on My Network TV digital subchannel 17.2 along with Comcast and Charter Cable channel 16. The broadcast begins with the U.S. Cellular 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.

Bud Light Hog Talk Is Back Tonight At Swilligan’s Pub:
Bud Light Hog Talk returns to Swilligan’s Pub tonight. Swillgan’s Pub is located in downtown Rockford at 200 North Church St. Fans can join Mike Peck from 6-7 p.m. most Mondays as he chats with IceHogs players, coaches and front office members. This week’s guests include IceHogs wingers Evan Brophey and Jeremy Morin along with Chicago Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliations Mark Bernard. Stop by and take advantage of some great food and Bud Light specials. If you can’t make it, 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 2010-11 season. Tickets can also be purchased in person at the Rockford MetroCentre Box Office in downtown Rockford or on the Web at www.metrocentre.com. Tickets start at just $7.

BLACKHAWKS ASSIGN BROPHEY TO ROCKFORD

By: Adam Rogowin

10/25/2010 8:11 AM - Chicago, Ill.-The Chicago Blackhawks have assigned forward Evan Brophey to the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs.

Brophey, 23, made his National Hockey League debut on Saturday night at the United Center, registering one shot on goal, one blocked shot and three hits, and winning 4-of-5 faceoffs in 7:09 of ice time against the Columbus Blue Jackets. In six AHL contests this season the Kitchener, Ontario, native has posted two goals and a +4 plus/minus rating with Rockford. Chicago’s fourth selection (68th overall) in the 2005 National Hockey League Entry Draft has recorded 36 goals and 56 assists over the course of 238 career regular-season AHL tilts with the IceHogs from 2007-10

HOGS STEAL ONE FROM CHICAGO, WIN 4-3 IN OVERTIME

By: Matt Cashen

10/23/2010 7:00 PM - Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs score two goals in the final period and add a tally in overtime to complete the come from behind win, 4-3, over the Chicago Wolves on Saturday at the Rockford MetroCentre.

With time running out in the extra frame, the IceHogs found themselves on the power-play. Ryan Potulny took advantage of the extra man and found Igor Makarov all alone as he chipped in the winner to steal the game from the Wolves. Defenseman Brian Connelly also factored in on the play with an assist, giving him three on the night.

The Wolves came in not having scored a goal in the first period all season, but that all changed when they went on the man advantage early in the first frame Saturday. While on the power-play the Wolves were able to control a faceoff inside the IceHogs zone that eventually went back to the point. Jason Krog blasted his shot past goaltender Hannu Toivonen at 1:45 to put the Wolves up 1-0. Paul Postma and Darren Haydar were credited with assists.

The Wolves extended their lead to 2-0 after a faceoff win inside the IceHogs zone, enabling the Wolves to hold possession. Off the win, a wrist shot from the point got caught up in the skates of Andrew Kozek who then fired his own wrister low and through the legs of Toivonen at 14:32. Boris Valabik and Andre Deveaux were each given the assists.

With the IceHogs shorthanded and down 2-0, a failed attempt by the Wolves to get the puck deep proved to be costly. Rob Klinkhammer was able to hold off the Wolves attempt at the blue line and he quickly sent a pass up to a streaking Ben Smith. With the backchecking pressure by the Wolves nearing closer, Smith quickly raced into the zone where he was able to wrist a shot high over Drew McIntyre at 16:44, putting the IceHogs down just one goal, 2-1.

Chicago got one back and made it 3-1 at 3:16 in the third period when Nigel Dawes registered his first goal of the season. Haydar led the Wolves on a three-on-two rush and dropped it off to Dawes who fired one past Toivonen. Krog picked up his second point of the night with the helper.

The IceHogs responded only a couple minutes later at the 5:04 mark in the third period. Chris DiDomenico pushed down the right side of the ice and fired a pass to Klinkhammer, who lifted it to the back of the net to bring the Hogs within one at 3-2. Connelly also chipped in on the play with an assist.

Then at 11:51 in the third period the IceHogs found themselves on a five-on-three power-play and they capitalized. Connelly held the puck at the point before dishing it off to Ivan Vishnevskiy who one-timed it past MacIntyre to tie the game at 3-3.

The IceHogs pelted MacIntyre with 33 shots as he was tagged with the loss after turning away 29. Toivonen picked up his first win of the season stopping 23 attempts.

Rockford’s power-play finished two-for-eight on the night and Chicago was one-for-six on the man advantage.

Next Home Game: Wednesday, Oct. 27 vs. Texas Stars. Puck drop is at 6:35 p.m. Wednesdays are Dollar Days at the MetroCentre. Fans can enjoy one dollar beers, one dollar hot dogs, one dollar sodas and one dollar companion tickets courtesy of Taco Bell and WXRX.

BROPHEY GETS RECALLED TO CHICAGO

By: Mike Peck
10/23/2010 1:33 PM



Fourth-year center receives first career recall

Chicago, Ill.-The Chicago Blackhawks announced on Saturday that the National Hockey League club has recalled center Evan Brophey from the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League.

Brophey, 23, earns his first career NHL recall. The Kitchener, Ontario native has skated in six games with Rockford in 2010-11 and has chipped in two goals with an assist.

In his fourth season, Brophey is Rockford’s all-time leader in games played in the team’s AHL era with 238. Chicago’s third round selection (#68 overall) in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft, Brophey has 36g-56a-92pts during his AHL stint in Rockford.

Chicago takes on the Columbus Blue Jackets tonight at the United Center at 7:30 p.m.

Brophey is the third player to get recalled from Rockford to Chicago this season joining Brandon Pirri and Jassen Cullimore. Rockford has had 26 different players recalled to the Blackhawks over the past four seasons and have had 31 different alumni play in the NHL overall.

Next Home Game: Wednesday, Oct. 27 vs. Texas Stars. Puck drop is at 6:35 p.m. Wednesdays are Dollar Days at the MetroCentre. Fans can enjoy one dollar beers, one dollar hot dogs, one dollar sodas and one dollar companion tickets courtesy of Taco Bell and WXRX.

HEAT COOL OFF ICEHOGS AND WIN 4-1

By: Adam Weil

10/22/2010 10:34 AM -
Rockford, Ill.- After taking the first two meetings in Abbotsford, the Rockford IceHogs were unable to make it three straight and fell to the Heat 4-1 on Friday night at the Rockford MetroCentre.

Wade Brookbank put the Hogs on the board first when he slapped in his first goal of the season at 6:35 in the first period. Kyle Beach picked up a loose puck and found Brookbank sitting in front of the net. Brookbank picked up the feed and tapped it past a diving Leeland Irving. Shawn Lalonde was also credited with an assist on the play.

Early into the second period the Heat made it 1-1 after Mitch Wahl pushed his way through and moved the puck past Richards and a few IceHogs within the crease at 5:23. Cam Cunning and Keith Seabrook were credited with the assists.

Soon after, the Heat took advantage of a three-on-two to take the lead 2-1 over the IceHogs. Leading the attack, Lance Bouma passed the puck over to Gaelan Patterson who couldn't corral the pass, the puck fell back to the feet of Bouma who moved it to his backhand and found the back of the net at 10:17 in the second period. Seabrook was credited with his second assist of the night.

The Heat extended their lead when Cunning found the back of the net to make it 3-1. Richards fought off a Patterson blast, but Cunning was right there to slip in the rebound at 1:07 in the third period. Josh Meyers also factored in on the play with an assist.

Greg Nemisz all but sealed up the game with his fourth tally of the season at 18:02 in the third period. Patterson was credited with the helper.

Irving picked up the win turning away 27 IceHogs attempts and Richards was handed his first loss of the season stopping 14 shots. Both power play units were ineffective as the Hogs were 0-for-6 and Abbotsford was held off the board in three advantages.

Next Home Game: Friday, Oct. 23 vs. Chicago Wolves. Puck drop is at 7:05 p.m. The first 5,000 fans through the door will pick up an IceHogs refrigerator schedule compliments of Mygofer.com. Following the game, fans are invited to skate with the Hogs. Bring your ice skates and after the game fans can ice skate in the rink with the IceHogs.

HOGS HOME FOR A PAIR OF GAMES THIS WEEKEND

By: Matt Prefontaine

Photo by Ross Dettman
10/21/2010 9:25 AM - The IceHogs return to the friendly confines of the Rockford MetroCentre this weekend for the first two match ups in a three-game home stand this week.

The Abbotsford Heat roll into Rockford Friday for the first time of the 2010-11 season. Puck drop is set for 7:05 p.m. The Hogs look to win their third consecutive game against Abbotsford, after coming off a weekend sweep of the Heat in British Columbia last weekend. The first 1,000 fans into the building will pick up an IceHogs poster courtesy of Comcast, Q98.5 and Medicine Man.

Saturday night sees the IceHogs welcome the West Division rival Chicago Wolves for the first time in 2010-11. Game time is 7:05 p.m.

This is the first of 10 meetings between the two clubs this year. The IceHogs compiled a record of 4-1-0-0 at the MetroCentre against Chicago in 2009-10 and look to dominate the Wolves at home again this season. The first 5,000 fans will receive an IceHogs refrigerator dry erase schedule courtesy of Mygofer.com.

Don’t have your tickets for IceHogs hockey this weekend? Call (815) 968-5222 to reserve your seats for Friday, Saturday or any IceHogs regular season game during the 2010-11 season. Tickets can also be purchased in person at the Rockford MetroCentre Box Office in downtown Rockford or on the Web at www.metrocentre.com. Tickets start at just $7.

LONG-TIME PA ANNOUNCER TO STEP DOWN

By: Chris Etheridge

10/19/2010 9:49 AM - Chris Toltzman has served as PA for IceHogs since inaugural game

Rockford, Ill.-- The Rockford IceHogs, proud affiliates of the Chicago Blackhawks and members of the American Hockey League, announced on Tuesday that long-time Public Address Announcer Chris Toltzman is stepping down from his position with the team.

After 12 years with the team, Toltzman announced his final game on Sunday, Oct. 10, saying he needs to focus more time on his growing video production company. Toltzman has served as the team’s public address announcer since 1999, missing only one game due to a prior commitment and half of a game due to illness.

The IceHogs return to action on Friday at 7:05 p.m. The Abbotsford Heat come to town for their first visit to Rockford in 2010-11. The first 1,000 fans into the building will pick up an IceHogs posters courtesy of Comcast, Q98.5 and Medicine Man.

Then on Saturday, the Chicago Wolves head west for their first of five games at the Rockford MetroCentre. The first 5,000 fans will pick up a refrigerator schedule courtesy of Mygofer.com.

ROCKFORD TAKES TWO OF THREE IN WEEK TWO

By: Adam Weil

Photo courtesy of the Abbotsford Heat
10/18/2010 12:50 PM - The IceHogs followed up opening weekend by winning two of three games on the road in week two. After a loss to the Peoria Rivermen in the middle of the week, the IceHogs rebounded by taking two at Abbotsford against the Heat over the weekend.

Week 2 Results
Tuesday, Oct. 12: Rockford 2 at Peoria 6
Friday, Oct. 15: Rockford 5 at Abbotsford 0
Saturday, Oct. 16: Rockford 4 at Abbotsford 3 SO

Week 3 Schedule
Friday, Oct. 22 vs. Abbotsford, 7:05 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 23 vs. Chicago, 7:05 p.m.

Bacon Bits:
-After beginning the season by allowing eight power play goals on 12 (33.3%) shorthanded situations, Rockford has allowed their opponents to just 1-12 (91.7%) since

-Rockford’s power play is 6-18 (33.3%) over their last three games

-Rookie goalie Alec Richards posted his first career AHL shutout on Friday night in Abbotsford, making 27 saves

-The shutout was the first for Rockford since Nov. 20, 2009 against Chicago (Joe Fallon) and first road blanking since Oct. 10, 2009 at Lake Erie (Corey Crawford)

-Rookie winger Jeremy Morin leads Rockford with three goals on the season and all three have come on the power play

-Morin has a goal in three straight games, two shy of the IceHogs franchise record, last accomplished by Rob Klinkhammer from 12/31/08-1/9/09

-Defenseman Ivan Vishnevskiy has four assists, all coming on the advantage as well

-Vishnevskiy and Brian Connelly have assists in three-straight games

-Rookie center Brandon Pirri has a point in all four games in which he has played so far with Rockford, totaling 1g-3a

-Defenseman Nick Leddy was assigned to Rockford by the Chicago Blackhawks on Sunday

-With Leddy on the IceHogs roster, Rockford now has three 19-year-olds on the roster including Pirri and Morin

-Through five games, 18 of the 21 position players to play in a game for the IceHogs have registered at least one point

Hot Hog Week 2:
Rookie goaltender Alec Richards picked up his first career AHL shutout on Friday, turning away 27 Abbotsford shots in Rockford’s 5-0 win over the Heat. The Robbinsdale, Minn, native then turned away 29 Heat shots, including a shorthanded breakaway attempt from Carter Bancks in overtime, to help knock off the Heat 4-3 in a shootout. Richards now has a three-game winning streak to start the 2010-11 season.

Upcoming Games:
Friday, Oct. 22 vs. Abbotsford Heat: Friday, Oct. 22 vs. Abbotsford Heat: Game time is 7:05 p.m. Rockford match up with Abbotsford for the third straight game, this time in Rockford. The first 1,000 fans into the building will pick up an IceHogs Poster #1 in a series of six, compliments of Comcast, Q98.5 and Medicine Man.

Saturday, Oct. 23 vs. Chicago Wolves: Game time is 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs welcome their West division rivals, the Chicago Wolves, for the first time of the 2010-11 season at the MetroCentre. The game is the first of 10 meetings this year. The first 5,000 fans will relieve an IceHogs refrigerator dry erase schedule courtesy of Mygofer.com

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 in Rockford can tune in to Channel 57 for all the IceHogs hockey action at the MetroCentre this season. All Saturday home game will also be televised on My Network TV digital subchannel 17.2 along with Comcast and Charter Cable channel 16. The broadcast begins with the U.S. Cellular 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.

Bud Light Hog Talk Is Back Tonight At Swilligan’s Pub:
Bud Light Hog Talk returns to Swilligan’s Pub tonight. Swillgan’s Pub is located in downtown Rockford at 200 North Church St. Fans can join Mike Peck from 6-7 p.m. most Mondays as he chats with IceHogs players, coaches and front office members. This week’s guests include IceHogs wingers Ben Smith, Kyle Hagel and assistant coach Ted Dent. Stop by and take advantage of some great food and Bud Light specials. If you can’t make it, 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 2010-11 season. Tickets can also be purchased in person at the Rockford MetroCentre Box Office in downtown Rockford or on the Web at www.metrocentre.com. Tickets start at just $7.

BLACKHAWKS ASSIGN LEDDY TO ROCKFORD

By: Adam Rogowin

Photo by Bill Smith/NHLI via Getty Images
10/18/2010 8:16 AM -
The Chicago Blackhawks have assigned defenseman Nick Leddy to the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs.

Leddy, 19, made his National Hockey League debut on Oct. 7 in Colorado, becoming the youngest blueliner to appear in a Blackhawks season opener since 1999. He registered his first professional goal on Oct. 11 at Buffalo’s HSBC Arena Center and shares third on the team with ten blocked shots in the club’s first six tilts of the campaign.

Originally chosen with the 16th overall selection of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft by the Minnesota Wild, Leddy was acquired by the Blackhawks in a trade on Feb. 12, 2010. The Eden Prairie, Minnesota, native, and 2009 Mr. Hockey Award winner in the state, ranked second among team freshmen with 11 points (3G,8A) and posted a +6 plus/minus rating in 30 games in his inaugural season at the University of Minnesota (WCHA) in 2009-10.

Next Home Game: Friday, Oct. 22 vs. Abbotsford Heat. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The first 1,000 fans into the building will pick up an IceHogs Poster #1 in a series of six, compliments of Comcast, Q98.5 and Medicine Man.

SPECIAL TEAMS LEAD ROCKFORD OVER HEAT

By: Mike Peck

Photo by Jim Orlando
10/16/2010 9:27 AM - Hogs escape with a 4-3 shootout win

Abbotsford, BC-What a difference a few days make. Just four days after picking up the pieces because of poor special teams play, the Rockford IceHogs finish off a two-game sweep in Abbotsford over the Heat because of those same units.

Rockford netted three power-play goals and held the Heat to 1-7 on the advantage while knocking them off 4-2 in a shootout at the Abbotsford Entertainment and Sports Centre. Rockford finished the weekend 5-11 on the power play while holding the Heat to 1-12.

Down 3-2 in the third period, Ryan Potulny tied the game with Rockford’s third power-play goal of the night at 7:02. Igor Makarov found Potunly all alone in front of Matt Keetley and he potted his second goal of the season.

In overtime, Rockford failed to convert on another power play chance and Alec Richards denied Carter Bancks on a short-handed breakaway to force a shootout where Rockford outscored the Heat 3-2.

Matt Keith (round one) and Bryan Cameron (round two) beat Richards, but Jeremy Morin (round one), Ivan Vishnevskiy (round four) and Brandon Pirri (round five) got to Keetley for the extra standings point.

Saturday’s contest featured a scoreless first period. Abbotsford outshot Rockford 8-5 in the opening frame, but both Richards and Keetley turned away all the shots fired their way.

Rockford capitalized on a 5-on-3 power play in the second period to jump out to a 1-0 lead. Brian Connelly found Morin on the left face-off circle and the rookie winger beat Keetley under the right pad for his third goal of the season at 4:17. All three of Morin’s goals have come on the power play.

Abbotsford responded with three goals in less than a minute after Richards held them off the board for 92:13. John Armstrong broke the Heat drought when he flipped in a Bancks pass over the shoulder of Richards at 12:14 of the second period.

Just :12 later Keith redirected a Keith Seabrook slap shot off of a Cameron face-off win past Richards for his team-leading third goal of the season. Seabrook finished off the barrage at 13:05 while the Heat skated on a 5-on-3 power play, blasting his first goal of the season past Richards through traffic.

The IceHogs got one back, however, with another power play marker. Jeff Taffe deflected a Vishnevskiy pass behind Keetley for his third goal of the campaign at 19:07.

Rockford was outshot 32-21 on the night, but Richards was stout in net turning away 29 shots. Keetley made his first start of the season and took the shootout loss after making 18 saves.

Next Home Game: Friday, Oct. 22 vs. Abbotsford Heat. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The first 1,000 fans into the building will pick up an IceHogs Poster #1 in a series of six, compliments of Comcast, Q98.5 and Medicine Man.

RICHARDS, ICEHOGS BLANK ABBOTSFORD 5-0

By: Mike Peck

Photo by Jim Orlando
10/15/2010 1:45 PM - Rookie net-minder picks up first career AHL shutout

Abbotsford, BC- Heading into Friday’s game the Rockford IceHogs had a league worst 5.00 goals against average and a dismal penalty kill rate of 33.3-percent.

Rookie goalie Alec Richards helped turn those tides as he made 27 saves in a 5-0 win over the Abbotsford Heat at the Abbotsford Entertainment and Sports Centre.

Richards key stops included several in the first two periods while Abbotsford skated on the power play. The IceHogs held the Heat to 0-5 on the man advantage while converting two of their own five power-play opportunities.

Evan Brophey gave Rockford an early 1-0 lead. Ryan Stanton’s slap shot from the point was blocked down by Leland Irving, but Brophey was there to clean up the rebound at 6:24 for his second goal of the season. Ben Smith was also credited with an assist.

Rob Klinkhammer extended Rockford’s lead early on in period two. The IceHogs winger picked up a loose puck behind the Heat goal and with Irving down, Klinkhammer banked his second goal of the season off of his left pad and in at 2:27.

Rookie winger Jeremy Morin made the score 3-0 when he followed up his own rebound at 7:32 of the middle stanza and flipped his second goal of the campaign over the right shoulder of Irving while Rockford skated on a power play.

Jeff Taffe finished Rockford’s three-goal second period when Brophey hit him with a pass as he hopped out of the penalty box and the veteran center beat Irving five-hole on a breakaway at 16:11, making it 4-0 at the second intermission.

The IceHogs tacked on another power-play tally in the third period when Brandon Pirri knocked in his first career professional goal. Brian Connelly’s shot from the blue line was redirected by Pirri past Irving at 4:08 of the final frame making it 5-0.

Both teams had 27 shots on goal and Irving was saddled with the loss.

Next Home Game: Friday, Oct. 22 vs. Abbotsford Heat. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The first 1,000 fans into the building will pick up an IceHogs Poster #1 in a series of six, compliments of Comcast, Q98.5 and Medicine Man.

BLACKHAWKS RECALL CULLIMORE

By: Adam Rogowin

10/14/2010 2:32 PM - Chicago, Ill.-The Chicago Blackhawks have recalled defenseman Jassen Cullimore from the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs.

Cullimore, 37, has appeared in three games for Rockford this season, collecting one assist and registering a team-best +4 plus/minus rating. The Simcoe, Ontario, native is a veteran of 776 career National Hockey League regular-season games, racking up 77 assists, 103 points and 696 penalty minutes with the Vancouver Canucks (1994-96), Montreal Canadiens, (1996-98), Tampa Bay Lightning (1998-2004), Blackhawks (2005-07) and Florida Panthers (2007-09). Cullimore, who helped Tampa Bay capture the 2004 Stanley Cup, tallied 14 points (2G, 12A) and 117 penalty minutes during his two seasons in a Chicago uniform, which includes his last appearance with the club on April 8, 2007.

The Blackhawks will visit the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena on Friday, October 15 at 6:00 P.M.

ICEHOGS ASSIGN LEBLANC TO TOLEDO

By: Mike Peck

Photo by Jim Orlando
10/13/2010 2:56 PM - Winger played in two games for Rockford

Rockford, Ill.- Chicago Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliations Mark Bernard announced on Wednesday that the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League have assigned winger Peter LeBlanc to the ECHL’s Toledo Walleye.

LeBlanc has skated in two games with Rockford in 2010-11. The rookie chipped in an assist during his professional debut on Saturday against Manitoba.

The Hamilton, Ontario native played the previous four seasons at the University of New Hampshire and totaled 85 points in 153 career games.

Next Home Game: Friday, Oct. 22 vs. Abbotsford Heat. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The first 1,000 fans into the building will pick up an IceHogs Poster #1 in a series of six, compliments of Comcast, Q98.5 and Medicine Man.

PENALTY KILL SLUMP CONTINUES IN 6-2 LOSS

By: Amanda Waters

10/12/2010 1:07 PM - Peoria, Ill.- The season might only be three games old, but the special teams are becoming an issue for the Rockford IceHogs, particularly the penalty kill. Rockford gave up four power-play tallies to the Peoria Rivermen on Tuesday in a 6-2 loss at Carver Arena.

Rockford has now given up eight power-play goals on 12 short-handed situations while scoring just one power-play tally on 12 chances of their own.

A pair of power-play goals started the scoring on Tuesday. Peoria struck first when defenseman Nathan Oystrick blasted his second goal of the season past Hannu Toivonen, beating him over the glove off of a Graham Mink pass at 2:08.

Rockford found themselves on a 5-on-3 midway through the first period and capitalized when Jeremy Morin tallied his career professional goal. Ivan Vishnevskiy found Morin on the left face-off circle, and the rookie beat Ben Bishop at 9:58.

The first period featured six shots on goal, including four by Rockford, and all six combined shots came on the power play.

Peoria regained the lead in the second period when Phil McRae picked up a loose puck in traffic and flipped it past a screened Toivonen at 3:53. The lead was extended to 3-1 at 9:51 after David Spina caught the IceHogs sleeping in their own zone and potted his first goal of the season.

The penalty kill continued to give Rockford problems as Nicholas Drazenovic made it 4-1 on the advantage. In transition, Drazenovic picked up a Mink pass and beat Toivonen shortside for his first goal of the campaign.

The IceHogs responded with a transition goal of their own. Rookie defenseman Shawn Lalonde picked up a Brandon Pirri feed, split the Rivermen defensemen and beat Bishop high glove side at 17:30 to reduce their deficit to 4-2.

Rockford couldn’t carry the momentum over to the third period, however, as the penalty kill let the game get too far out of reach with a pair of Chris Porter goals.

Porter’s first marker came at 5:52 on Alec Richards, who replaced Toivonen after the second intermission, at 5:52. Porter then completed the scoring at 7:10 of the third slipping home his third goal of the season through the pads of Richards.

Rockford was outshot 24-22 in the game and Toivonen took the loss after making 10 saves.

Next Home Game: Friday, Oct. 22 vs. Abbotsford Heat. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The first 1,000 fans into the building will pick up an IceHogs Poster #1 in a series of six, compliments of Comcast, Q98.5 and Medicine Man.

ROCKFORD SPLITS A PAIR TO OPEN 2010-11

By: Mike Peck

Photo by Greg Hamil
10/11/2010 12:36 PM - IceHogs set for three road games in Week 2

Week 1 Recap
The IceHogs kicked off their 12th season of professional hockey in Rockford and fourth in the American Hockey League as affiliates of the Chicago Blackhawks with a pair of home games. After falling to the Manitoba Moose in their opener, Rockford bounced back and topped the Grand Rapids Griffins on Sunday.

Week 1 Results
Saturday, Oct. 9: Manitoba 5 vs. Rockford 2
Sunday, Oct. 10: Grand Rapids 4 vs. Rockford 5

Week 2 Schedule
Tuesday, Oct. 12 at Peoria, 7:05 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 15 at Abbotsford, 9 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 16 at Abbotsford, 9 p.m.

Week 1 Recap
The IceHogs kicked off their 12th season of professional hockey in Rockford and fourth in the American Hockey League as affiliates of the Chicago Blackhawks with a pair of home games. After falling to the Manitoba Moose in their opener, Rockford bounced back and topped the Grand Rapids Griffins on Sunday.

Bacon Bits:
-Rockford netted seven goals during week 1 and all seven were scored by different skaters

-Dating back to the beginning of the 2009-10 season, Rockford is 8-0-0-1 against Grand Rapids

-Of those nine contests, seven of them have been one-goal games

-Goalie Alec Richards earned his fourth career AHL win on Sunday and three of them have come against Grand Rapids

-Including the two games Rockford played in Week 1, five of the IceHogs first six games are against North Division foes

-The IceHogs were 18-7-0-1 against the North Division in 2009-10

-Jeremy Morin and Peter LeBlanc both made their professional debuts with Rockford on Saturday against Manitoba

-The IceHogs have killed just two of six power plays in their first two games

-Rockford’s power play is 0-6

-The IceHogs faced two 5-on-3 penalty kills over the weekend at the MetroCentre after facing just five at home all of ’09-10



Hot Hog Week 1:

Entering his fourth season, IceHogs winger Rob Klinkhammer played a key role in Rockford’s 5-4 win over the Grand Rapids Griffins on Sunday. The winger notched a goal and an assist in the IceHogs first victory of the season with a plus/minus rating of +2 and a team high seven shots on goal.

Upcoming Games:
Tuesday, Oct. 12 at Peoria Rivermen: The game starts at 7:05 p.m. Rockford hits the road for the first time in 2010-11 and travels downstate to Peoria to take on the Rivermen. The game is the first of 10 on the season and first of five in Peoria at Carver Arena.

Friday, Oct. 15 at Abbotsford Heat: Game time is 9 p.m. The IceHogs head west for their annual Abbotsford visit. The game opens a two-game set in Abbotsford, BC and marks the beginning of three straight games against the Heat overall.

Saturday, Oct. 16 at Abbotsford Heat: The puck drops at 9 p.m. A three-game road swing concludes for the IceHogs in Abbotsford at the Abbotsford Entertainment and Sports Centre. The game is Rockford’s final regular season tilt in Abbotsford between the IceHogs and Heat.

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 in Rockford can tune in to Channel 57 for all the IceHogs hockey action at the MetroCentre this season. All Saturday home game will also be televised on My Network TV digital subchannel 17.2 along with Comcast and Charter Cable channel 16. The broadcast begins with the U.S. Cellular 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.

Bud Light Hog Talk Is Back Tonight At Swilligan’s Pub:
Bud Light Hog Talk returns to Swilligan’s Pub tonight. Swillgan’s Pub is located in downtown Rockford at 200 North Church St. Fans can join Mike Peck from 6-7 p.m. most Mondays as he chats with IceHogs players, coaches and front office members. This week’s guests include IceHogs wingers Rob Klinkhammer, Jeff Taffe and Head Coach Bill Peters. Stop by and take advantage of some great food and Bud Light specials. If you can’t make it, 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 2010-11 season. Tickets can also be purchased in person at the Rockford MetroCentre Box Office in downtown Rockford or on the Web at www.metrocentre.com. Tickets start at just $7.

HOGS PULL OFF THRILLING 5-4 VICTORY OVER GRAND RAPIDS

By: Nate Haeni

10/10/2010 4:00 PM - Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs tallied midway through the third period to take the 5-4 win over the Grand Rapids Griffins in a back-and-forth affair on Sunday at the Rockford MetroCentre.

The IceHogs and Griffins traded blows throughout the game as the lead changed five times before the Hogs were finally able to seal the deal on a Ryan Potulny marker. Jeff Taffe powered across the Griffins zone and sent a cross-ice pass to Potulny who zipped a slap shot past McCollum at 10:56 in the third period.

One night after falling into a four goal deficit, the IceHogs got the scoring started early. Potulny led a two-on-one breakaway at 1:35 in the first period and found Simon Danis-Pepin streaking towards the front of the net. Danis-Pepin picked up the pass and chipped in his first goal of the season to put the Hogs up 1-0. Taffe was also credited with an assist on the play.

But Grand Rapids responded with two goals of their own. Francis Pare found Doug Janik as he put home his first goal of the season at 13:28. Jamie Johnson also factored in on the play with an assist.

Then, the Griffins took a 2-1 lead at 19:48 in the first with a power play marker. Brendan Smith and Tomas Tatar dished the puck to Cory Emmerton and he blasted it by Alec Richards.

The IceHogs battled right back as Evan Brophey opened the second period with a goal. Brophey picked up the puck and fired it past Thomas McCollum to make it 2-2. Danis-Pepin picked up his second point of the night with the assist, along with Rob Klinkhammer.

Grand Rapids made it 3-2 when Logan Pyett sent the puck to the back of the net at 9:54 with a power-play blast.

Again the IceHogs responded, this time with two goals to regain the lead. Shawn Lalonde's initial shot was turned away by McCollum but Klinkhammer was there to knock it in from point blank at 11:43 in the second period. Kyle Beach also had the helper.

Then, Igor Makarov gave the Hogs a 4-3 lead at 19:02 when he slapped in a rebound from a Ben Smith drive, Brandon Pirri was also credited with an assist.

But Grand Rapids wasn’t done and tied it up at 4-4 when Mursak buried his first goal of the season at 1:45 in the third period. Tatar found Mursak and he slipped it past Richards’ blocker.

Richards turned away 25 shots to pick up the win, while McCollum was tagged with a loss after stopping 28 shots. Rockford’s power play was held in check as they couldn’t convert on three chances. Grand Rapids was two-for-three on the man advantage.

ICEHOGS FALL 5-2 AGAINST MOOSE IN OPENER

By: Adam Weil

10/08/2010 7:25 PM - Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs stumbled against the Manitoba Moose 5-2 on Saturday at the Rockford MetroCentre to open the 2010-11 regular season.

Rockford fell into a four-goal deficit, which was too large to overcome. Manitoba started the game strong with early chances throughout the opening minutes. Hannu Toivonen held the Moose off the board early on, but Manitoba got to him at 5:38.

Moose forward Jonas Anderson put the first point on the board when he cut down the right side and angled off the IceHogs defense to follow up on his initial shot and slid one underneath Toivonen's pads. Sergei Shirokov and Lee Sweatt were each credited with assists.

Late in the first period Manitoba increased their lead to 2-0. Kevin Connauton connected with a shot from outside the hash marks at 15:54. Joel Perrault and Victor Oreskovich each factored in with an assist.

The Moose were able to stretch their lead to three goals with a one timer from Lee Sweatt while Manitoba skated on a 5-on-3 power play. Sweatt soared the puck past the diving Toivonen on his blocker side at 4:16. Nolan Baumgartner and Jordan Schroeder each picked up an assist while maintaining the pressure in the IceHogs zone.

Just over a half minute later the Moose kept rolling with a second power-play goal, this one from Shirokov at 4:47. The Moose had pressure in front started by Joel Perrault and Andersson who were eventually credited with assists. Shirokov found the net with a wrist shot that threaded its way past Toivonen.

Minutes into the third period the IceHogs began to increase their opportunities. Brandon Bollig got Rockford on the board when he knocked his first goal of the season past Manitoba's goaltender Eddie Lack at 3:24. Peter LeBlanc and Kyle Hagel factored in with an assist.

Then IceHogs winger Kyle Beach drove towards the left side and wristed a shot above the hash marks over the left side of Manitoba's Lack at 6:41 to cut the Moose lead down to 4-2. Brian Connelly and Ryan Stanton received assists on the play.

Manitoba, however, put the game out of reach when Oreskovich received a cross-ice pass from Bill Sweatt and converted a shot past Toivonen. Lee Sweatt also chipped in a helper on the goal at 15:01.

Toivonen stopped 26 shots in a losing effort, while Lack was able to keep things at bay in crucial moments in the third period finishing the game with 23 saves.
Manitoba's special teams were efficient capitalizing on two-of-three power play opportunities all but eliminating any chances for the IceHogs to comeback.

Next Home Game: Sunday, Oct. 10 vs. Grand Rapids Griffins. The game will start at 4:05 p.m. The Stanley Cup is coming back to Rockford. Fans can see and take a picture with the Stanley Cup starting at 3 p.m. The game will be brought to you by Taco Bell, WIFR and WXRX.

BLACKHAWKS RECALL PIRRI

By: Adam Rogowin

10/09/2010 3:15 PM -
Chicago, Ill. - The Chicago Blackhawks have recalled forward Brandon Pirri from the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs.

Pirri, 19, was the Blackhawks’ second selection (59th overall) in the 2009 National Hockey League Entry Draft. The Toronto, Ontario native tallied one goal, one assist and posted a +1 plus/minus rating in two preseason tilts with Chicago this year. He ranked second on the club, seventh in the league, and first among ECAC rookies with 43 points (11G,32A) in 2009-10 during his freshman season at Rensselear Polytechnic Institute.

The Blackhawks will launch their 2010-11 regular-season home opener on Saturday with a special red carpet event on Madison Street in front of the United Center from 5:00 to 5:30 P.M. Chicago hosts the Detroit Red Wings at the United Center at 7:30 P.M. after raising their 2010 Stanley Cup Championship Banner. Saturday’s home opener will be broadcast on Comcast SportsNet Chicago and Chicago’s WGN Radio.

VETERAN D-MAN SIGNS WITH ICEHOGS

By: Nate Haeni

10/08/2010 1:39 PM -
Rockford, Ill.- Chicago Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliations Mark Bernard announced Friday that defenseman Garnet Exelby has signed a Professional Try-Out Agreement with the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League.

Exelby appeared in 51 games with the Toronto Maple Leafs (National Hockey League) in 2009-10, notching four points (1g-3a) and racking up 73 penalty minutes.

The Ste. Anne, Manitoba native has played in 408 career games in the NHL with the Atlanta Thrashers and Maple Leafs. The tenth year pro has tallied 32 points in that span.

Exelby was selected by Atlanta in the eighth round (#217 overall) in the 1999 NHL Entry Draft. The 29-year-old skated in 128 with the Chicago Wolves, including the Calder Cup Championship team in 2001-02.

Next Home Game: Sunday, Oct. 10 vs. Grand Rapids Griffins. The game will start at 4:05 p.m. The Stanley Cup is coming back to Rockford. Fans can view and take pictures with the cup, along with the Campbell Bowl, Conn Smythe Trophy and the Norris Trophy.

STARS OF TOMORROW DISPLAY TO DEBUT THIS WEEKEND

By: Chris Etheridge

10/08/2010 8:35 AM - Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs announced on Friday a new partnership with the Rockford Register Star to promote the “Stars of Tomorrow” through a display on the Rockford MetroCentre’s southwest entrance.

The Rockford Register Star “Stars of Tomorrow” wall will feature a photo display of the 30 players who have been recalled to a National Hockey League team since playing in a Rockford uniform. The list includes 23 players who have been recalled to the Chicago Blackhawks, ten of which were on the Blackhawks Stanley Cup championship team last year.

In addition, the Register Star is also offering fans the opportunity to meet an IceHogs player during the second intermission of each home game this season in front of the display.

The new display and autograph session are parts of a new series of game-day programming in the remodeled section of the MetroCentre. Other amenities include the Bud Select Deck and new team store called Oink Outfitters.

ICEHOGS ADOPT HILLMAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL FOR THE 2010-11 SEASON

By: Mike Peck

10/07/2010 12:30 PM - Team announces partnership at a press conference

Rockford, Ill.- The American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs, proud affiliate of the National Hockey League’s Chicago Blackhawks and members of the American Hockey League, in conjunction with Hillman Elementary School and Rockford Public School District announced that the IceHogs are adopting Hillman Elementary School for the 2010-11 season.

The announcement was made at a press conference at Hillman Elementary School on Thursday afternoon.

The unique partnership between the IceHogs and Hillman Elementary is designed to enhance the student’s educational experience with interaction from IceHogs players, coaches, mascots and staff members. As a part of the IceHogs community initiative, the organization will participate in school appearances at Hillman Elementary including reading nights, fun fairs and classroom visits.

“We are thrilled to be a part of this new and exciting partnership with Hillman Elementary School,” said RAVE Executive Director Gordon Kaye. “We view this as just the start of a long-term relationship with the Rockford School District. On a personal level, as the parent of two wonderful school-age children, I know how important positive role models are in the social and educational development of school-age children.”

Students at Hillman Elementary School will also have opportunities to participate in field trips to the Rockford MetroCentre to learn the physics of hockey, how the ice is installed and watch and meet the 2010-11 IceHogs team.

"I am very excited to partner with the IceHogs at Hillman,” said Carolyn Kloss, principal at Hillman Elementary. “The IceHogs' interest in working with children and supporting our school is exciting. Hopefully each grade level will get to take a field trip appropriate to their curriculum to visit the MetroCentre and learn more about the IceHogs! At the same time, the IceHogs will visit us at school and support children and academics."

Last season alone the IceHogs made 164 community appearances in and around the Rockford community and helped raise nearly $110,000 through several different charitable events.

For more information about the IceHogs in the community or about the IceHogs adopting Hillman Elementary, please contact the team at (815) 986-6465. To see where the IceHogs will be, visit www.icehogs.com/schedule/community.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 9, 2010 vs. Manitoba Moose. The puck is set to drop at 4:35 p.m. The IceHogs begin the 2010-11 season against the Manitoba Moose and the first 5,000 fans will receive a 2010-11 IceHogs Magnet Schedule courtesy of U.S. Cellular, Dental Dimensions, Guerilla Graffix and the Illinois Pork Producers. Before the game on Saturday there is a fan festival from 1-4 p.m. where fans can enjoy music, food and entertainment.

CULLIMORE AND POTULNY ASSIGNED TO ROCKFORD

By: Mike Peck

Photo by Jim Orlando
10/06/2010 2:22 PM - Hogs reassign three skaters to Toledo

Chicago, Ill.-The Chicago Blackhawks announced that the National Hockey League club has assigned defenseman Jassen Cullimore and center Ryan Potulny to the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League.

In addition, Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliations Mark Bernard announced that the IceHogs have reassigned forwards Andy Bohmbach and Zach Torquato along with defenseman Scott Fletcher to the ECHL’s Toledo Walleye.

Cullimore enters his 19th season and second with Rockford. The Simcoe, Ontario native skated in 59 games with the IceHogs in 2009-10 tallying 2g-6a. Cullimore has 776 games of NHL experience, including 119 with Chicago from 2004-2006.

Overall, the veteran d-man has played in 1,019 career professional games and was a member of the 2004 Stanley Cup Champion Tampa Bay Lightning.

Potulny signed on with the Blackhawks on Sept. 9 and begins his fifth season at the pro level. The Grand Forks, N.D. native is coming off a career year with the Edmonton Oilers where he scored 15g-17a in 64 games, all career bests.

The 6-foot center has appeared in 172 career AHL games and has racked up 74g-69a. Potulny scored the game-winning goal in the longest game in AHL history as a member of the Philadelphia Phantoms on April 24, 2008. His goal 2:58 into the fifth overtime lifted the Phantoms over Albany.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 9 vs. Manitoba Moose. The puck is set to drop at 4:35 p.m. The IceHogs begin the 2010-11 season against the Manitoba Moose and the first 5,000 fans will receive a 2010-11 IceHogs Magnet Schedule courtesy of U.S. Cellular, Dental Dimensions, Guerilla Graffix and the Illinois Pork Producers. Before the game on Saturday there is a fan festival from 1-4 p.m. where fans can enjoy music, food and entertainment.

VOTE FOR THE ICEHOGS THIRD BOBBLEHEAD GIVEAWAY AT FAN FEST SATURDAY

10/06/2010 2:20 PM -
Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League kick off the 2010-11 regular season against the Manitoba Moose on Saturday, Oct. 9. The team will hold Fan Fest from 1-4 p.m. before the puck drops at 4:35 p.m.

The Fan Fest will take place on the Main St. block between Elm St. and State St. The event is free and open to the public. Fan Fest is sponsored by U.S. Cellular, Guerilla Graffix, the Illinois Pork Producers Association, Pepsi and WNTA.

The Illinois Pork Producers Association will provide free pork sliders and Pepsi will have free samples of Pepsi Max available. Other food and refreshments will also be offered at the Fan Fest.

Jeff Randall and the Sunday Best will perform a free concert on the Fan Fest grounds from 2-3:30 p.m.

As a part of the IceHogs 2010-11 bobblehead series, fans will have an opportunity to vote for the third bobblehead in the three-player set. The third and final bobblehead giveaway is slated for Saturday, March 19 and fans can vote for their choice at the U.S. Cellular Mobile Tour Experience. Candidates for the bobblehead are Troy Brouwer, Dave Bolland and Niklas Hjalmarsson.

The Army will also have a humvee and other equipment available to view.

Doors to the IceHogs-Moose regular season opener will open at 3:30 p.m. The first 5,000 fans to pass through the turnstiles will receive an IceHogs magnet schedule. Following the game, fans will be invited to stick around to watch the pregame ceremonies live from the United Center on the MetroCentre’s big screen as the Blackhawks raise their 2010 Stanley Cup Championship banner. Fans can also participate in an open skate on the MetroCentre ice.

Individual game tickets are now on sale by calling (815) 968-5222, on-line at www.metrocentre.com or in person at the MetroCentre Box Office. The Box Office is open from noon-5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

For more information about the IceHogs Fan Fest, call (815) 986-6465.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 9 vs. Manitoba Moose. The puck is set to drop at 4:35 p.m. The IceHogs begin the 2010-11 season against the Manitoba Moose and the first 5,000 fans will receive a 2010-11 IceHogs Magnet Schedule courtesy of U.S. Cellular, Dental Dimensions, Guerilla Graffix and the Illinois Pork Producers. Before the game on Saturday there is a fan festival from 1-4 p.m. where fans can enjoy music, food and entertainment.

NEW TEAM STORE TO OPEN FRIDAY

10/05/2010 7:55 AM - Rockford, Ill.-- The Rockford IceHogs will host the grand opening of their new team store “Oink Outfitters” at 6 p.m. Friday at the Rockford MetroCentre.

Season Ticket Holders and local dignitaries are invited to the event. Oink Outfitters is located on the second floor of the new entrance to the MetroCentre.

Attendees are asked to enter the building at the corner of Chestnut and Church streets.

Season ticket holders attending the grand Ooening will get 25 percent off any one item (some restrictions apply). Oink Outfitters will open to the public at 3:05 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 9 when the doors open for Rockford’s first regular season game against the Manitoba Moose.

Discount is not applicable with any other offers.

BLACKHAWKS ASSIGN MORIN TO ROCKFORD

By: Mike Peck

10/04/2010 1:32 PM - Chicago, Ill.-The Chicago Blackhawks have assigned forward Jeremy Morin to the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs.

Morin, 19, was acquired by Chicago in a June trade with the Atlanta Thrashers that sent Dustin Byfuglien, Brent Sopel and Ben Eager to Atlanta. The Auburn, New York native is entering his first professional season after playing last season in the Ontario Hockey League and the previous two in the North American Hockey League.

Last season with the Kitchener Rangers (OHL) Morin tallied 47g-36a-83pts in 58 regular season games. The 6-1 winger then accumulated 12g-9a in 20 OHL playoff games.

Rockford’s roster now stands at 25 skaters including 16 forwards, seven defensemen and two goalies. The IceHogs open the 2010-11 regular season on Saturday at the Rockford MetroCentre against the Manitoba Moose at 4:35 p.m.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 9, 2010 vs. Manitoba Moose. The puck is set to drop at 4:35 p.m. The IceHogs begin the 2010-11 season against the Manitoba Moose and the first 5,000 fans will receive a 2010-11 IceHogs Magnet Schedule courtesy of U.S. Cellular, Dental Dimensions, Guerilla Graffix and the Illinois Pork Producers. Before the game on Saturday there is a fan festival from 1-4 p.m. where fans can enjoy music, food and entertainment.

HOGS DROP FINAL PRESEASON GAME 5-2 IN PEORIA

By: Nate Haeni
10/02/2010 5:24 PM -
Peoria, Ill – An early three goal surge by the Peoria Rivermen was too much for the Rockford IceHogs to overcome as they fell 5-2 on Saturday at Carver Arena.

The IceHogs found themselves in familiar territory as they have started each preseason game trailing from the beginning in all four contests.

Peirce Norton put the Rivermen on the board first as he slid the puck past the glove of Hannu Toivonen at 1:52 in the first period. Zach Pearson was credited with the assist.

Then at 7:47, Ryan Palmer blasted the puck towards the net and Ethan Cox picked up the loose rubber and fired it to the back of the net. Anthony Nigro also factored in with a helper.

The Rivermen went up 3-0 when Chris Morehouse out reached a diving Toivonen to bury the goal. Mark Cundari had the assist, along with Nigro, who notched his second assist of the night.

The IceHogs struck quickly in the second, when defenseman Ivan Vishnevskiy fired a puck past Peoria's goaltender, Ben Bishop, at 1:12. Kyle Beach and Chris DiDomenico were each credited with an assist.

Soon after though, the Rivermen were able to extend the lead back up to three goals when Tyler Shattock tapped home a puck sitting on the doorstep following a brief scramble in front of the IceHogs net. Shattock's goal came at 15:37 on the power play. Adam Cracknell and Brett Sonne picked up their first points of the night with the assists.

The IceHogs were able to pick away at Peoria's three goal lead when a shot from Kyle Hagel poked out towards the left corner and a streaking Peter LeBlanc converted the rebound to cut the deficit to just two heading to the third period.

Then, at 6:57 in the third period, Peoria struck again to put the IceHogs away with a power play tally. Sonne tipped in a Dean Arsene wrist shot to put the Rivermen up 5-2. Cracknell also figured in on the play with his second assist on the night.

Toivonen turned away 17 shots in a losing effort, while Bishop stopped 21 shots to pickup the win. Bishop shined late in the second period, holding off a large surge by the IceHogs to keep his team up with a lead going into the third.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 9, 2009 vs. Manitoba Moose. The puck is set to drop at 4:35 p.m. The IceHogs begin the 2010-11 season against the Manitoba Moose and the first 5,000 fans will receive a 2010-11 IceHogs Magnet Schedule courtesy of U.S. Cellular, Dental Dimensions, Guerilla Graffix and the Illinois Pork Producers. Before the game on Saturday there is a fan festival from 1-4 p.m. where fans can enjoy music, food and entertainment.

TOIVONEN ASSIGNED TO ROCKFORD, BATTOCHIO RELEASED

By: Mike Peck
10/02/2010 12:48 PM

10/02/2010 12:48 PM - Hogs roster takes shape one week before opener

Chicago, Ill.- The Chicago Blackhawks announced on Saturday that goalie Hannu Toivonen has been assigned to the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs.

In addition, Chicago Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliations Mark Bernard announced that the IceHogs have released goalie Danny Battochio from his training camp tryout.

Toivonen was acquired in March by the Blackhawks from the St. Louis Blues and played in six games with Rockford. The Kalvola, Finland native had a record 1-4-0 with the IceHogs with a .883 save percentage and a 3.44 goals against average.

Before his trade to the Blackhawks organization, Toivonen blocked pucks for the Peoria Rivermen and was 11-11-3 with a .906 SPCT and 2.73 GAA. Toivonen was the Boston Bruins first round pick (#29 overall) in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft.

Battochio is in his second season at the professional level and played in two preseason games for Rockford. The Sudbury, Ont. Native earned the win in Rockford’s 5-4 shootout victory over Peoria on Tuesday at the MetroCentre.

Rockford’s training camp roster now features 24 players including 15 forwards, seven defensemen and two goalies.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 9, 2009 vs. Manitoba Moose. The puck is set to drop at 4:35 p.m. The IceHogs begin the 2010-11 season against the Manitoba Moose and the first 5,000 fans will receive a 2010-11 IceHogs Magnet Schedule courtesy of U.S. Cellular, Dental Dimensions, Guerilla Graffix and the Illinois Pork Producers. Before the game on Saturday there is a fan festival from 1-4 p.m. where fans can enjoy music, food and entertainment.

Ben Smith Interview

HOGS FALL TO ADMIRALS 3-2 IN A SHOOTOUT

By: Nate Haeni
10/01/2010 5:40 PM

Photo by Greg Hamil
10/01/2010 5:40 PM -
Hogs finish preseason slate on Saturday in Peoria

Rockford, Ill.- The home portion of Rockford IceHogs preseason schedule came to an end on Friday night and the American Hockey League club fell 3-2 in a shootout against the Milwaukee Admirals at the Rockford MetroCentre.

All four goals were scored in the second period, with Milwaukee bookending the scoring.

Early in the second period Milwaukee converted on the power play. IceHogs goaltender Alec Richards fended off a Chris Mueller blast but Wes Cunningham fired the rebound to the back of the net to put Milwaukee up 1-0. Michael Bartlett also factored in on the play at 1:56.

The IceHogs responded with a power-play goal of their own to tie it up at 1-1. Ben Smith pounded home a Ryan Stanton blast from the point at 9:44 in the second period. Chris DiDomenico was also credited with a helper.

Peter Leblanc gave the IceHogs a brief lead at the 13:09 mark when he drove to the net and chipped in his own rebound past Jeremy Smith. Brian Connelly and Ivan Vishnevskiy had the assists.

Milwaukee came back 29 seconds later and tied it up at 2-2. Richards couldn't cover a loose puck in the IceHogs zone and Conner Shields slapped it to the back of the net.

Rockford outshot the Admirals 12-7 in the third period, but couldn’t find the back of the net and for the second-straight home preseason game the contest went to overtime and eventually to the shootout.

After Jeff Taffe tallied for Rockford in round one, Smith held Rockford off the board the rest of the way. Chris Mueller (round two) and Mark Van Guilder (round four) beat Richards as the Admirals out did Rockford 2-1 in the shootout.

The IceHogs outshot the Admirals 35-22 in the contest and both teams finished 1-6 on the power play.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 9, 2009 vs. Manitoba Moose. The puck is set to drop at 4:35 p.m. The IceHogs begin the 2010-11 season against the Manitoba Moose and the first 5,000 fans will receive a 2010-11 IceHogs Magnet Schedule courtesy of U.S. Cellular, Dental Dimensions, Guerilla Graffix and the Illinois Pork Producers. Before the game on Saturday there is a fan festival from 1-4 p.m. where fans can enjoy music, food and entertainment.

BLACKHAWKS ASSIGN FIVE MORE TO ROCKFORD

By: Mike Peck
10/01/2010 12:55 PM

10/01/2010 12:55 PM - Chicago, Ill.- The Chicago Blackhawks have assigned forwards Kyle Beach, Igor Makarov, Brandon Pirri and Ben Smith, and defenseman Brian Connelly to the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs.

The 2010-11 season marks the first full professional campaign for Beach, although the 6-3 winger spent two brief stints with Rockford the previous two seasons. After completing his junior career in the Western Hockey League last spring, Beach joined the IceHogs and led the club in postseason scoring, netting three goals last year.

The Kelowna, British Columbia native tallied a career-high 52 goals with the Spokane Chiefs (WHL) in 2009-10. Chicago’s first round selection (#11 overall) in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft also appeared in two regular season games and one postseason game with Rockford in 2008-09.

Makarov begins his first professional season in North America after playing the previous four campaigns in his native Russia. Last season, Makarov marked 5g-4a in 51 combined games between St. Petersburg and Moscow. The Moscow native was Chicago’s second round selection (#33 overall) in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft.

Pirri returns to Rockford after getting recalled by the Blackhawks on Thursday. The rookie winger skated in Chicago’s 4-1 loss to St. Louis Thursday night and recorded 15:27 of ice time.

Smith also joined the IceHogs at the tail-end of last season following his national championship run with Boston College. In three Calder Cup Playoff games with Rockford, Smith tallied one goal. During his senior season at Boston College Smith totaled 16g-21a-37pts in 42 games.

Connelly is in his second full season at the professional level and ’10-11 will be his second campaign in Rockford. The Bloomington, Minn. native was Rockford’s rookie of the year in 2009-10 after scoring 4g-31a-35pts in 78 games from the blueline.

Rockford’s training camp roster now contains 24 players including 15 forwards, seven defensemen and two goalies.

Chicago’s training camp roster now stands at 26 active players, which includes 14 forwards, 9 defensemen and three goaltenders.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 9, 2009 vs. Manitoba Moose. The puck is set to drop at 4:35 p.m. The IceHogs begin the 2010-11 season against the Manitoba Moose and the first 5,000 fans will receive a 2010-11 IceHogs Magnet Schedule courtesy of U.S. Cellular, Dental Dimensions, Guerilla Graffix and the Illinois Pork Producers. Before the game on Saturday there is a fan festival from 1-4 p.m. where fans can enjoy music, food and entertainment.