PIRRI SELECTED TO CANADA'S WORLD JUNIOR CAMP

By: Adam Rogowin Rockford, Ill.-Rockford IceHogs center Brandon Pirri was among the 39 players selected to attend Hockey Canada's evaluation camp, which starts Dec. 12 in Toronto.

The 59th overall pick in 2009 by the Chicago Blackhawks, Pirri has four goals and four assists for the IceHogs, and appeared in one NHL game with the Blackhawks on Oct. 9 against Detroit.

The final roster will be named on Dec. 15. The 2011 IIHF World Junior Championship will be played in Buffalo, New York, starting Dec. 26.

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CANADA 2011 WORLD JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP SELECTION CAMP ROSTER

GOALIES -- JP Anderson, Mississauga St. Michael's, OHL (San Jose); Calvin Pickard, Seattle, WHL (Colorado); Olivier Roy, Acadie-Bathurst, QMJHL (Edmonton); Mark Visentin, Niagara, OHL (Phoenix).

DEFENSE -- Tyson Barrie, Kelowna, WHL (Colorado); Jared Cowen, Spokane, WHL (Ottawa); Simon Despres, Saint John, QMJHL (Pittsburgh); Calvin de Haan, Oshawa, OHL (N.Y. Islanders); Ryan Ellis, Windsor, OHL (Nashville); Brandon Gormley, Moncton, QMJHL (Phoenix); Erik Gudbranson, Kingston, OHL (Florida); Brayden McNabb, Kootenay, WHL (Buffalo); Ryan Murphy, Kitchener, OHL (2011 Draft eligible); Ryan Murray, Everett, WHL (2012 Draft eligible); Dylan Olsen, Minnesota-Duluth, WCHA (Chicago); Mark Pysyk, Edmonton, WHL (Buffalo).

FORWARD -- Brad Ross, Portland, WHL (Toronto); Carter Ashton, Regina, WHL (Tampa Bay); Michael Bournival, Shawinigan, QMJHL (Montreal); Casey Cizikas, Mississauga St. Michael's, OHL (N.Y. Islanders); Brett Connolly, Prince George, WHL (Tampa Bay); Sean Couturier, Drummondville, QMJHL (2011 Draft eligible); Cody Eakin, Swift Current, WHL (Washington); Marcus Foligno, Sudbury, OHL (Buffalo); Brendan Gallagher, Vancouver, WHL (Montreal); Curtis Hamilton, Saskatoon, WHL (Edmonton); Joey Hishon, Owen Sound, OHL (Colorado); Quinton Howden, Moose Jaw, WHL (Panthers); Ryan Howse, Chilliwack, WHL (Calgary); Ryan Johansen, Portland, WHL (Columbus); Zach Kassian, Windsor, OHL (Buffalo); Louis Leblanc, Montreal, QMJHL (Montreal); Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Red Deer, WHL (2011 Draft eligible); Brandon Pirri, Rockford, AHL (Chicago); Jaden Schwartz, Colorado College, WCHA (St. Louis); Riley Sheahan, Notre Dame, CCHA (Detroit); Reilly Smith, Miami University CCHA, (Dallas); Linden Vey, Medicine Hat, WHL (Los Angeles); Garrett Wilson, Owen Sound, OHL (Florida).

ROCKFORD’S ATTENDANCE UP NEARLY 16% THROUGH WEEK 8

By: Mike Peck Photo by Greg Hamil Rockford earns a win in three chances

Week 8 Recap
Two crowds of over 4,700 fans highlighted Week 8 of the 2010-11 American Hockey League regular season for the Rockford IceHogs. The IceHogs attendance is 15.7% ahead of last season’s franchise record pace through nine home games. Rockford picked up a shootout win on Friday night and have two road games in Houston slated for Week 9, including a rare morning game on Thursday at the Toyota Center.

Week 8 Results
Wednesday, Nov. 24: Lake Erie Monsters 4 vs. Rockford IceHogs 2
Friday, Nov. 26: Rockford IceHogs 3 at Grand Rapids Griffins 2 SO
Saturday, Nov. 27: Peoria Rivermen 5 vs. Rockford IceHogs 0

Week 9 Schedule
Thursday, Dec. 2 at Houston, 11:05 a.m.
Friday, Dec. 3 at Houston, 7:35 p.m.

Bacon Bits:
Rockford’s attendance is up 15.7% through nine games in 2010-11 compared to 2009-10

The IceHogs averaged 4,451 fans in November compared to 3,226 in November 2009

Alec Richards 40 saves on Friday night in Grand Rapids marked an IceHogs single-game high and a career-high for Richards

With their 4-2 loss against Lake Erie on Wednesday, Rockford fell three-games under .500 for the first time during the team’s AHL era dating back to the 2007-08 season

Rockford hasn’t scored more than two goals in regulation since Nov. 9 in a 4-1 win against Peoria, a stretch of eight games

During that eight game stretch, the IceHogs have scored 10 goals

Rockford has scored two or less goals in 13 of their 21 games this season

Rookie forwards Kyle Beach and Brandon Pirri were a team-season low -4 on Saturday in Rockford’s 5-0 loss against Peoria

The IceHogs have given up one power-play goal in five-straight games

Rockford’s goalie combination of Alec Richards and Hannu Toivonen combined for a .911 save percentage and a 2.53 goals against average in November

Pirri is an AHL best 4-4 in the shootout this season

Beach is also a perfect 3-3 in the shootout

Beach missed Rockford’s first penalty shot attempt of the season on Friday in Grand Rapids when he was stopped by Griffins goalie Jordan Pearce in the first period

Hot Hog Week 8:
Alec Richards Goaltender
Rookie goaltender Alec Richards made an IceHogs season-high and set a career single-game high with 40 saves on Friday night in Rockford’s 3-2 win at Grand Rapids. Richards then turned away all four Griffins shooters in the shootout to earn his fifth win of the season and snapped a personal three-game winless streak.

Upcoming Games:
Thursday, Dec. 2 at Houston Aeros: The game starts at 11:05 a.m. Rockford heads back on the road for a rare morning game. The IceHogs and Aeros meet for the first time this season in a school day contest at the Toyota Center. The game is the first of two straight in Houston for Rockford.

Friday, Dec. 3 at Houston Aeros: Game time is slated for 7:35 p.m. A short Week 9 comes to an end for Rockford in the back-end of two straight at the Toyota Center against the Aeros. The game is the second of eight overall on the season between the West Division foes and second of four in Houston.

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. tonight as he chats with IceHogs players, coaches and front office members. This week’s guests include IceHogs winger Kyle Beach and team captain Garnet Exelby along with 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.

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.

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.

RIVERMEN SAIL PAST THE ICEHOGS 5-0

By: Mike Peck Photo by Greg Hamil
Rockford, Ill. – The Peoria Rivermen handled the Rockford IceHogs with ease shutting them out 5-0 on Saturday at the Rockford MetroCentre in front of 5,233 fans.

A struggling IceHogs offense seemed to have had the cards stacked against them facing the American Hockey League's top goaltender in Jake Allen.

Peoria got the scoring started at 7:20 in the first when Tyler Shattock dropped the puck off to Anthony Nigro. Nigro picked it up and fired in his second goal of the season, top shelf over the shoulder of Alec Richards, to make it 1-0. Stefan Della Rovere was also credited with an assist on the play.

Peoria would have another opportunity to add to their lead when they found themselves with the man advantage. Former IceHogs winger Derek Nesbitt was sitting up above the faceoff circle when he was set up for a one timer pass from Graham Mink at 8:06, Nesbitt's blast past Richards increased the Rivermen lead to 2-0. Phil McRae received an assist on the play.

Then the Rivermen made it 3-0 when Nicholas Drazenovic chipped in his team-leading seventh goal of season at 13:00 in the first. Peoria had the puck in deep behind Richards when Mink moved it out front. Richards and the Hogs didn't clear it and left it on the door step for Drazenovic to tap in. Cracknell also registered a helper.

The Rivermen would continue to pour on the goals but it wouldn't happen until the third period. Nathan Oystrick sent a low wrist shot towards the front of the net, looking for a tip was Mink, who directed the puck towards the bottom corner of the net past Toivonen at 1:17 to put Peoria out in front 4-0. Mark Cundari factored in with an assist on the play.

Just over a minute later the Rivermen offense continued to ease past the IceHogs, a goal by Mark Cundari at 2:43, all but ended any hope for the IceHogs to get back into the contest. Cundari's goal was set up by passes from Ryan Reaves and Derek Peltier, giving Peoria the 5-0 lead.

Notes: Peoria goaltender Jake Allen breaks a Rivermen (AHL) record for most shutouts in a season with four, accomplishing the mark in just 8 starts. Rockford's Rob Klinkhammer missed his third game in a row with an injury. The IceHogs power play went 0-6.

Boxscore

Next Home Game: Wednesday, Dec. 8 vs. Texas Stars. Game time is 6:35 p.m. The IceHogs kick off a season-high seven-game homestand when the Stars return to the MetroCentre. Wednesday is another Taco Bell Dollar Day presented by WXRX as fans can purchase beer, Vienna Beef hot dogs, soft drinks and companion tickets for just $1.

TWO STRUGGLING OFFENSES COLLIDE TONIGHT IN GRAND RAPIDS

By: Mike Peck Photo by Greg Hamil
11/26/2010 7:00 AM - IceHogs hope to end three-game winless streak

Grand Rapids, Mich.- Mired in a three-game winless streak, the Rockford look to avoid a turkey hangover tonight when they travel to Grand Rapids to take on the Griffins at 6 p.m. at Van Andel Arena.

The game can be heard on 1330 AM WNTA, 1380 AM WTJK, www.wnta.com or on Comcast Cable Channel-57 in Rockford. To view the game, go on-line to www.ahllive.com.

After falling 4-2 to the Lake Erie Monsters on Wednesday night at the Rockford MetroCentre, the IceHogs dropped to three-games under .500 for the first time since joining the AHL prior to the 2007-08 season.

The offense has been particularly flat for the Hogs, scoring just 18 goals in regulation and overtime over their past 11 games, an average of 1.64 goals per game. During that stretch the IceHogs have a record of 3-7-0-1.

Offense could be at a premium tonight as Grand Rapids has scored 48 goals in their 19 games played in 2010-11, only three more tallies than Rockford. The Griffins have been blanked three times over their past seven tilts and have the lit just five lamps (.714 goals per game) over that time period. Grand Rapids is 1-5-0-1 in those seven games.

The IceHogs are 3-1-0-0 on the road this season against the AHL’s North Division and are 8-0-0-1 in their last nine games against Grand Rapids dating back to the beginning of the 2009-10 season.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Nov. 27 vs. Peoria Rivermen. Puck drop is at 7:05 p.m. The first 2,500 fans will receive a Jack Skille Bobblehead courtesy of Dental Dimensions and WIFR. The game is the fifth overall on the season between the IceHogs and Rivermen.

RICHARDS SLAMS THE DOOR ON THE GRIFFINS

By: Mike Peck Photo by Greg Hamil Rookie goalie makes 40 saves in 3-2 shootout win

Grand Rapids, Mich.-Rookie goalie Alec Richards made 40 saves and then four more in the shootout to lead the Rockford IceHogs to a 3-2 shootout win over the Grand Rapids Griffins at the Van Andel Arena on Friday.

Rockford is now 9-0-0-1 against the Griffins in the last 10 head-to-head meetings, but eight of those games have been decided by just one goal.

Kyle Beach had an opportunity to give Rockford an early 1-0 lead on Friday with a penalty shot attempt, but the rookie winger was snuffed out by Griffins goalie Jordan Pearce 2:22 into the opening frame.

Brandon Pirri would give Rockford the one-goal advantage, however, at 10:51. Pirri picked up a Ryan Stanton pass as he hopped out of the penalty box and Pirri’s shot from on top of the left face-off circle deflected off of a sprawled out Doug Janik and past Pearce for Pirri’s fifth goal of the season.

In the second period the IceHogs extended their lead to 2-0 with a power-play goal. Nick Leddy’s shot from the left point was redirected past Pearce at 12:12 by Ryan Potulny for his fourth goal of the campaign. Brian Connelly also figured in with an assist.

Grand Rapids cut Rockford’s lead in half when Greg Amadio’s blast from the point was re-directed past Richards by Francis Pare at 14:26 for his fifth tally of the season.

Doug Janik tied the game at 2-2 in the third period just as a 5-on-3 power play expired. Janik snuck a point shot through traffic and under Richards at 4:27 on the power play for his second tally of the year.

In the shootout Richards stymied all four of Grand Rapids’ shooters while Pirri and Beach tallied on Pearce to give the IceHogs a much needed extra standings point.

Rockford went 1-3 on the power play while Grand Rapids was 1-6.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Nov. 27 vs. Peoria Rivermen. Puck drop is at 7:05 p.m. The first 2,500 fans will receive a Jack Skille Bobblehead courtesy of Dental Dimensions and WIFR. The game is the fifth overall on the season between the IceHogs and Rivermen.

ICEHOGS STUFFED BY MONSTERS 4-2

By: Adam Weil Photo by Greg Hamil
11/24/2010 5:00 PM - Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs continued to struggle to find ways to score and fell to the Lake Erie Monsters 4-2 in front of 4,704 people on Thanksgiving Eve at the Rockford MetroCentre.

The Hogs have only found the back of the net eight times in the past six games.

Lake Erie got things started when Patrick Rissmiller chipped in his second goal of the season with the Monsters on a 5-on-3 advantage at 11:39 in the first period. Julian Talbot fired the puck at Hannu Toivonen as he turned it away but the Hogs couldn't clear it and Rissmiller sent it to the back of the net to make it 1-0. Jonas Holos also registered an assist on the play.

The Monsters struck again a few minutes later and extended their lead to 2-0 at 14:07 in the first with a marker by Ryan Stoa. Talbot sent a pass from behind the net to Stoa and he buried it. Ben Walter also factored in with an assist.

Then at 2:37 in the second period, a turnover by the IceHogs in their defensive zone led to another Monsters’ tally. Curtis Fraser put pressure on the Hogs and kept the puck in the Monsters zone. He then sent a cross-ice feed for Stoa to bury his second goal of the game and make it 3-0.

Early in the second period, Jeremey Morin gained the puck in the offensive zone and held back to let Jeff Taffe move past him, then he slipped a short pass onto Taffe's stick. Taffe fired a high wrister over the glove of Jason Bacashihua at 3:56, putting the IceHogs on the board to make it 3-1.

Lake Erie put it back to a three-goal lead at 4-1 when the IceHogs gave up their first short-handed goal of the season. Ray Macias picked up a loose puck and found Mike Carman streaking towards the net. Carman stick handled right and then to his back hand and slipped the puck underneath a sprawling Toivonen at 19:13 in the third period.

Late in the final period after a clearing attempt by the IceHogs moved the puck up to the far blue line, Kyle Hagel raced to gather the loose puck. With speed and momentum he continued down the boards and waited till the last instance to push a one timer pass across to Ben Smith who netted a hard shot past Bacashihua to bring the Hogs back at 4-2.

Toivonen was tagged with the loss after making 26 saves and Bacashihua picked up the win turning away 28 chances.

Rockford was held off the board in four power play opportunities and Lake Erie tallied on 1-of-6 advantages.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Nov. 27 vs. Peoria Rivermen. Puck drop is at 7:05 p.m. The first 2,500 fans will receive a Jack Skille Bobblehead courtesy of Dental Dimensions and WIFR.

OLIMB ACTIVATED FROM IR, LOANED TO ROCKFORD

By: Mike Peck 11/24/2010 3:04 PM - Winger to make IceHogs debut tonight

Chicago, Ill.-The Chicago Blackhawks announced on Wednesday that the National Hockey League club has activated winger Mathis Olimb from the Injured Reserve and loaned him to the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs.

Olimb, 24, is expected to make his AHL and North American debut tonight with Rockford when they take on the Lake Erie Monsters at 6:35 p.m. at the Rockford MetroCentre.

The Oslo, Norway native skated with Frolunda in the Swedish Elite League last season and appeared in 55 games while amassing 9g-25-34pts. The 5-10 winger also represented Norway in the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympic Games. In four games in Vancouver, Olimb marked a pair of assists.

Following his campaign in Frolunda, Olimb rejoined the Norwegian National Team for the World Championships. In six games at the World Championships, Olimb totaled a goal and three assists.

The undrafted winger signed a one-year entry-level contract with the Blackhawks on June 15, 2010.

Next Home Game: Wednesday, Nov. 24 vs. Lake Erie Monsters. Puck drop is at 6:35 p.m. Wednesday nights are Taco Bell Dollar Days at the MetroCentre, which includes dollar hot dogs, beers, sodas and companion tickets. The first 2,500 fans (21 and older) will receive Stanley Cup bottle holders courtesy of Bud Light and WXRX.

THANKSGIVING EVE HOCKEY BACK AT THE METROCENTRE

By: Adam Weil 11/23/2010 10:52 AM -
Rockford, Ill.- Thanksgiving eve hockey is back at the Rockford MetroCentre this year along with several great promotions when the IceHogs play the Lake Erie Monsters on Wednesday, Nov 24 at 6:35 p.m. at the Rockford MetroCentre.

Wednesday is half price jersey day. Fans can buy authentic and premier IceHogs jerseys at Oink Outfitters for half price on Wednesday with the purchase of customization for the jersey. The customization will be done during the game on a first come, first serve basis. Fans must be present during the game to receive the promotion.

Dollar days continue on Wednesday as fans can enjoy $1 beers, hot dogs, sodas and companion tickets thanks to Taco Bell and WXRX. The hot dogs are courtesy of Vienna Beef. During the first intermission there will be a hot dog eating contest.

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

Also on Wednesday, the first 2,500 fans (21 and older) through the door will receive a Stanley Cup bottle holder courtesy of Bud Light and WXRX.

Family four pack tickets can be purchased on Wednesday which includes four mezzanine sideline seats, four hot dogs and sodas.

On Saturday night’s game vs. the Peoria Rivermen, the first 2,500 fans will receive a Jack Skille Bobblehead brought to you by Dental Dimensions and WIFR. The bobblehead will be the first of three in a limited edition series of bobbleheads given out in 2010-11.

For both games there will be a Salvation Army Food Collection. Fans will receive a free ticket to the Dec. 8 game vs. Texas or Dec. 15 game vs. Chicago with a non perishable donation to the Salvation Army. The Salvation Army bins will be located in the MetroCentre Lower Lobby and Box Office. There will be an optional companion ticket for one dollar more included with the free ticket.

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: Wednesday, Nov. 24 vs. Lake Erie Monsters. Puck drop is at 6:35 p.m. Wednesday nights are Taco Bell Dollar Days at the MetroCentre, which includes dollar hot dogs, beers, sodas and companion tickets. The first 2,500 fans (21 and older) will receive Stanley Cup bottle holders courtesy of Bud Light and WXRX.

HOGS GOALTENDING LEADS THEM TO 1-1-0-1 WEEK 7

By: Mike Peck
11/22/2010 11:15 AM

11/22/2010 11:15 AM - The Rockford IceHogs received outstanding goaltending in Week 7 of the 2010-11 American Hockey League regular season and finished the week with a 1-1-0-1 record in three road games. The goaltending combination of Hannu Toivonen and Alec Richards combined for a .956 save percentage and a 1.31 goals against average. After a five-game road swing, the IceHogs return home for two of three games on the Week 8 slate.

Week 7 Results
Thursday, Nov. 18: Rockford 1 at Manitoba 0
Friday, Nov. 19: Rockford 1 at Manitoba 3
Sunday, Nov. 21: Rockford 2 at Peoria 3 SO

Week 8 Schedule
Wednesday, Nov. 24 vs. Lake Erie, 6:35 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 26 at Grand Rapids, 6 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 27 vs. Peoria, 7:05 p.m.

Bacon Bits:
Rockford finished their five-game road swing with a record of 1-3-0-1

Goalie Hannu Toivonen has a save percentage of .925 and a goals against average of 2.08 over his past six games

Goalie Alec Richards has a .910 save percentage and a 2.99 goals against average over his last six games

Combined, Rockford’s goalies have a save percentage of .917 and a goals against average of 2.48 over that 12 game span

Over Rockford’s last 12 games the team has scored 24 goals

The IceHogs are 4-6-0-2 in their past 12 games

Rockford had a team season-high 20 shots on goal in the second period on Sunday in Peoria

The single-period shot total was the highest since 11/20/09 when Rockford had 23 shots in the second period at Chicago

Rookie winger Jeremy Morin has a three-game point streak (2g-1a)

Defenseman Brian Connelly notched his first goal of the season on Sunday in Peoria and leads Rockford with 12 assists and 13 points

Rookie defenseman Nick Leddy accumulated his first career multi-assist game (2a) on Sunday and now has 2g-6a in 13 games

With their 1-0 win on Thursday in Manitoba, Rockford played in two 1-0 contests in three games

Coming into the season, Rockford had played three 1-0 games in three AHL seasons

Hot Hog Week 6:
Hannu Toivonen Goaltender
Rockford’s puckstopper Hannu Toivonen turned away 67 of 69 shots faced during Week 7 of the 2010-11 AHL regular season and carried a record of 1-1-0-0. On Thursday night in Manitoba, Toivonen blocked all 29 Moose shots to lead Rockford to a 1-0 shutout. The next night at the MTS Centre Toivonen turned in a season-best 38 saves in Rockford’s 3-1 loss to the Moose and completed Week 7 with a .971 save percentage and a 1.02 goals against average.

Upcoming Games:
Wednesday, Nov. 24 vs. Lake Erie Monsters: Puck drop is at 6:35 p.m. Wednesday nights are Taco Bell Dollar Days at the MetroCentre, which includes dollar hot dogs, beers, sodas and companion tickets. The first 2,500 fans (21 and older) will receive Stanley Cup bottle holders courtesy of Bud Light and WXRX.

Friday, Nov. 26 at Grand Rapids Griffins: Game time is slated for 6 p.m. The IceHogs return to the road to face-off against the Grand Rapids Griffins on Friday night. The game is the first of three at the Van Andel Arena for Rockford in 2010-11 and second of six meetings with the Griffins overall this season.

Saturday, Nov. 27 vs. Peoria Rivermen: The game begins at 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs complete Week 8 when the Rivermen visit the Rockford MetroCentre for a second time this season. The first 2,500 fans to the game will receive a Jack Skille bobble head courtesy of Dental Dimensions and 23 WIFR.

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 Matt Prefontaine and Courtney King from 6-7 p.m. tonight as they chat with IceHogs players, coaches and front office members. This week’s guests include IceHogs wingers Brandon Bollig and goaltenders Alec Richards along with the 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.

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.

PEORIA OUTLASTS ROCKFORD IN THE SHOOTOUT

By: Mike Peck 11/21/2010 7:00 AM

Photo by Kevin Orris
11/21/2010 7:00 AM - IceHogs earn a point in the shootout loss

Peoria, Ill.-Looking to snag an extra point before returning home from a five-game road swing, the Rockford IceHogs couldn’t sneak by the Peoria Rivermen in the shootout, falling 3-2 at Carver Arena on Sunday.

The IceHogs return home with a 1-3-0-1 record on a trip where they scored just six goals.

Nathan Oystrick gave Peoria a 1-0 first period lead. Oystrick followed up a Derek Nesbitt rebound and hammered his fourth goal of the season over the shoulder of Alec Richards at 9:54 of the opening frame.

In the second period Rockford tied the game at 1-1 moments after a power play expired. Nick Leddy found Jeremy Morin on the left wing and the rookie forward notched his team best sixth goal of the season, beating Jake Allen at :23.

The RIvermen responded with a power-play goal from David Spina. Spina was sprung on a breakaway from Ian Cole and beat Richards five hole at 3:57.

Brian Connelly later notched his first goal of the season to tie the game at 2-2. Connelly picked up a Rob Klinkhammer pass and snuck his first goal through traffic and past Allen at 9:44 of the middle frame.

The IceHogs fired a season-high 20 in on Allen in the second period, the most shots that Rockford has accumulated in a period since Nov. 20, 2009 when they had 23 shots in the second period against the Chicago Wolves.

After a scoreless overtime, the game went to a shootout that lasted six rounds. After Hugh Jessiman tied the shootout in round five for the IceHogs, Peoria won it when Oystrick blasted his chance past Richards in the sixth round.

Rockford also racked up a season-high 41 shots on goal while holding Peoria to 25 shots. The IceHogs were held scoreless on the power play while allowing one power-play goal on five chances against.

Next Home Game: Wednesday, Nov. 24 vs. Lake Erie Monsters. Puck drop is at 6:35 p.m. Wednesday nights are Taco Bell Dollar Days at the MetroCentre, which includes dollar hot dogs, beers, sodas and companion tickets. The first 2,500 fans (21 and older) will receive Stanley Cup bottle holders courtesy of Bud Light and WXRX.

HOGS CAN’T HOLD TOIVONEN’S 38 SAVES UP IN MANITOBA

By: Mike Peck 11/19/2010 11:43 AM

Photo courtesy Manitoba Moose
11/19/2010 11:43 AM - Rockford drops a 3-1 decision to the Moose

Winnipeg, Man.- A second straight strong showing by Hannu Toivonen went for not by the Rockford IceHogs on Friday night as they fell 3-1 to the Manitoba Moose at the MTS Centre. Toivonen made 38 saves one night after shutting out the Moose on 29 saves.

Scoreless heading into the third period, Manitoba would finally crack Toivonen on their 66th shot of the weekend. On the power play, rookie winger Jordan Schroeder blasted his second goal of the season over the glove shoulder of Toivonen at 7:02.

Schroeder later tacked on his second goal of the night when he cleaned up a Mario Bliznak rebound on the back door at the 7:00 mark of the final frame. Then with Toivonen on the bench Jeff Tambellini buried an empty net goal at 18:07 making it 3-0.

Rockford would ruin Tyler Weiman’s shutout when Jeremy Morin snuck in his team-leading fifth goal of the season at 19:05 of the third, set up by Kyle Beach.

Despite getting outshot 16-4 in the first period on Friday night, the IceHogs skated into the first intermission scoreless. Toivonen turned away all 16 Moose attempts while Weiman made four saves for Manitoba.

The second frame wasn’t much different than the first and the game remained scoreless at the second break. Manitoba sprinkled 15 shots in on Toivonen while Weiman faced nine Rockford attempts. Both goalies, however, were up to the task once again.

The contest marked the third straight in which Rockford held Manitoba scoreless after 40 minutes, but the IceHogs only won two of those contests. Overall Rockford was outshot 41-23 in the contest. Rockford finished 1-7 on the power play while Manitoba was 1-5.

Next Home Game: Wednesday, Nov. 24 vs. Lake Erie Monsters. Puck drop is at 6:35 p.m. Wednesday nights are Taco Bell Dollar Days at the MetroCentre, which includes dollar hot dogs, beers, sodas and companion tickets. The first 2,500 fans (21 and older) will receive Stanley Cup bottle holders courtesy of Bud Light and WXRX.

TOIVONEN, ROCKFORD BLANK MANITOBA 1-0

By: Mike Peck 11/18/2010 8:00 AM

Photo courtesy Manitoba Moose
11/18/2010 8:00 AM - Hogs puck stopper turns away all 29 Moose shots

Winnipeg, Man.- Apparently goals are hard to come by on Thursdays. For the second straight Thursday the Rockford IceHogs were involved in a 1-0 game and this time around they came out on top.

Behind 29 Hannu Toivonen saves the IceHogs blanked Manitoba 1-0 on Thursday night at the MTS Centre, ending a two-game skid overall and against the Moose. Rockford was shutout last Thursday in San Antonio against the Rampage.

Rockford came out hard on Thursday night and the early first period pressure in the Manitoba zone resulted in a goal. Igor Makarov picked up a Moose turnover in their own zone and found Brandon Pirri backdoor and the rookie winger buried his fourth goal of the season at 5:39 of the opening frame.

After a scoreless second period, Rockford carried their 1-0 lead into the second intermission. Rockford peppered Eddie Lack with 11 second period shots while Toivonen faced 10 Moose attempts in the scoreless frame.

The IceHogs dominated the first half of the third period, outshooting Manitoba 10-1 through the first 10 minutes. The Moose, however, kept battling down the stretch but Toivonen turned away all of Manitoba’s chances.

Power plays were at a premium as the game featured just three minor penalties. Rockford was 0-1 on the power while Manitoba was 0-2.

Next Home Game: Wednesday, Nov. 24 vs. Lake Erie Monsters. Puck drop is at 6:35 p.m. Wednesday nights are Taco Bell Dollar Days at the MetroCentre, which includes dollar hot dogs, beers, sodas and companion tickets. The first 2,500 fans (21 and older) will receive Stanley Cup bottle holders courtesy of Bud Light and WXRX.

JERSEYS ARE 50% OFF ON NOV. 24

By: Adam Weil 11/17/2010 9:22 AM - Rockford, Ill.- Black Friday specials come early this year with several promotions during the Rockford IceHogs games next week when the IceHogs play the Lake Erie Monsters on Wednesday, Nov 24 at 6:35 p.m. and Peoria Rivermen on Saturday, Nov. 27 at 7:05 p.m. at the Rockford MetroCentre.

Wednesday is half price jersey day. Fans can buy authentic and premier IceHogs jerseys at Oink Outfitters for half price on Wednesday with the purchase of customization for the jersey. The customization will be done during the game on a first come, first serve basis.

Dollar days continue on Wednesday as fans can enjoy $1 beers, hot dogs, sodas and companion tickets thanks to Taco Bell and WXRX.

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

Also on Wednesday, the first 2,500 fans (21 and older) through the door will receive a Stanley Cup bottle holder courtesy of Bud Light and WXRX.

On Saturday, the first 2,500 fans will receive a Jack Skille Bobblehead brought to you by Dental Dimensions and WIFR. The Jack Skille Bobblehead will be the first of three in a limited edition series of bobbleheads given out in 2010-11.

For both games there will be a Salvation Army Food Collection. Fans will receive a free ticket to the Dec. 8 game vs. Texas or Dec. 15 game vs. Chicago with a non perishable donation to the Salvation Army. The Salvation Army bins will be located in the MetroCentre Lower Lobby and Box Office. There will be an optional companion ticket for one dollar more included with the free ticket.

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: Wednesday, Nov. 24 vs. Lake Erie Monsters. Puck drop is at 6:35 p.m. Wednesday nights are Taco Bell Dollar Days at the MetroCentre, which includes dollar hot dogs, beers, sodas and companion tickets. The first 2,500 fans (21 and older) will receive Stanley Cup bottle holders courtesy of Bud Light and WXRX.

DON’T FORGET TO VOTE FOR THE ICEHOGS THIRD BOBBLEHEAD GIVEAWAY

By: Nate Haeni 11/16/2010 3:27 PM -
Rockford, Ill.- Time is running out for fans to vote for the Rockford IceHogs third bobblehead giveaway slated for Saturday, March 19.

As a part of the IceHogs 2010-11 bobblehead series, fans have an opportunity to vote for the third bobblehead in the three-player set. To submit a vote, text “A” for Bryan Bickell, “B” for Troy Brouwer or “C” for Niklas Hjalmarsson to 88572. The last day that fans can submit their vote is Nov. 30. All wireless service providers are accepted.

Fans can also visit the U.S. Cellular fan zone during the next two IceHogs home games to cast their vote.

The other two bobblehead giveaways in the series are scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 27 (Jack Skille) and Jan. 8 (Kyle Beach).

For more information about giveaways visit icehogs.com/schedule/promotions or to order
tickets, call the IceHogs office at (815) 847-5222 .

Next Home Game: Wednesday, Nov. 24 vs. Lake Erie Monsters. Puck drop is at 6:35 p.m. Wednesday nights are Taco Bell Dollar Days at the MetroCentre, which includes dollar hot dogs, beers, sodas and companion tickets. The first 2,500 fans (21 and older) will receive Stanley Cup bottle holders courtesy of Bud Light and WXRX.

ROCKFORD TAKES ONE OF THREE IN WEEK 6

11/15/2010 2:24 PM - Week 6 Recap
Rockford finished Week 6 of the 2010-11 American Hockey League regular season with a record of 1-2-0-0. The IceHogs won for the first time against Peoria this season in convinving fashion on Tuesday. The IceHogs then dropped a pair against San Antonio on the road, however, both games were decieded by one goal against the first place Rampage. The IceHogs look to build off of Week 6 in their three upcoming road games in Week 7.

Week 6 Results
Tuesday, Nov. 9 Peoria 1 vs. Rockford 4
Thursday, Nov. 11 Rockford 0 at San Antonio 1
Friday, Nov. 12 Rockford 2 at San Antonio 3

Week 7 Schedule
Thursday, Nov. 18 at Manitoba, 7:30 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 19 at Manitoba, 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 21 at Peoria, 3:05 p.m.

Bacon Bits:
Rockford has dropped their first two games in a five-game road swing that continues on Thursday in Manitoba against the Moose

Ryan Potulny accumulated Rockford’s second three-point game this season when he notched a goal and two assists against Peoria last Tuesday

Brian Connelly also had three points (3a) on Oct. 23 against Chicago

With his two assists on Friday, Connelly now leads Rockford with 11 points, all helpers

The IceHogs had a team-season high 38 shots on goal on Friday in their 3-2 loss at San Antonio

That is the most shots Rockford has had since they accumulated 37 shots at San Antonio on April 10 and 36 shots at San Antonio on March 6

Kyle Hagel is second in the AHL with eight major penalties

After starting the season killing off just four of their first 12 penalties (33.3%) Rockford has killed off 54 of their last 62 (90.3%)

Overall the IceHogs penalty kill has climbed to 19th in the AHL at 81.1%

Rockford’s 1-0 loss at San Antonio on Thursday marked the first time in the team’s AHL era that they lost by that score

The IceHogs have racked up 30 or more shots on goal in four straight games, the first time that they’ve done that since a five-game stretch from 11/18/09-11/27/09

Hot Hog Week 6:
Ryan Potulny Center
Rockford center Ryan Potulny turned in the IceHogs second three-point game of the 2010-11 season during Week 6 and led the Hogs with four overall points. Potulny had a goal and two assists in Wednesday’s 4-1 win over Peoria and was named the game’s #1 Star. Potulny also chipped in an assist in Rockford’s 3-2 loss at San Antonio on Friday. Overall, Potulny ranks second on the IceHogs with 10 points this season.

Upcoming Games:
Thursday, Nov. 18 at Manitoba Moose: Puck drop is at 7:30 p.m. The game marks the half way point of a five game road stretch for the IceHogs and the first of two against Manitoba in back-to-back games at the MTS Centre.

Friday, Nov. 19 at Manitoba Moose: Game time is slated for 7:30 p.m. Rockford will play the Moose for the second time in two nights at the MTS Centre. The game is the fourth and final time the IceHogs and the Moose will meet in 2010-11.

Sunday, Nov. 21 at Peoria Rivermen: The game begins at 3:05 p.m. Rockford returns to the ice at Carver Arenar to play the Rivermen for the fourth time in 2010-11. The game is the third of four meetings between the IceHogs and Rivermen in November.

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. tonight as they chat with IceHogs players, coaches and front office members. This week’s guests include IceHogs defensemen Nick Leddy and Simon Danis-Pepin along with the IceHogs 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.

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 .

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.

SECOND PERIOD MISTAKES COST ROCKFORD IN SAN ANTONIO

Photo by Darren Abate
11/12/2010 10:34 AM - Leddy, Connelly tally two points in 3-2 loss

San Antonio, Tex.- Defensive zone turnovers were costly for the Rockford IceHogs on Friday night as they dropped a 3-2 decision to the San Antonio Rampage at the AT&T Center. Two miscues led to a pair of second period Rampage goals.

San Antonio first capitalized on a Rockford turnover in the second period to grab a 1-0 lead. Mikkel Boedker picked off a Jeremy Morin pass in the Rockford zone and found Brett MacLean all alone in front of Alec Richards and the winger flipped in his eighth goal of the season at 8:06.

Rockford tied it on the power play at 9:37 of the middle stanza. Nick Leddy’s slap shot from the point deflected off of Hugh Jessiman and past Al Montoya for his second goal of the season. Brian Connelly also figured in on the scoring with an assist.

But San Antonio struck twice more before the period ended. Just as a power-play expired, Alexandre Picard found Mathieu Beaudoin on the backdoor and the winger buried his ninth goal of the season at 16:57.

Another defensive-zone turnover cost Rockford at 18:04 of the second period. Chris Summers picked off a pass and found Boedker between the circles and the winger beat Richards glove side for his third goal of the campaign and a 3-1 lead.

Leddy made it a 3-2 game at 3:20 of the third period. Connelly found Leddy after a face-off win by Ryan Potulny and the first-year d-man blasted his second goal of the season past Montoya.

That’s all that Rockford could muster on Montoya and the Rampage despite accumulating a team season-high 38 shots on goal. Richards took the loss for the second straight night after making 26 saves.

Rockford held San Antonio off the power play on six chances while the IceHogs converted 1-5 on the advantage.

Next Home Game: Wednesday, Nov. 24 vs. Lake Erie Monsters. Puck drop is at 6:35 p.m. Wednesday nights are Taco Bell Dollar Days at the MetroCentre, which includes dollar hot dogs, beers, sodas and companion tickets. The first 2,500 fans will receive Stanley Cup bottle holders courtesy of Bud Light and WXRX.

RICHARDS 37 SAVES NOT ENOUGH IN 1-0 LOSS

By: Mike Peck
11/11/2010 9:00 AM

Photo by Greg Hamil
11/11/2010 9:00 AM - San Antonio, Tex.- Alec Richards deserved a better fate on Thursday night in San Antonio, but the Rockford IceHogs offense stalled out and the Hogs dropped a 1-0 decision to Matt Climie and the Rampage.

San Antonio broke the stalemate at 8:03 of the third period. Rockford winger Brandon Pirri skated a puck into traffic in the San Antonio zone and Mathieu Beaudoin countered in transition. Beaudoin found Alexandre Picard streaking to the goal and the winger tipped his eighth goal of the season over Richards for the game’s only goal.

Short-handed for the final two minutes of regulation, Rockford had a couple of chances in the offensive zone but couldn’t solve Matt Climie who finished the night with 30 saves and his second shutout.

Richards was the tough luck loser on Thursday as he made 37 saves in the loss.

Thursday’s game featured a scoreless first and second period. Richards turned away all 15 San Antonio shots he faced while Climie blocked all six Rockford attempts.

Both goalies stood tall in the second period, especially Richards who turned away 16 more San Antonio shots on goal. Rockford peppered Climie with 12 shots, but the Rampage puckstopper turned them all away.

Rockford’s power play was stagnant going 0-6 on the night while holding San Antonio to 0-5.

Next Home Game: Wednesday, Nov. 24 vs. Lake Erie Monsters. Puck drop is at 6:35 p.m. Wednesday nights are Taco Bell Dollar Days at the MetroCentre, which includes dollar hot dogs, beers, sodas and companion tickets. The first 2,500 fans will receive Stanley Cup bottle holders courtesy of Bud Light and WXRX.

HOGS AND JUNIOR ICEHOGS HIT THE ICE AGAIN IN 2010-11

By: Nate Haeni

11/10/2010 3:32 PM -
Rockford, Ill. – The Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League are teaming up with the Rockford Park District and the Junior IceHogs Youth Hockey program again in 2010-11.

Players and coaches from the 2010-11 IceHogs squad will make appearances throughout the season at Junior IceHogs practices at Riverview Ice House and Carlson Ice Arena. The players will help out at practice, working with the kids and running drills.

In 2009-10, IceHogs players, coaches and staff made 67 visits throughout the Rockford community to youth hockey practices, schools and hospitals.

For more information about the IceHogs involvement with the Junior IceHogs, visit icehogs.com/schedule/community.

Next Home Game: Wednesday, Nov. 24 vs. Lake Erie Monsters. Puck drop is at 6:35 p.m. Wednesday nights are Taco Bell Dollar Days at the MetroCentre, which includes dollar hot dogs, beers, sodas and companion tickets. The first 2,500 fans will receive Stanley Cup bottle holders courtesy of Bud Light and WXRX.

HOGS REBOUND AND KNOCK OFF PEORIA 4-1

By: Nate Haeni

11/09/2010 6:00 PM -
Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs defeated the Peoria Rivermen in a 4-1 battle on Wednesday night at the Rockford MetroCentre.

And it was literally a battle between the IceHogs and Rivermen as both teams combined for 158 penalty minutes.

After the Hogs went 0-for-7 on the power play on Sunday in Peoria, Rockford was destined to take advantage of the extra man as they converted on their first opportunity to take a 1-0 lead. The IceHogs got the scoring started when Ryan Potulny found Kyle Beach with a cross ice feed and Beach buried his fourth goal of the season at 7:42 in the first period. Shawn Lalonde also chipped in with a helper on the play.

The IceHogs extended their lead to 2-0 when Jeremy Morin knocked in his fourth marker on the campaign. Igor Makarov set up the play keeping the puck in the offensive zone trying to find an open IceHogs skater near the crease. Peoria blocked Makarov's pass attempt but couldn't clear the puck and Brandon Pirri backhanded it back at Ben Bishop. Bishop kicked it aside but Morin was right there to tap in the goal at 12:36 in the first.

Then, with 15 seconds left in the period the IceHogs made it 3-0 with a Nick Leddy marker. Potulny found Leddy at the point and he fired the puck to the back of the net at 19:45. Beach was credited with an assist on the play.

Rockford came right back in the second period and added their second power-play goal in as many chances to make it 4-0. Lalonde dished the puck to Beach who blasted the puck towards the net. Bishop let the rebound slip out to Potulny who was able to control it and flip it in as he was stumbling to the ice at 1:55.

The Rivermen got in on the scoring action when they converted on a 5-on-3 advantage after a large scrum between the two clubs. Peoria kept cycling the puck up top from side-to-side. Peoria's Adam Cracknell worked the puck to Derek Peltier on the point and found Mark Cundari across the blue line for a one-timer past Alec Richards at 3:53 to make it 4-1.

That’s all the Rivermen could muster as the Hogs held them to 1-for-7 on the power play and Rockford converted on 2-of-5. Richards picked up the win turning away 20 shots and Bishop was tagged with his fifth loss on the season.

Next Home Game: Wednesday, Nov. 24 vs. Lake Erie Monsters. Puck drop is at 6:35 p.m. Wednesday nights are Taco Bell Dollar Days at the MetroCentre, which includes dollar hot dogs, beers, sodas and companion tickets. The first 2,500 fans will receive Stanley Cup bottle holders courtesy of Bud Light and WXRX.

BLACKHAWKS ASSIGN MORIN TO ROCKFORD

By: Adam Rogowin

11/08/2010 10:51 AM - Chicago, Ill.-The Chicago Blackhawks have assigned forward Jeremy Morin to the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs.

Morin, 19, made his National Hockey League debut on Nov. 6 at Philips Arena against the Atlanta Thrashers and registered four shots on goal, two blocked shots and one takeaway in two games with the Blackhawks. He leads Rockford with three power-play goals and has tallied four points (3G, A) in eight AHL tilts this year in his professional debut.

Originally acquired in a trade with the Atlanta Thrashers on June 24, 2010, Morin tied for fourth in the Ontario Hockey League with 47 goals and ranked 12th with 83 points in 58 regular-season games in his rookie season with the Kitchener Rangers during the 2009-10 campaign. The Auburn, New York, native captured a Gold Medal with Team USA at the 2010 World Junior Championships, collecting five assists and seven points in seven games during the tournament.

Next Home Game: Tuesday, Nov. 9 vs. Peoria Rivermen. The game starts at 6:35 p.m. The back-end of a home-and-home series with Peoria at the Rockford MetroCentre. The visit by the Rivermen is the first of five on the season to Rockford.

OFFENSE SLUMPING FOR ROCKFORD

By: Mike Peck

Photo by Scott Paulus
11/08/2010 10:18 AM - Hogs nab a win in Week 5

Week 5 Recap
A game they probably shouldn’t have won. A game that got away. And another that wasn’t close. Rockford finished Week 5 of the 2010-11 American Hockey League regular season with a record of 1-2-0-0. The IceHogs managed just four goals in regulation during the week and look to get the offense back on track in Week 6 with the three contests slated.

Wednesday, Nov. 3: Rockford IceHogs 3 at Milwaukee Admirals 2 SO
Saturday, Nov. 6: Manitoba Moose 3 vs. Rockford IceHogs 1
Sunday, Nov. 7: Rockford IceHogs 1 at Peoria Rivermen 5

Week 6 Schedule
Tuesday, Nov. 9 vs. Peoria, 6:35 p.m.
Thursday, Nov. 11 at San Antonio, 7 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 12 at San Antonio, 7 p.m.

Bacon Bits:
-Rockford has three wins this season when trailing entering the third period after accumulating just four all of last season

-The IceHogs have tallied just six goals in regulation over their past four games

-Through five weeks, Rockford ranks fourth in the AHL giving up just 26.58 shots per game

-The team’s 3.50 goals against average ranks 28th in the AHL

-Jeremy Morin made his NHL debut on Wednesday for Chicago, the fifth different IceHogs skater to make his NHL debut this season

-Evan Brophey, Ben Smith, Brandon Pirri and Nick Leddy also played in their first NHL game in 2010-11

-With their 3-1 loss against Manitoba on Saturday, Rockford has now lost four-straight home games against the Moose

-Sunday’s loss at Peoria marked the first time this season in which the IceHogs didn’t follow a regulation loss with a win

-Rockford is now 4-1-0-0 in games following a regulation loss

-The IceHogs haven’t won in regulation since Oct. 15, a 5-0 win at Abbotsford

-Rookie winger Brandon Pirri leads all AHL skaters with three shootout goals

-The IceHogs drew a season-high crowd of 5,593 on Saturday against Manitoba

-Last season Rockford didn’t draw a crowd over 5,000 until Jan. 13

Hot Hog Week 5:
Rookie winger Ben Smith, fresh off of his first career NHL recall to the Chicago Blackhawks, tallied a pair of points during Week 5 of the AHL regular season. Smith set up Rockford’s first goal on Wednesday in Milwaukee during Rockford’s 3-2 come-from-behind shootout victory over the Admirals. The Avon, Conn. native then potted Rockford’s only goal on Saturday in a 3-1 loss against Manitoba.

Photo by Greg Hamil
Upcoming Games:
Tuesday, Nov. 9 vs. Peoria Rivermen: Puck drop is at 6:35 p.m. The back-end of a home-and-home series with the Peoria Rivermen concludes at the MetroCentre. All military veterans will receive free admission to the game in honor of Veteran’s Day this week.

Thursday, Nov. 11 at San Antonio Rampage: Game time is slated for 7p.m. Rockford travels to the Lone Star State for the first time this season to open up a two-game set against the Rampage at the AT&T Center. The game is the first of six on the campaign between the West Division foes.

Friday, Nov. 12 at San Antonio Rampage: The game begins at 7p.m. Rockford returns to the ice at the AT&T Center for the second straight night to battle former IceHogs Bracken Kearns, Pete MacArthur and the rest of Rampage in San Antonio. The game is second of three in the Alamo City in 2010-11.

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 Matt Prefontaine and Courtney King from 6-7 p.m. tonight as they chat with IceHogs players, coaches and front office members. This week’s guests include IceHogs forwards Hugh Jessiman and Brandon Pirri along with developmental goaltending coach Wade Flaherty. Stop by and take advantage of some great food and Bud Light specials. If you can’t make it, tune into 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 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.

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.

RIVERMEN, SHATTOCK SHELLAC ICEHOGS 5-1

By: Mike Peck

11/06/2010 10:06 PM - Rookie winger tallies three points against Rockford

Peoria, Ill.- Tyler Shattock was held without a point in his first 10 games of the 2010-11 season. That all changed on Sunday as the rookie winger led the Peoria Rivermen to a 5-1 win over the Rockford IceHogs on Sunday at Carver Arena as he tallied a goal and two assists.

Peoria notched the game’s first goal at 3:11 of the first period. Anthon Nigro beat Alec Richards with a shot from on top of the right face-off circle in the Rockford zone for his first goal of the season. Shattock found Nigro streaking into the IceHogs zone and the winger surprised Richards with his first marker of the year.

Later in the period Stefan Della Rovere knocked a Shattock rebound past Richards at 16:02 to extend the Rivermen lead to 2-0.

Rockford reduced the Peoria lead before the first intermission when Hugh Jessiman notched his first goal of the season. Rob Klinkhammer found Jessiman on the left post and the winger beat Jake Allen at 18:19.

In the second period Peoria tallied on the power play to extend their lead to 3-1. Mark Cundari held in an IceHogs clear-out pass and slapped his second goal of the season past Richards at 10:16 of the middle stanza.

The power play put Peoria on top 4-1 in the third period. T.J. Hensick picked up a puck off the back half-wall from a Derek Peltier shot and knocked in his fourth goal of the campaign at 10:34. Shattock finished off the scoring when he potted his first goal of the campaign off of a Hensick pass at 19:20 of the third.

Rockford outshot Peoria 32-24 in the game, but Allen was too much in goal and picked up his third straight win. Richards was tagged with the loss after making 19 saves.

Next Home Game: Tuesday, Nov. 9 vs. Peoria Rivermen. The game starts at 6:35 p.m. The back-end of a home-and-home series with Peoria at the Rockford MetroCentre. The visit by the Rivermen is the first of five on the season to Rockford.

ROCKFORD FALLS 3-1 AFTER LATE MOOSE GOALS

By: Matt Cashen

11/06/2010 8:00 AM - Rockford, Ill.- The Manitoba Moose knocked off the Rockford IceHogs 3-1 after the Moose rattled off three third period goals on Saturday in front of 5,593 fans at the Rockford MetroCentre.

Tonight's matchup looked nothing like the scoring barrage that was seen earlier in the contest between the two clubs. The outcome, however, ended up the same as the IceHogs fell victim to a late third period goal surge by the Moose.

While the IceHogs kept a handle on the action late, a Moose goal by Cody Hodgson over the glove of Hannu Toivonen at 15:20, changed the momentum quickly. Travis Ramsey received an assist on the netter, to make it all square at 1-1.

Manitoba was able to quickly snatch the lead when Jeff Tambellini was found between the circles at 16:47, to make it a 2-1 Moose lead. Mario Bliznak and Kevin Clark factored in with assists on the play.

Immediately following the two goals, Manitoba all but sealed up the victory, when Tambellini netted his second of the game at 16:47. Baumgartner added to his point total by receiving an assist on the play. Tambellini's goal deflated the IceHogs chances at getting back to tie the contest.

The first period saw back and forth action with Manitoba leading the way in terms of shots 6-5, due in part to two power-play opportunities. The IceHogs best scoring opportunity came late in the first period when Garnet Exelby found a streaking Rob Klinkhammer on a breakaway, but Klinkhammer was unable to convert.

The second period saw more of the same in terms of special teams, with both teams squandering power play chances. Despite both teams being scoreless, Rockford was able to control the offensive action during the period outshooting the Moose 16-4. Manitoba's goaltender Eddie Lack continued to come up big and hold the IceHogs from getting on the board.

With the IceHogs continuing to control pressure within the Moose zone, the Hogs found themselves on the man advantage again in the third period and they were finally able to convert with a Ben Smith tally to take a 1-0 lead at 5:02. Lack, turned away Shawn Lalonde’s initial shot from the point but Smith was right there to chip in his second goal of the season. Igor Makarov was also credited with an assist.

The IceHogs went 1-for-8 on the power play, while Manitoba went 0-for-5. Lack picked up the win turning away 28 chances. Toivonen was tagged with the loss after stopping 18 shots.

Next Home Game: Tuesday, Nov. 9 vs. Peoria Rivermen. Puck drop is at 6:35 p.m. This will be the only Tuesday game at the MetroCentre in 2010-11. The game is the back-end of a home-and-home series against Peoria.

EXELBY NAMED FOURTH CAPTAIN IN HOGS AHL ERA

By: Mike Peck

Photo by Jim Orlando
11/05/2010 2:37 PM - Veteran defenseman will dawn the “C” for Rockford

Rockford, Ill.- Rockford IceHogs Head Coach Bill Peters announced on Saturday that Garnet Exelby has been named team captain of the American Hockey League club.

Exelby is in his ninth professional season and has spent the past six full campaigns in the National Hockey League. Last year, the Ste. Anne, Manitoba native skated with the Toronto Maple Leafs and registered a goal and three assists in 51 games.

“What separates Garnet Exelby is his NHL experience and the enthusiasm that he brings to the rink every day,” said Peters. “We are very happy and comfortable with Garnet and the leadership that he brings.

“We’ve got a good leadership group here in the room with six or seven players that really stand out. Jeff Taffe will have a permanent “A” while Evan Brophey and Wade Brookbank will be on a 10-game rotation with the second “A”. Rob Klinkhammer has also emerged as a leader, along with Ryan Potulny and Hannu Toivonen.”

The 6-1 defenseman has appeared in 408 career NHL games entering the 2010-11 season. Drafted by the Atlanta Thrashers in the eighth round (#217 overall) of the 1999 NHL Entry Draft, Exelby played the majority of his first two professional campaigns with the Chicago Wolves (AHL).

In two seasons in Chicago, Exelby played in 128 games with the Wolves and was a member of the 2002 Calder Cup Championship club.

Exelby is the fourth team captain in Rockford’s AHL era joining Jim Fahey (2007-08), Tim Brent (2008-09) and Jake Dowell (2009-10). .

VIENNA BEEF NAMED OFFICIAL HOT DOG OF THE ICEHOGS, METROCENTRE

By: Mike Peck

11/05/2010 2:12 PM - World famous hot dogs is sausage of choice at the MetroCentre

Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford MetroCentre, Rockford IceHogs and Chicago-based Vienna Beef announced on Friday that Vienna Beef has been named the official hot dog of the Rockford MetroCentre and the IceHogs, members of the American Hockey League.

Every concession stand at the MetroCentre will now feature Vienna Beef hot dogs beginning on Tuesday, Nov. 9 when the IceHogs take on the Peoria Rivermen at 6:35 p.m.

"Vienna Beef is thrilled to be the Official Hot Dog of the Rockford MetroCentre and IceHogs,” said Vienna Beef Vice President of Marketing Keith Smith. “We are looking forward to a long standing relationship with the venue and the people of Rockford. Now the next generation of hockey greats will be feasting on the same hot dog served at the United Center to Chicago's Stanley Cup Champions."

In addition, Vienna Beef will sponsor the "Vienna Beef Ice Box ", a one-of-a-kind experience located ice level, next to the IceHogs bench, which includes six tickets along with complimentary hot dogs and soft drinks for $240. For more information or to purchase tickets for the "Vienna Beef Ice Box" call (815) 847-6399.

Other Vienna Beef branding throughout the MetroCentre includes the renaming of the "Top Dog" concession stand located in the upper concourse and the display of Vienna Beef neon signs at other concession stands in the building.

Vienna Beef will also be the featured hot dog for the IceHogs “Taco Bell Dollar Days” promotion on Wednesday. All hot dogs are $1 on Dollar Days.

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.

BLACKHAWKS RECALL MORIN

By: Adam Weil

11/05/2010 9:31 AM - Chicago, Ill.-The Chicago Blackhawks announced on Friday that the National Hockey League club has recalled forward Jeremy Morin from the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League.

Morin, 19, earns his first career NHL recall. The Auburn, New York native has skated in eight games with Rockford in 2010-11 and has tallied three goals and one assist.

Morin, Atlanta’s second round selection (#45 overall) in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, was acquired in a trade from Atlanta on June 24, 2010 along with a 1st and 2nd round pick in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, Marty Reasoner and Joey Crabb in exchange for Dustin Byfuglien, Brent Sopel, Ben Eager and Akim Aliu.

Chicago takes on the Atlanta Thrashers tomorrow night at the Phillips Arena at 6 p.m.

Morin is the sixth player to get recalled from Rockford to Chicago this season joining Brandon Pirri, Jassen Cullimore, Evan Brophey, Ben Smith and Ryan Potulny. Rockford has had 29 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

TAFFE LEADS HOGS TO COMEBACK WIN OVER MILWAUKEE

By: Mike Peck

11/02/2010 -
Hogs battle back from 2-0 third period deficit

Milwaukee, Wis.- Sporting a mean mustache for Movember, Rockford IceHogs veteran center Jeff Taffe helped lead an IceHogs 3-2 come-from-behind victory over the Milwaukee Admirals on Wednesday night at the Bradley Center

With Hannu Toivonen on the bench for the extra attacker, Brandon Pirri won a key face-off late in the third frame in the offensive zone. Igor Makarov on the right wing fired a perfect feed to Taffe in front of the Admirals net and the center tipped in the equalizer at 18:51 to send the game to overtime.

Neither team scored in the OT, so for the third time this season Rockford went to a shootout. Tied 3-3 in round five, Taffe ended the contest with his first shootout goal of the season.

Jamie Lundmark gave Milwaukee a first period lead. After a Rockford icing, the Admirals won the offensive zone face-off and Landmark knocked in a Teemu Laakso rebound off the back half wall past Toivonen at 13:32.

Then at 15:05 Aaron Johnson finished off a Milwaukee rush when he knocked in an Andreas Thuresson rebound at 15:05 for a 2-0 Admirals advantage at the first intermission.

After a scoreless second period Rockford got a goal back in the third on the power play. Kyle Beach smacked in a Ben Smith pass past Mark Dekanich at 5:05 reducing the IceHogs deficit to 2-1.

Rockford was outshot 24-22 in the contest and Toivonen made 22 saves to earn the win. Rockford went 1-5 on the power while the Admirals went 0-4.

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.

BLACKHAWKS ASSIGN BEN SMITH, RYAN POTULNY TO ROCKFORD

By: Adam Rogowin

11/02/2010 11:20 AM -
Rockford, Ill.- The Chicago Blackhawks have assigned winger Ben Smith and center Ryan Potulny to the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League.

Smith, 22, made his National Hockey League debut on Oct. 29 against Edmonton. The rookie winger was held scoreless in three games with the Blackhawks while registering four blocked shots, four hits and 4-of-5 faceoff wins.

The former 6th round pick (#169 overall) in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft has tallied four points (1g-3a) in eight games for the IceHogs in 2010-11, including the team’s only short-handed goal.

Smith skated four seasons at Boston College, capping his senior season off with a National Championship and a 5-0 win over Wisconsin in 2010. The Avon, Connecticut native was named the Most Outstanding Player in the Frozen Four Tournament after recording four points (3g-1a). Smith finished his college career with 122 points (57g-65a) in 165 games.

Potulny, 26, posted one shot, one hit and one takeaway in two tilts with the Blackhawks over the weekend in his first regular-season action with Chicago. He shares second on Rockford with four assists and fourth with six points (2g, 4a) in eight games with the IceHogs 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.

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. For tickets call (815) 968-5222 or visit metrocentre.com.

CONNELLY AND STANTON ON BUD LIGHT HOG TALK TONIGHT

By: Nate Haeni

11/01/2010 9:00 AM -
Rockford, Ill.- Join Mike Peck, the voice of the IceHogs, from 6-7 p.m. for Bud Light Hog Talk at Swilligan's Pub in downtown Rockford tonight.

Peck will recap last weekend’s games and look forward to the upcoming slate with IceHogs head coach Bill Peters. Peck will also talk hockey with defensemen Brian Connelly and Ryan Stanton.

The show can be heard live on 1330 AM WNTA, on-line through www.icehogs.com or on Comcast Cable Channel 57.

All fans that come out to Hog Talk will have an opportunity to sign-up to win some great prizes courtesy of the IceHogs.

Swilligan’s Pub is located at 200 North Church St. in downtown Rockford, just two blocks north of the Rockford MetroCentre.

For more information regarding Bud Light Hog Talk, visit www.icehogs.com.

ROCKFORD DROPS BOTH CONTESTS IN WEEK 4

By: Nate Haeni

11/01/2010 1:43 PM -
Week 4 Recap
The Rockford IceHogs didn’t pickup a win in Week 4, but they did gain a standings point. The Hogs forced a shootout against Texas on Wednesday but couldn’t come away with the victory as the Stars took the game in round nine of the shootout. The Hogs will be on the road in two of the three matchups in Week 5.

Week 4 Results
Wednesday, Oct. 27: Texas 4 vs. Rockford 3 SO
Saturday, Oct. 30: Rockford 2 at Chicago 3

Week 5 Schedule
Wednesday, Nov. 3 at Milwaukee, 7 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 6 vs. Manitoba, 7:05 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 7 at Peoria, 4:05 p.m.

Bacon Bits:
Brian Connelly has an assist in three-straight games dating back to Oct. 23, chipping in five helpers in that time span.

Connelly leads all Rockford skaters with nine points, second in the AHL for d-men.

All nine of Connelly’s points are assists, tied for most among AHL blueliners.

Rookie defenseman Nick Leddy potted his first career AHL goal on Saturday in Chicago and added an assist for his first professional multi-point game.

Rockford has outshot their opponent in three of their first nine games.

The IceHogs will play just four home games in November while playing eight games the road.

Rockford’s shootout loss to Texas on Wednesday dropped their all-time record to 0-5-1-1 against the Stars at the MetroCentre.

Since beginning the season 33.3 percent (8-12) on the penalty kill after their first three games, Rockford has stopped 89.7 percent (3-29) of their opponent’s power plays.

Kyle Hagel is tied for the AHL lead with five major penalties.

Three of Rockford’s last five games have gone to overtime.

Rockford’s 3.56 goals against average is tied for 27th in the AHL.

With the recalls of Ben Smith and Ryan Potulny last week, Rockford has had five players recalled to Chicago in 2010-11.

Chicago recalled a total of five different players from Rockford during the entire 2009-10 season.

Hot Hog Week 4:
Rookie defenseman Nick Leddy chipped in three points during Week 4 for the Rockford IceHogs. The 19-year-old d-man tallied an assist on Wednesday in Rockford’s 4-3 shootout loss to the Texas Stars before notching his first career AHL goal on Saturday against the Chicago Wolves. Leddy also marked an assist on Saturday giving him his first career multi-point game.

Upcoming Games:
Wednesday, Nov. 3 at Milwaukee Admirals: Puck drop is at 7 p.m. The IceHogs head North to Wisconsin to take on the Milwaukee Admirals for the first time in 2010-11. The game is the first of ten meetings between the two clubs in ‘10-11.

Saturday, Nov. 6 vs. Manitoba Moose: Game time is slated for 7:05 p.m. The first 2,500 fans into the building will receive an IceHogs baseball cap courtesy of Pepsi, WXRX and WIFR. The contest is the last bewteen the two teams at the MetroCentre.

Sunday, Nov. 7 vs. Peoria Rivermen: The game is set for 4:05 p.m. Rockford and Peoria face off for the second of ten meetings in 2010-11. The Hogs and Rivermen will meet up four times in November.

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 defensemen Ryan Stanton and Brian Connelly along with 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.