ICEHOGS RECALL HUTTON FROM TOLEDO, FOGAL RELEASED FROM PTO

By: Nate Haeni Rockford, Ill. – Chicago Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliations Mark Bernard announced Saturday that the Rockford IceHogs have recalled goaltender Carter Hutton from the Toledo Walleye (ECHL). Additionally, goaltender Brad Fogal was released from his professional try-out. Hutton has backstopped the Walleye in one game this season, stopping 17-of-22 chances. The 26 year-old appeared in 22 games for the Worcester Sharks (AHL) in 2010-11, posting an 11-7-2 record with a goals-against average of 3.01 and a save percentage of .902 with two shutouts.  The Thunder Bay, Ontario native also backed up with the San Jose Sharks for 13 games last season. Combined with a short stint with the Adirondack Phantoms (AHL) in 2009-10, the 6-1, 184-pound goaltender has compiled a 12-9-3 record at the pro level with a 2.96 GAA and a .912 SPCT. Fogal, 25, backed up Alec Richards in Peoria on Friday night and is in his first professional season with the Quad City Mallards (CHL). The Sharon, Ontario native recently completed a four-year college career with the Adrian Bulldogs (NCAA) and hasn't appeared in any games with the Mallards. Next Home Game: Sunday, Oct. 6 vs. Charlotte Checkers. The puck drops at 5:05 p.m. as the Checkers make their first ever visit to the BMO Harris Bank Center. The first 1,000 kids (14 and under) will receive an IceHogs puck. Bring your skates for the first “Skate with the Hogs” following the game.

PEORIA HAUNTS HOGS AT BMO HARRIS BANK CENTER

By: Amy Spivey

Photo by Greg Hamil Rockford 1-3-0-0 at home to start the season Rockford, Ill- After winning at home on opening night, the Rockford IceHogs have dropped three straight games at the BMO Harris Bank Center, losing 5-2 to the Peoria Rivermen on Saturday. Entering the second period tied at one, the Rivermen got the scoring started with a goal from Anthony Nigro just 2:03 into the frame. Alec Richards blocked a shot from Brennan Evans, but Nigro was waiting in front of the net and tapped in the rebound to give Peoria a 2-1 lead. Cade Fairchild added to Peoria’s lead with a power play goal at 13:29 of the middle frame to make it 3-1. Less than two minutes later, Adam Cracknell extended the lead to 4-1 as he beat Richards. Brett McLean started a near IceHogs comeback with under a minute to play in the second period. On a 4-on-3 man advantage, Brian Connelly fired a shot just wide of the net that redirected off of the back boards and right to McLean, who tapped the puck past Ben Bishop to make it a two-goal game. Despite the late second period rally, Rockford was not able to swing the momentum in their favor, and Brett Sterling sealed the game for Peoria with a goal just 1:16 into the final period. Ian Cole picked up his second assist of the night on the play. The IceHogs got on the scoreboard first but failed to take advantage of the early lead, potting a goal just 57 seconds into the first period. Brandon Segal took advantage of a rebound opportunity and put the puck past Bishop. Ryan Stanton and McLean tallied assists on the play. With the period winding down, Derek Nesbitt evened the score at the 16:06 mark. T.J. Hensick sent a pass from behind the IceHogs net and Nesbitt chipped it past Richards. Peoria finished one for seven on the power play, while Rockford did not convert on any of their six opportunities. Richards turned away 23 of the 28 shots he faced, while Carter Hutton replaced Richards and stopped all eight chances. Bishop finished the night with 37 saves. Next Home Game: Sunday, Nov. 6 vs. Charlotte Checkers: The puck drops at 5:05 p.m. After a seven-day layoff, the IceHogs return to the ice to take on the Checkers for the first time ever when they meet at the BMO Harris Bank Center. The game is the first of eight on the season between the two clubs. The first 1,000 kids 14-and-under will receive an IceHogs puck courtesy of Vienna Beef. Also, don’t forget your skates as Sunday is this season’s first Skate With the IceHogs following the game.

OFFENSE COMES ALIVE IN 6-4 WIN

By: Nate Haeni Peoria, Ill.- After scoring just three goals in three games, the Rockford IceHogs were hoping for an offensive breakout on Friday. They got it behind three first period goals to lead them to a 6-4 win over the Peoria Rivermen at Carver Arena. Peoria grabbed the first goal on Friday night off of a Rockford turnover. Kyle Hagel picked up an attempted Rockford clear out pass and found Tyler Shattock on the doorstep and the winger beat Alec Richards for his first goal of the season at 3:24. Just under two minutes later Rockford got even with Brian Connelly’s first goal of the year. In transition, winger Ben Smith found Connelly streaking to the net and the d-man fired home the equalizer at 5:20 of the opening frame. Then at 10:44 Ben Youds got into the scoring act, putting Rockford up 2-1. Jimmy Hayes led a transition rush for Rockford and found Youds on the weak side of Jake Allen, and the rookie dumped his first career pro goal into the Peoria net. Rockford later found themselves on a power play and used the advantage to increase their lead to 3-1.  Connelly fired a shot from the point that Allen blocked down, but Smith cleaned up the rebound for his second goal on the campaign at 14:59. In the second period the IceHogs continued their offensive outburst. Brett McLean picked up a Brandon Segal pass and snuck his first goal of the season under Allen 1:35 into the middle frame to increase the Rockford lead to 4-1. Peoria stopped the bleeding and gained some momentum with a Brett Sterling tally at 10:45 of the second. Derek Nesbitt found Sterling in transition and the winger poked home his sixth goal of the season under Richards to make it 4-2. The IceHogs lead was then reduced to 4-3 with Peoria on the power play. Derek Nesbitt picked up a T.J. Hensick centering feed and the former Hogs winger beat Richards one-on-one in front for his third tally of the season at 11:38. McLean would grant Rockford their two-goal lead back with a five-on-three power play strike. The center wrapped a puck around Allen at 16:23 for his second marker of the night. Peoria again reduced the Rockford lead to a goal in the third period. Jake Gannon picked up an attempted IceHogs clear out pass blasted a shot that Brett Sonne deflected in at 10:35. But on the very next shift Hayes would put the IceHogs back up by two. Hayes carried the puck into the Peoria zone and tallied his first career goal 10:48 of the third period to make it 6-4. The IceHogs outshot Peoria 39-35 in the game and Richards earned his fourth win of the season, blocking 31 Rivermen shots. Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 29 vs. Peoria Rivermen. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The game marks the third meeting between Rockford and Peoria this season. Saturday’s game is sponsored by Pepsi, and the first 2,500 fans through the doors will receive an IceHogs baseball cap. It is also an Illinois Lottery Cup game. The IceHogs won their first Illinois Lottery Cup matchup against the Rivermen on Oct. 9. For every goal that the Rockford IceHogs score in 2011-12, IceHogs head coach Ted Dent will make a donation to children’s cancer research. BMO Harris Bank will also make a donation for every goal to the “BMO Harris Bank Goals For Grades” initiative.

DANIS-PEPIN REASSIGNED TO TOLEDO

By: Amy Spivey Rockford, Ill- Chicago Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliations Mark Bernard announced Friday that the Chicago Blackhawks have reassigned defenseman Simon Danis-Pepin from the Rockford IceHogs to the Toledo Walleye (ECHL). Bernard also announced that goalie Brad Fogal has been signed to a PTO. In three games for the Walleye this season, Danis-Pepin has recorded seven penalty minutes. The Montreal, Quebec native appeared in 33 contests for the Walleye last season, registering three goals and nine assists. Danis-Pepin skated in 23 contests with the IceHogs in 2010-11, recording a goal and three assists. The 23-year-old made his professional and AHL debut with Rockford on Oct. 4, 2009 in a loss at Peoria and notched his first professional goal in a win over Chicago on Oct. 16, 2009. The 6-foot-7 defenseman played his college career at the University of Maine, playing in 133 games and notching 36 points (6g-30a). The Blackhawks selected Danis-Pepin in Round 2 (No. 61 overall) of the 2006 NHL Entry Draft. Fogal, 25, is in his first professional season with the Quad City Mallards (CHL). The Sharon, Ontario native recently completed a four-year college career with the Adrian Bulldogs (NCAA) and hasn't appeared in any games with the Mallards. Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 29 vs. Peoria Rivermen. Game time is 7:05 p.m. This will be the third meeting between Rockford and Peoria this season. Saturday’s game is sponsored by Pepsi, and the first 2,500 fans through the doors will receive an IceHogs baseball cap. It is also an Illinois Lottery Cup game. The IceHogs won their first Illinois Lottery Cup matchup against the Rivermen on Oct. 9.

SEGAL NAMED ICEHOGS TEAM CAPTAIN

By: Amy Spivey

Photo by Jim Orlando Will be fifth Captain in the AHL era Rockford, Ill.- Rockford IceHogs Head Coach Ted Dent announced Thursday that forward Brandon Segal has been named the team captain for the 2011-12 season. Segal becomes the fifth captain for the IceHogs in the AHL era, joining Jim Fahey (2007-08), Tim Brent (2008-09), Jake Dowell (2009-10) and Garnet Exelby (2010-11). Defensemen Brian Connelly and Brian Fahey along with forward Brett McLean will serve as alternate captains. Segal, 28, is in his ninth professional season and has four points (4g) through the first seven games of the 2011-12 campaign, including two game-winning goals. He spent part of the 2010-11 season with the Dallas Stars, tallying 10 points (5g-5a) in 46 games. The 6-2 forward is the only player to have skated for the IceHogs in both the UHL and AHL eras. Segal appeared in ten games for Rockford in 2004-05, tallying nine points (5g-4a). Overall, the Richmond, British Columbia native has played in 564 career games, including 92 NHL contests and 462 AHL tilts. Segal has appeared in AHL games with the Milwaukee Admirals, Portland Pirates, Norfolk Admirals, Manchester Monarchs and Texas Stars. Connelly, 24, will be a permanent alternate captain for Rockford this season. The 2011-12 campaign is his fourth with Rockford and he currently leads the team with six points (6a) through the first seven games. Fahey, 30, is in his ninth professional season and will wear the “A” during home games. He made his NHL debut with the Washington Capitals in 2010-11, scoring one point (1a) in seven games. The defenseman won a Calder Cup with the Chicago Wolves in 2008. McLean, 33, will don the “A” during road games in 2011-12, his 13th professional season. The forward made his NHL debut with the Chicago Blackhawks on Dec. 10, 2002 and played in the Swiss-A League for the past two seasons. McLean had four points (4a) in the first four games of the 2011-12 campaign. Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 29 vs. Peoria Rivermen. Game time is 7:05 p.m. This will be the third meeting between Rockford and Peoria this season. Saturday’s game is sponsored by Pepsi, and the first 2,500 fans through the doors will receive an IceHogs baseball cap. It is also an Illinois Lottery Cup game. The IceHogs won their first Illinois Lottery Cup matchup against the Rivermen on Oct. 9.

FREE HATS, TRICK-OR-TREATING AND COSTUME CONTEST ON SATURDAY

By: Mike Peck

Costume contest for adults and kids as well Saturday Rockford, Ill.- This Saturday is Hat Night as the Rockford IceHogs take on the Peoria Rivermen at the BMO Harris Bank Center at 7:05 p.m. Hat Night is presented by Pepsi and the first 2,500 fans to the game will receive an IceHogs baseball hat. Saturday’s game also marks the IceHogs annual trick-or-treating event with the team on the ice following the game courtesy of Nestle. Kids 14 and under can trick-or-treat with the team on the ice following Rockford’s game against Peoria. All fans are encouraged to come in costume on Saturday. The IceHogs will host a costume contest during the game with prizes for the top three adults and kids. Prizes will include Blackhawks tickets, IceHogs tickets and gift certificates to Oink Outfitters. The game is also another Illinois Lottery Cup Game against the Rivermen and is the back-end of a home-and-home set with their rivals from central Illinois. For tickets to the game, call (815) 968-5222, on-line at icehogs.com or in person at the BMO Harris Bank Center Box Office in downtown Rockford.

BLACKHAWKS ALUMNI TEAM ANNOUNCED FOR UPCOMING GAME IN ROCKFORD

By: Mike Peck

IceHogs alumni to take on Blackhawks alumni on Nov. 12 at the BMO Harris Bank Center Rockford, Ill.- The Chicago Blackhawks Alumni Association announced today the roster for the upcoming IceHogs Alumni Game on Saturday, Nov. 12 at the BMO Harris Bank Center. A team of Rockford IceHogs Alumni will take on the Chicago Blackhawks Alumni at 3:30 p.m. before the IceHogs and Peoria Rivermen faceoff at 7:05 p.m. The following is a list of Blackhawks Alumni Association members who will participate in the game: Jose Charbanneau Tom Dillon Reg Kerr C.J. Koroll Cliff Koroll Dave Mackey Bill Mullins Grant Mulvey Kyle Mulvey Mark Kurzawski Troy Murray Brian Noonan Alex Pirus Steve Poapst Mike Rigali Phil Russell Reid Simpson The event is the first ever IceHogs alumni game and Rockford’s team will feature Scott Burfoot, Ben Christopherson, Steve Cygan, Dan Davies, Oak Hewer, Kenzie Homer, Brad Olsen, Jason Ralph, J.F. Rivard, Joe Statkus, Erik Wendell and Clint Wensley. For tickets to the game, call (815) 968-5222, on-line through icehogs.com or in person at the BMO Harris Box Office. Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 29 vs. Peoria Rivermen. Game time is 7:05 p.m. This will be the third meeting between Rockford and Peoria this season. Saturday’s game is sponsored by Pepsi, and the first 2,500 fans through the doors will receive an IceHogs baseball cap. It is also an Illinois Lottery Cup game. The IceHogs won their first Illinois Lottery Cup matchup against the Rivermen on Oct. 9.

ROCKFORD DROPS A THIRD STRAIGHT CONTEST

By: Amy Spivey

Photo by Greg Hamil Three third period goals buries the IceHogs Rockford, Ill.- Entering Tuesday night’s matchup, the Texas Stars had the number one power play in the American Hockey League and the Rockford IceHogs experienced that first-hand in a 6-2 loss in front of a sellout crowd at the BMO Harris Bank Center. After giving up a late second period goal, Rockford found life when Ben Smith tipped in a Kyle Beach shot past Tyler Beskorowany to make it a 3-2 game at 11:47 in the final frame. But Texas showed their prowess on the power play, and it was too much for the IceHogs to overcome. The Stars scored three unanswered goals in the final frame, two of which came on the man advantage. Matt Fraser tapped in his second goal of the night, on the power play, to put the Stars back up to a two goal lead at 4-2 at 14:52. Philip Larsen and Raymond Sawada picked up the helpers. Then at 16:04, Luke Gazdic raced into the IceHogs zone and flipped the puck over Alec Richards to push the lead to 5-2. Larsen converted with another power play tally at 18:36 in the third period to finish the Hogs off, 6-2. In five total opportunities, the Stars converted on three man advantages while the IceHogs finished the contest one-for-three. Texas got on the scoreboard early with a goal from Ryan Garbutt at 5:43 of the first period. Tomas Vincour and Mathieu Tousignant tallied assists on the marker. After only converting on one of their last 17 power play chances over the last three contests, Rockford scored immediately on their first man advantage of the night to make it a 1-1 game. Just four seconds into the power play, Brandon Pirri won a face-off and pushed the puck back to Shawn Lalonde and he blasted a shot from the blue line past Beskorowany at 17:55 of the first period. But the Stars answered back less than a minute later to make it a one-goal game. Tousignant picked up his second point of the night as he slid the puck past Richards at the 18:26 mark. Vincour and Garbutt were credited with assists on the play, each earning their second points on the night. Ryan Stanton was sent to the box for a slashing penalty, and Travis Morin fed a pass to Fraser, who beat Richards with just 38 seconds left in the middle frame to give the Stars a 3-1 lead. Richards made 29 saves in the loss, while Beskorowany turned away 33 Rockford shots to pick up his first win on the campaign. Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 29 vs. Peoria Rivermen. Game time is 7:05 p.m. This will be the third meeting between Rockford and Peoria this season. Saturday’s game is sponsored by Pepsi, and the first 2,500 fans through the doors will receive an IceHogs baseball cap. It is also an Illinois Lottery Cup game. The IceHogs won their first Illinois Lottery Cup matchup against the Rivermen on Oct. 9. For every goal that the Rockford IceHogs score in 2011-12, IceHogs head coach Ted Dent will make a donation to children’s cancer research. BMO Harris Bank will also make a donation for every goal to the “BMO Harris Bank Goals For Grades” initiative.

ICEHOGS RECALL DANIS-PEPIN

By: Kate Munson

Defenseman returns from Toledo Rockford, Ill.- Chicago Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliations Mark Bernard announced Monday that the Rockford IceHogs have recalled defenseman Simon Danis-Pepin from the Toledo Walleye (ECHL). In three games for the Walleye this season, Danis-Pepin has recorded seven PIMs. The Montreal, Quebec native appeared in 33 contests for the Walleye last season, registering three goals and nine assists. Danis-Pepin is entering his third season with the IceHogs after appearing in 23 contests and recording a goal and three assists with the IceHogs in 2010-11. The 23-year-old made his professional and AHL debut with Rockford on Oct. 4, 2009 in a loss at Peoria and notched his first professional goal in a win over Chicago on Oct. 16, 2009. The 6-foot-8 defenseman played his college career at the University of Maine. While there, Danis-Pepin appeared in 133 games and notched 36 points (6g-30a). The Blackhawks selected Danis-Pepin in Round 2 (No. 61 overall) of the 2006 NHL Entry Draft.  Next Home Game:  Tuesday, Oct. 25 vs. Texas Stars. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs host the Texas Stars for WIFR Sell Out Night. Fans can receive free admission to the contest by printing the voucher from WIFR.com and bringing it to the BMO Harris Bank Center Box Office or redeeming it online.

BUD LIGHT HOG TALK RETURNS TO GRANITE CITY TONIGHT

Rockford, Ill.-  Bud Light Hog Talk returns to Granite City Food and Brewery in Rockford tonight. The show runs from 6-7 p.m. and Granite City is located at 7140 Harrison Ave. next to CherryVale Mall. Guests on tonight’s show include IceHogs assistant coach Ben Simon along with Hogs forward Jeremy Morin and defenseman Shawn Lalonde. Mike Peck will host the show and he’ll recap last week’s action, preview the week ahead and chat some non-things hockey with his guests. If you can’t make it to tonight’s show, tune into 1330 AM WNTA or listen on the Web through wnta.com or on Comcast Cable Channel-57. Fans can take advantage of food and Bud Light specials at Granite City and can register to win some great prizes courtesy of the IceHogs, including tickets to upcoming IceHogs games. For a complete list of Bud Light Hog Talk dates at Granite City Food and Brewery, visit icehogs.com.

ICEHOGS WINLESS IN WEEK 3

By: Kate Munson

Photo by Greg Hamil Week 3 Recap:  The Rockford IceHogs met the Chicago Wolves for the first time this season, falling to their I-90 rivals in both weekend contests. Goalie Alexander Salak made his IceHogs debut in Chicago on Friday, turning away 28 shots in the loss. Rockford didn’t fare much better in Saturday’s Illinois Lottery Cup tilt at the BMO Harris Bank Center, falling to the Wolves 4-1. Week 3 Results                        Friday, Oct. 21: Rockford 0 at Chicago 2            Saturday, Oct. 22: Chicago 4 vs. Rockford 1                          Week 4 Schedule Tuesday, Oct. 25 vs. Texas, 7:05 p.m. Friday, Oct. 28 at Peoria, 7:00 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29 vs. Peoria, 7:05 p.m.  Bacon Bits Three games after setting a franchise low with 13 shots on goal, Rockford matched a team AHL-record with 48 shots on Saturday against the Chicago Wolves In two games against the Wolves, Rockford peppered the goalie combination of Eddie Lack and Matt Climie with 83 shots on goal and scored just one goal Rockford is 3-0-0-0 when they are outshot in a game and 0-2-0-0 when outshooting their opponent Through six games in 2011-12 Rockford (3) and their opponents (2) have combined for just five second period goals Brett McLean had his four-game assist streak end on Friday in Chicago Defenseman Brian Connelly is tied for first among AHL defensemen with six assists and is second overall in scoring among blueliners With his assist on Sunday, Connelly moved into fifth on Rockford’s all-time assist list with 80 career helpers Connelly ranks second among defensemen on the all-time IceHogs assist list behind only Jeff DaCosta Rockford snapped a power-play drought of 0-17 on Saturday with Philippe Paradis’ third period power play goal Alexander Salak, Ben Smith and Philippe Paradis all made their 2011-12 debuts on Friday in Chicago against the Wolves Rockford will play their first three-game week in Week 4 Seven of Rockford’s next 10 games will be played within the Midwest Division Hot Hog: Week 3: Philippe Paradis Left Wing After missing the first two weeks due to injury, rookie winger Philippe Paradis notched a goal in his second game of the young season in Week 3. Paradis scored Rockford’s lone goal on the weekend and the tally was the second of his career after potting a goal at the end of last season in a brief stint with the IceHogs. Upcoming Games: Tuesday, Oct. 25 vs Texas Stars: The puck gets on the ice at 7:05 p.m as Rockford takes on Texas at the BMO Harris Bank Center. Tuesday’s contest is the fourth annual WIFR Sell Out night with the station offering free tickets, redeemable by printing the voucher found on WIFR.com. Friday, Oct. 28 at Peoria Rivermen: Game time is 7p.m. Rockford returns to Peoria to take on the Rivermen in an Illinois Lottery Cup showdown. The IceHogs defeated the Rivermen 5-3 in Peoria on Oct. 9 when the two teams met for the first time this season. The game is the front end of a home-and-home series with the Rivermen. Saturday, Oct. 29 vs Peoria Rivermen: The game is slated for 7:05 p.m. Rockford returns to the BMO Harris Bank Center for the second half of a home-and-home weekend series with the Peoria Rivermen. The first 2,500 fans in the doors for the Illinois Lottery Cup tilt will receive an IceHogs baseball hat sponsored by Pepsi. 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 BMO Harris Bank Center this season. All Saturday home games 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 2011-12 season. Tickets can also be purchased in person at the BMO Harris Bank Center Box Office in downtown Rockford or on the Web at www.theBMOHarrisBankCenter.com.  Tickets start at just $7.

Illinois Lottery Cup Series Standings Teams       Record    Points Chicago     1-0-0-0          2 Peoria        0-1-0-0          0 Rockford    1-1-0-0          2 Rockford vs. Peoria       1-0-0-0 Rockford vs. Chicago    0-1-0-0 Rockford Next Illinois Lottery Cup Game: Oct. 28 at Peoria

POWER PLAY PLAGUES ICEHOGS IN LOSS TO WOLVES

By: Nate Haeni

Photo by Greg Hamil IceHogs are just one for sixteen in the last three games on power play Rockford, Ill.- In eight power play opportunities on Saturday, the Rockford IceHogs were only able to capitalize on the final man advantage of the night, falling to the Chicago Wolves 4-1 at the BMO Harris Bank Center. The lack of production on the power play is nothing new for the IceHogs this season. Dating back to the Oct. 16 tilt against Abbotsford, Rockford has converted just once in sixteen chances. Philippe Paradis finally broke through for the IceHogs at 11:20 of the third period, sliding in front of goaltender Matt Climie and slapped the puck in. It was the only goal that Rockford scored against the Wolves in two straight games. Chicago jumped out to an early 1-0 lead at 5:50 of the first period. With a lot of traffic in front of the IceHogs net, Yann Sauve fired a shot on goal that trickled by an unaware Alexander Salak. Victor Oreskovich and Jordan Schroeder were credited with the assists on the play. The Wolves added to their lead in the middle frame when Bill Sweatt slipped in his first goal of the season. Mike Duco wristed the puck at Salak and Sweatt was on the doorstep to tip it in and make it 2-0 at 6:16. Dustin Friesen gave Chicago a 3-0 lead at the 7:33 mark of the third period with a slapshot from the blue line that went past Salak. Then, with just over two minutes remaining, Rockford put six attackers on the ice, but Duco tapped in an empty net goal to seal the game for the Wolves. Despite only netting one goal, Rockford had 48 shots on goal, which ties their AHL record. The Hogs had 48 shots on goal in a 3-2 loss at Milwaukee back on March 11, 2009. Climie earned his first win of the season, stopping 47 of the 48 IceHogs attempts. Salak was handed the loss, turning away 13 of 16 chances. The IceHogs held Chicago off the board on all four of their power play opportunities. Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 22 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs welcome the Chicago Wolves to the BMO Harris Bank Center for the second of 12 meetings. Fans can purchase a special family four pack for $49 that includes four tickets, four Culver’s concrete mixers and four tickets to the Discovery Center’s “Peanuts….Naturally” exhibit. The four pack can be purchased at the BMO Harris Bank Box Office, Discovery Center or at any Rockford area Culver’s locations. For every goal that the Rockford IceHogs score in 2011-12, IceHogs head coach Ted Dent will make a donation to children’s cancer research. BMO Harris Bank will also make a donation for every goal to the “BMO Harris Bank Goals For Grades” initiative.

LACK OF OFFENSE DOOMS ROCKFORD

By: Mike Peck

Photo by Ross Dettman Eddie Lack out duels Alexander Salak Rosemont, Ill.- A game after registering a franchise-record low 13-shots on goal in a win, the Rockford IceHogs upped the total to a season-high 35 shots on Friday night, but came away with nothing. Chicago Wolves goalie Eddie Lack turned aside all 35 Rockford shots and outdid IceHogs goalie Alexander Salak in the Wolves 2-0 victory at the Allstate Arena. Salak made his IceHogs debut on Friday and was sharp, making 28 saves, but two power-play goals were too much for Rockford to overcome. Rockford had three power-play chances in the first period Friday, but it was the Wolves who capitalized on their lone advantage of the frame. Just seven-seconds into their power play, Darren Haydar buried a Kevin Doell feed behind Salak at 13:43. Friday’s game was Salak’s first game action in nearly a month, which was in the preseason in Chicago with Blackhawks. The Wolves caught the puck stopper up to speed quickly in the second period, peppering him with 18 shots, but Salak was up to the task and turned them all the away. In the third period, Chicago tacked on a second marker with another power-play goal. Kevin Connauton picked up a Haydar pass at 1:47 and beat Salak in traffic for his first goal of the season. Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 22 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs welcome the Chicago Wolves to the BMO Harris Bank Center for the second of 12 meetings. Fans can purchase a special family four pack for $49 that includes four tickets, four Culver’s concrete mixers and four tickets to the Discovery Center’s “Peanuts….Naturally” exhibit. The four pack can be purchased at the BMO Harris Bank Box Office, Discovery Center or at any Rockford area Culver’s locations.

ICEHOGS REASSIGN ROB FLICK TO TOLEDO

By: Nate Haeni

Photo by Jim Orlando Rockford, Ill.-  The Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League announced on Wednesday that center Rob Flick has been reassigned from Rockford to the Toledo Walleye of the ECHL. In his first professional season, Flick has been held scoreless in one game for the IceHogs. Flick posted 57 points (27g-30a) in 2010-11 for the Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors of the OHL. He also helped the Majors reach the Memorial Cup Finals with his 16 post-season points (8g-8a). In 181 career OHL games, the London, Ontario native registered 99 points (46g-53a) and 393 penalty minutes. He spent all three seasons with Mississauga. The 20 year-old was selected by the Chicago Blackhawks in the fourth round (#120 overall) of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 22 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs welcome the Chicago Wolves to the BMO Harris Bank Center for the second of 12 meetings. Fans can purchase a special family four pack for $49 that includes four tickets, four Culvers concrete mixers and four tickets to the Discovery Center’s “Peanuts….Naturally” exhibit. The four pack can be purchased at the BMO Harris Bank Box Office, Discovery Center or at any Rockford area Culver’s locations.

ICEHOGS FANS CAN TAKE OFF WITH FLYRFD.COM BENCH BOX

By: Nate Haeni

Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs, in conjunction with the Chicago-Rockford International Airport, announced a new promotion on Wednesday, giving fans the opportunity to win two seats on the glass, between the player benches, in the new FLYRFD.COM Bench Box for each home game. The FLYRFD.COM Bench Box, which will be given away for each IceHogs home game, contains two first-class airline seats for fans to enjoy the game up close. Each winner will also receive access to the IceHogs Club Lounge (including a complimentary dinner), two tickets to Airfest 2012 and be entered to win two round trip airline tickets given away each month. Fans can enter to win the seats at the U.S. Cellular fan zone, located on the main concourse of the BMO Harris Bank Center, during every IceHogs game. A winner will be drawn each game for the bench box seats to be redeemed at the following IceHogs home game. All participants must be 18 years-old or older to enter. Every entry prior to the IceHogs game on Jan. 28 will also be entered to win a grand prize getaway to Denver, Colorado. One grand prize winner will receive a trip for two to Denver, including round trip transportation from the Chicago-Rockford International Airport, to see the Chicago Blackhawks take on the Colorado Avalanche in Denver on Feb. 6. All entries are eligible to win additional prizes, including Allegiant airline vouchers, Blackhawks tickets, an IceHogs suite night, and more. Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 22 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs welcome the Chicago Wolves to the BMO Harris Bank Center for the second of 12 meetings. Fans can purchase a special family four pack for $49 that includes four tickets, four Culvers concrete mixers and four tickets to the Discovery Center’s “Peanuts….Naturally” exhibit. The four pack can be purchased at the BMO Harris Bank Box Office, Discovery Center or at any Rockford area Culver’s locations.

WIFR SELL OUT NIGHT COMING OCT. 25

By: Kate Munson

Free tickets available for showdown with Stars Rockford, Ill.- For the fourth straight season, WIFR-TV channel 23 is sponsoring the WIFR Sell Out Night. The station has purchased all the remaining seats for the Rockford IceHogs home game against the Texas Stars on Tuesday, Oct. 25 at 7:05 p.m. and is offering them for free through their website, WIFR.com. To obtain the free voucher, fans can visit WIFR.com and click on the “Free Tickets” image on the top right of the home page. Print out the voucher and bring it to the BMO Harris Bank Center Box Office to get up to four tickets for the Oct. 25 contest at the BMO Harris Bank Center. For better seats, the voucher can be redeemed online by clicking “reserve online” on the promotion page and following the instructions. A $3 service charge will be added to online orders. The offer is available while tickets last, and the voucher cannot be redeemed for any other IceHogs game or BMO Harris Bank Center event. For box office hours, call (815) 968-5222. Last season’s event was sold out days before the game, and 6,116 fans attended the Dec. 30 contest against Houston. Tickets are expected to go quickly again this year, so print the voucher and redeem it soon.

ICEHOGS REASSIGN HUTTON TO TOLEDO

By: Kate Munson

Rockford, Ill. - The American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs have reassigned goalie Carter Hutton to the Toledo Walleye (ECHL). Hutton backed up IceHogs goalie Alec Richards in both contests in Abbotsford over the weekend. Hutton, 26, appeared in 22 games for the Worcester Sharks (AHL) in 2010-11, posting an 11-7-2 record with a goals-against average of 3.01 and a save percentage of .902 with two shutouts.  The Thunder Bay, Ontario native also backed up in San Jose with the Sharks for 13 games last season. Combined with a short stint with the Adirondack Phantoms (AHL) in 2009-10, the 6-1, 184-pound goaltender has compiled a 12-9-3 record at the pro level with a 2.96 GAA and a .912 SPCT. Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 22 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs welcome the Chicago Wolves to the BMO Harris Bank Center for the second of 12 meetings. Fans can purchase a special family four pack for $49 that includes four tickets, four Culvers concrete mixers and four tickets to the Discovery Center’s “Peanuts….Naturally” exhibit. The four pack can be purchased at the BMO Harris Bank Box Office, Discovery Center or at any Rockford area Culver’s locations.

NO BUD LIGHT HOG TALK TONIGHT

Rockford, Ill.- There will be no Bud Light Hog Talk tonight at Granite City Food and Brewery in Rockford as the team is traveling back from Abbotsford. The next show will be on Monday, Oct. 24. The show runs most Mondays from 6-7 p.m. and Granite City is located at 7140 Harrison Ave. next to the CherryVale Mall. Mike Peck will host the show and he’ll recap last week’s action, preview the week ahead and chat some non-things hockey with his guests. If you can’t make it to Hog Talk at Granite City, tune into 1330 AM WNTA or listen on the Web through wnta.com or on Comcast Cable Channel-57. Fans can take advantage of food and Bud Light specials at Granite City and can register to win some great prizes courtesy of the IceHogs, including tickets to upcoming IceHogs games. For a complete list of Bud Light Hog Talk dates at Granite City Food and Brewery, visit icehogs.com.

FAMILIAR FACE RETURNS TO ROCKFORD

By: Kate Munson

Blackhawks assign Ben Smith Rockford, Ill.- The Chicago Blackhawks have assigned forward Ben Smith to the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs. Smith is no stranger to Rockford, skating in 63 games for the IceHogs during the 2010-11 season. The right winger ranked second on Rockford with 19 goals and totaled 31 points (19g-12a) during his first professional season. For his efforts, Smith was named the IceHogs Rookie of the Year. A native of Avon, Connecticut, Smith made his National Hockey League debut with Chicago last season, collecting one goal in six regular-season contests before notching three goals in seven Stanley Cup Playoff tilts. Smith, 23, has not appeared in any games with the Blackhawks this season. Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 22 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs welcome the Chicago Wolves to the BMO Harris Bank Center for the second of 12 meetings. Fans can purchase a special family four pack for $49 that includes four tickets, four Culvers concrete mixers and four tickets to the Discovery Center’s “Peanuts….Naturally” exhibit. The four pack can be purchased at the BMO Harris Bank Box Office, Discovery Center or at any Rockford area Culver’s locations.

ROCKFORD SPLITS WEEKEND IN WEEK 2

By: Kate Munson

Week 2 Recap: The Rockford IceHogs made their annual trek to Abbotsford, British Columbia to take on the Heat in Week 2. After surrendering a two goal lead on Friday, Rockford regrouped for a victory on Sunday, moving to 3-1-0-0 on the season. The IceHogs return to Illinois in Week 3 to face the Chicago Wolves. On Friday, Rockford faces the divisional rival Wolves in Chicago for the first of 12 meetings. Saturday’s contest features the Wolves in Rockford for an Illinois Lottery Cup Series tilt. Week 2 Results                        Friday, Oct. 14: Rockford 3 at Abbotsford 4                              Sunday, Oct. 16: Rockford 3 at Abbotsford 2                            Week 3 Schedule Friday, Oct. 21 at Chicago, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22 vs. Chicago, 7:05 p.m. Bacon Bits Rockford recorded a franchise record low with 13-shots on goal in their 3-2 win at Abbotsford on Sunday Just six different players recorded a shot on goal in the win The previous franchise low was 16, set in the UHL era, while the AHL low mark was 17, set twice (4/6/10 at Houston, 3-1 win and 11/2/07 vs. San Antonio, 2-3 SOL) The IceHogs have yet to outshoot an opponent this season and are 3-0-0-0 when they are outshot Alec Richards became the first IceHogs goalie in franchise history to face penalty shots in back-to-back games when Abbotsford was awarded penalty shots on both Friday and Sunday Richards’ last penalty shot came against Alexander Giroux on Dec. 11, 2010. Including this weekend’s two penalty attempts, Richards is perfect on three career opportunities The two penalty shots were just the ninth and tenth penalty shots that the IceHogs have faced in 13 seasons After allowing the first two penalty shots to go in, IceHogs’ goalies have stopped eight straight penalty shot attempts Center Brett McLean has recorded an assist in all four of Rockford’s contests this season Jeremy Morin notched goals in each of his first two games since suffering a concussion on Jan. 15 Nine different skaters tallied points in the IceHogs 3-2 win at Abbotsford on Sunday Brandon Segal notched his second game-winning goal of the season on Sunday Rockford has led all four games this season after two periods by one goal and the opponent has tied the game all four times Ben Youds chipped in his first pro point on Sunday with an assist Brian Connelly extended his point streak to three games (5a), posting an assist Friday night and another Sunday. His longest professional career point streak is five games, recorded Nov. 14, 2009 to Nov. 28, 2009. Hot Hog: Week 2: Jeremy Morin Left Wing In his first games returning to the ice after suffering a concussion on Jan. 15, forward Jeremy Morin notched goals in back-to-back games for the IceHogs in Week 2. On just his second shift of the game on Friday, Morin picked up a Chris DiDomenico pass and slipped the puck to the back of the net to give the IceHogs an early advantage. Two days later, Morin opened up the game with his second goal of the season in the IceHogs 3-2 win over Abbotsford on Sunday. Upcoming Games: Friday, Oct. 21 at Chicago Wolves: The puck gets on the ice at 7:30 p.m. Rockford faces Chicago for the first of 12 meetings between the divisional rivals during the 2011-12 regular season. Saturday, Oct. 22 vs Chicago Wolves: Game time is 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs return to the BMO Harris Bank Center for an Illinois Lottery Cup Series tilt with the Wolves.  Fans can purchase a special family four pack for $49 that includes four tickets, four Culvers concrete mixers and four tickets to the Discovery Center’s “Peanuts….Naturally” exhibit. The four pack can be purchased at the BMO Harris Bank Box Office, Discovery Center or at any Rockford area Culver’s locations. Larger groups can call (815) 847-6399, and each fan will receive a water bottle and hat (groups of 15 or more).

Illinois Lottery Cup Series Standings Teams       Record    Points Chicago     0-0-0-0     0 Peoria        0-1-0-0     0 Rockford   1-0-0-0      2 Rockford vs. Peoria       1-0-0-0 Rockford vs. Chicago    0-0-0-0 Rockford Next Illinois Lottery Cup Game: Oct. 22 vs. Chicago

SEGAL’S LATE STRIKE SENDS ROCKFORD OVER ABBOTSFORD

By: Mike Peck

Photo courtesy of Amy Williams Photography Richards turns away 31 shots in the IceHogs win Abbotsford, B.C.-Leads haven’t been a problem in the early 2011-12 season for the Rockford IceHogs. Holding them in the third period has been a challenge though. Rockford used another late third period tally from Brandon Segal to slip by the Abbotsford Heat 3-2 on Sunday at the Abbotsford Entertainment and Sports Centre. For the fourth straight game Rockford carried a one-goal lead into the third period and for the fourth straight contest the opponent tied the game. Ben Walter, who was denied on a penalty shot attempt moments earlier, picked the top corner over Alec Richards at 3:27 of the third to tie the game at 2-2. But Segal, from nearby Delta, B.C., would garner his second game-winning goal of the season, both coming late in the third period. Brian Connelly lofted a puck from the Rockford zone into the Heat side of the ice, which was played by Brett McLean to Segal and the winger beat Leland Irving over the glove at 15:48 for the deciding goal. Jeremy Morin found the back of the net for the second straight game and Sunday he gave Rockford a 1-0 lead. Chris DiDomenio found Morin inside the right face-off circle and the second-year forward sniped his second goal of the season over Irving at 12:34. In almost the exact spot that Morin found his scoring touch, Brandon Pirri would extend the Rockford lead to 2-0. Pirri picked up a Jimmy Hayes pass from the right corner and tucked his second goal of the year under the cross bar at 19:19 of the first period. Abbotsford reduced the lead to 2-1 with a second period power-play goal. Brendan Mikkelson fired a slap shot from the left point which beat Richards in traffic at 4:18 for his first marker of the season. Rockford was outshot 33-13 for the game and held to 0-5 on the power play. Richards, who stopped a penalty shot for a second straight game, was solid in net once again making 31 saves to warn his third win. Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 22 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m.The IceHogs welcome the Chicago Wolves to the BMO Harris Bank Center for the first of 12 meetings. Fans can purchase a special family four pack for $49 that includes four tickets, four Culvers concrete mixers and four tickets to the Discovery Center’s “Peanuts….Naturally” exhibit. The four pack can be purchased at the BMO Harris Bank Box Office, Discovery Center or at any Rockford area Culver’s locations.

HOGS LOOK TO RETURN STATESIDE WITH A WIN

By: Mike Peck

Photo courtesy of Amy Williams Photography IceHogs and Heat wrap up weekend set in Abbotsford Abbotsford, B.C.-Win a day to make adjustments after their first loss of the 2011-12 season, the Rockford IceHogs return to the ice this afternoon and look to gain a split in a two-game weekend set in Abbotsford against the Heat at the Abbotsford Entertainment and Sports Centre. Game time today is 3 p.m. and the game can be heard, beginning at 2:35 p.m. with the U.S. Cellular Pregame Show, on 1330 AM WNTA, 1380 AM WNTA, on-line at wnta.com or on Comcast Cable Channel-57. The game can be viewed on the Web through ahllive.com. Rockford has led all three games so far this season after two periods, but couldn’t hold the lead on Friday in Abbotsford. The IceHogs surrendered three unanswered tallies en route to a 4-3 loss in the Heat’s home opener. Offense hasn’t been an issue for Rockford during the early season as the team has 11 goals in three games, a 3.67 goals per game average, up from a 2.70 goals per contest average from a season ago. The IceHogs put up three first period goals on five shots on Leland Irving Friday after the Abbotsford backstop allowed just one goal in 42 shots faced over two games during Week 1. Leland, however, settled in and was able to keep Rockford off of the board over the final two frames on 24 shots. After today’s matinee in British Columbia, Rockford and Abbotsford will square off twice more this season, both coming at the BMO Harris Bank Center in Rockford.

THIRD PERIOD LEAD DOESN'T HOLD UP FOR ROCKFORD

By: Mike Peck

Photo by Greg Hamil Hogs drop 4-3 contest in Abbotsford Abbotsford, B.C.- For a third straight game, the Rockford IceHogs carried a one-goal lead into the third period. The IceHogs, however, couldn’t preserve the lead on Friday and dropped a 4-3 decision to the Abbotsford Heat at the Abbotsford Entertainment and Sports Centre. Rockford had two, two-goal leads on Friday and notched all three of their tallies in the first period. In his first game back since suffering a concussion on Jan. 15, Jeremy Morin found the score sheet and put Rockford on top early into period one. Morin picked up a Chris DiDomenico pass and worked himself out of pressure in the Heat zone and the winger slid his first goal of the season through the legs of Leland Irving at 5:09 of the opening frame. For the third straight game Rockford winger Kyle Beach lit the lamp. The second year winger blew his third goal of the campaign past Irving in traffic at 18:52 off of a feed from Brandon Pirri. The Heat reduced Rockford’s lead back down to a goal at 12:12 of the opening stanza. Ben Walter picked up a centering pass from Greg Nemisz from behind the Rockford goal and beat Alec Richards five-hole for his first tally of the year. Rockford’s two-goal lead was restored with a Pirri power-play marker. From on top of the right circle, Pirri blasted his first goal of the year past Irving 19:21, set up by Brian Connelly. The two-goal lead was short lived as Abbotsford retaliated on the bump up shift. Paul Byron earned his second goal of the season when he snuck a shot under Richards at 19:38. After five combined goals in the opening period, the second frame went scoreless, but not without opportunity. Abbotsford’s Lance Bouma was awarded a penalty shot after Ryan Stanton slashed him on a breakaway, but Richards denied Bouma’s attempt at 11:21 to keep the IceHogs on top heading into the second intermission. The one-goal advantage wouldn’t last long into period three for Rockford as Abbotsford struck twice early in the final frame to take a 4-3 lead. John Rheault got the equalizer with a breakaway marker 1:01 into the period. Then just 44-seconds later Nemisz would finish off a transition rush when Dustin Sylvester found him on the doorstep for his second goal of the season and the Heat’s first lead of the game. Both teams finished with 29 shots on goal and Richards was tagged with the loss after making 24 saves. Rockford went 1-5 on the power play while holding Abbotsford to just one power play try, which the Heat came up empty on.  Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 22 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m.The IceHogs welcome the Chicago Wolves to the BMO Harris Bank Center for the first of 12 meetings. Fans can purchase a special family four pack for $49 that includes four tickets, four Culvers concrete mixers and four tickets to the Discovery Center’s “Peanuts….Naturally” exhibit. The four pack can be purchased at the BMO Harris Bank Box Office, Discovery Center or at any Rockford area Culver’s locations.