[truebluefan]

Countdown to Face-Off

A rivalry will be renewed tonight when the Kalamazoo Wings hit the road to battle the Fort Wayne Komets in the first half of a home and home series, which concludes tomorrow at Wing Stadium. This is the second of ten meetings between the archrivals; Kalamazoo leads the season series with a record of 1-0-0.

Four in a row, that's how many consecutive games away from Wings Stadium the K-Wings have won. Kalamazoo will look to extend that streak with an added boost to their lineup. Forwards Lucas Drake, Jason Lawmaster and defenseman Chris McAllister will all be in the lineup tonight for Kalamazoo.

With nine wins at Memorial Coliseum, only the Muskegon Fury have more victories (11) on home ice than Fort Wayne. The Komets come into the game atop the Western Conference, just four points ahead of the Rockford IceHogs.

Team Leaders: Kalamazoo Wings Fort Wayne Komets

Goals: Nick Bootland (14 Goals) J.C. Ruid (16 Goals)

Assists: Glenn Detulleo (18 Assists) Guy Dupuis (20 Assists)

Points: Kory Karlander (25 Points) J.C. Ruid (29 Points)

+/-: Jeff Brown (+8) Bogdan Rudenko (+9)

Penalty Minutes: Tyler Willis (73 Minutes) Mario Larocque (135 Minutes)

Power Play Goals: Justin Cross (7 Goals) Mario Larocque (7 Goals)

Short Handed Goals: Scott Dobben (2 Goals) J.C. Ruid, Jonathan Goodwin

K.J. Voorhees (1 Goal)

Game Winning Goals: Nick Bootland (4 GW) J.C. Ruid (4 GW)

Shots: Nick Bootland (106 Shots) Guy Dupuis (86 Shots)

Shooting Percentage: Justin Cross (16.9%) J.C. Ruid (20.0%)

Shootout Goals: Alexander Valentin, Glenn Detulleo, J.C. Ruid (3 Goals)

Kory Karlander (1 Goal)

Shootout Percentage: Alexander Valentin, Glenn Detulleo J.C. Ruid (100%)

Kory Karlander (100%)

Goals Against Average: Ryan Nie (2.00) Kevin St. Pierre (2.17)

Save Percentage: Ryan Nie (0.934) Kevin St. Pierre (0.928)

All-Time/ Season Series

All-Time Series: K-Wings Trail All-Time Series: 23-25-9

Season Series: K-Wings Lead Season Series: 1-0-0

Last Meeting: K-Wings Won 3-2 November 10th @ Wings Stadium in Kalamazoo, Michigan

Next Meeting: Saturday, December 16th @ Wings Stadium in Kalamazoo, Michigan

Mr. O.T Returns

Tonight will be the first-time that forward Lucas Drake has donned a K-Wings jersey since scoring the Colonial Cup clinching goal last May. Drake started this season in the ECHL with the Columbia Inferno.

Strike Force

Kalamazoo will have a physical presence on the ice, as both Chris McAllister and Jason Lawmaster dress against Fort Wayne. McAllister has missed the last three games due to injury, while Lawmaster makes his K-Wings debut after being traded to Kalamazoo last Monday.

A Triple Threat

With three goals over the weekend by Kory Karlander, the K-Wings now have three players on their roster with more than 10 goals; Nick Bootland with 14, Justin Cross with 12 and Karlander with 11. Each of these three players had at least one goal in the past three games.

Road Warriors

The K-Wings continue to impress on the road. They now have a four-game road-win streak and a record of 8-3-0 when away from Wings Stadium. Kalamazoo's road win streak started back on November 25th and includes victories over Flint, Chicago, Muskegon and Port Huron.

Tickets, Get Your Tickets!!

Tickets for all K-Wings home games are now on sale. Catch all the action as your K-Wings play the very best the UHL has to offer. Tickets are on sale now by calling the Wings Stadium Ticket Office at (269) 345-5101.

Get On-Line

This season, the best way to keep track of the K-Wings is to log onto :: Wings Stadium - Home of Kalamazoo Wings Hockey ::. The site has player profiles, photos, information about Wings Stadium events, and much much more. Fans of myspace can befriend the official site of Wings Stadium and the Kalamazoo Wings at www.myspace.com/wingsstadium.

Valentin and Versteeg-Lytwyn on the Radio

Join special guests Alexander Valentin and Mark Versteeg-Lytwyn, as they join Head Coach Mark Reeds and the Voice of the K-Wings, Mike Modugno on "K-Wings Live". The show is on Sports Radio AM 1660 Mondays from 6-7 PM at The Cabana Bar and Grille inside the Holiday Inn Kalamazoo on South 11th Street.

K-Wings on Radio

Catch all the K-Wings games home and away on the K-Wings Radio Network (WLKM 95.9 FM and Sports Radio AM 1660). Join the Voice of the K-Wings, Mike Modugno for all 76 regular season games plus the playoffs. Pre-game coverage begins with the Digital Highway Pre-Game Show 15 minutes prior to face-off. For the most complete coverage of the K-Wings from the Opening Face-Off to the Final Buzzer, keep your radio tuned this season to the K-Wings Radio Network.

Upcoming Games

Saturday, December 16th Vs. Fort Wayne 7:30 PM (7th Annual Teddy Bear Toss Night Presented by Kodiak Construction, WKFR, WOTV)

Sunday, December 17th Vs. Elmira 4:00 PM

Friday, December 22nd Vs. Muskegon 7:30 PM (Fed-Ex Kinko's Night)

Saturday, December 23rd Vs. Port Huron 7:30 PM (Santa Claus comes to Wings Stadium)

 

[truebluefan]

Fast start propels Fury past PrairieThunder, 4-0

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. - Todd Robinson continued his rapid scoring pace Friday night by netting two goals and adding an assist to lead the Muskegon Fury to a 4-0 victory over Bloomington before 3,454 people at U.S. Cellular Coliseum.

The Fury, who lead the United Hockey League with a 23-3 record, recorded its franchise-record eighth straight win. The loss dropped the PrairieThunder's record to 8-16 ahead of tonight's 7:30 Western Conference game at Rockford.

Robinson, who leads the UHL in goals scored and points, scored his first goal 4:18 into the first period off assists by Mike Watt and Rustyn Dolyny. The Fury took a 2-0 lead two minutes on a goal by Dolyny. He was assisted by Watt and Robinson.

Neither team scored in the second period, but the Fury added two more goals in the third period. Robinson scored his 23rd goal of the year at the 16-minute mark. He was assisted by Justin Coutu and Dolyny. Robinson has scored 55 points this season.

Muskegon's final tally came on Philippe Plante's goal three minutes later off an assist by Evan Kotsopoulos. The PrairieThunder outshot the Fury, 35-31.

 

[truebluefan]

Flags Beat Jackals 4-2

Port Huron, MI - The Port Huron Flags won their second consecutive game against the Elmira Jackals with a 4-2 win Friday night at McMorran Place Arena.

The Jackals got off to a rocky start when they gave up the opening goal at 7:49 of the first period. After a turnover near the blue line, Jackals goaltender Kris Tebbs robbed Ryan Markham on a breakaway, but Steve Hildenbrand swooped in on the rebound and scored for a 1-0 lead. Elmira caught up when rookie defenseman Derek Miller, playing his first pro game as a forward, scored his first career professional goal. Miller took a cross-ice pass from David Morelli and unleashed a hard slap shot from the top of the right wing circle that beat goalie Noah Ruden at 8:59. But the Flags regained the lead off another failed Jackals clearing attempt. Bobby Kukulka stole the puck off a back-check just inside the offensive blue line, and then executed a give-and-go with Greg Bullock at 15:49, Kukulka's 3rd goal in his last two games, all against Elmira.

In the second period, the Flags received three consecutive power plays in the first eight minutes, but Elmira's stingy penalty kill kept Port Huron from extending their lead. However, late in the period the Flags caught Elmira sleeping in front of their goal as rookie defenseman Craig Mahon slipped through the defenses for a one-timer. Kris Tebbs denied his initial shot but Mahon corralled his own rebound and scored his first professional goal at 18:37, assisted by Greg Bullock and Mark Cadotte.

Yevgeny Lazarev scored his 11th goal of the season at 7:14 of the third period, capping off a wonderful passing combination between Lazarev and Erik Anderson, cutting the Flags lead to 3-2; Scott Wray also assisted on the goal. But as the Jackals tried to find the equalizer, Port Huron's Mike Olynyk put the game out of reach. Olynyk knocked in a one-timer from Colt King and Chris Bogas at 19:24, giving the Flags a 4-2 win.

Noah Ruden earned his 2nd win of the season and second straight win over the Jackals as he made 26 saves on 28 shots, improving Port Huron to 8-14-4. Kris Tebbs stopped 33-of-37 shots in goal as the Jackals lost their third straight game, dropping to 13-11-0 this season. Elmira was 0-for-5 on the power play, while Port Huron was 0-for-7.

The Jackals continue their weekend road trip Saturday night against the Flint Generals at Perani's Arena at 7:30 pm. Sunday Elmira will face the Kalamazoo Wings for the first time since the opening weekend of the season. The Jackals return to First Arena on Friday, December 29th as they host the Port Huron Flags at 7:35 pm.

 

[truebluefan]

Countdown to Face-Off

For the second straight night, the Kalamazoo Wings will lace up their skates against archrivals, the Fort Wayne Komets. Fort Wayne defeated Kalamazoo 2-1 last night at Memorial Coliseum and in the process tied both the season series and second place in the league with the K-Wings.

Besides concluding a home and home series with Fort Wayne, tonight's contest also commences a four-game home stand for the K-Wings. On the season, Kalamazoo is 7-5-0 at Wings Stadium, including a 3-2 victory over Fort Wayne back on November 10th.

While the Komets have dominated at home, they are at the .500 mark away from Memorial Coliseum. Fort Wayne, who is 5-5-0 in road games, starts the night six points ahead of the Rockford IceHogs for first place honors in the Western Conference.

Team Leaders: Kalamazoo Wings Fort Wayne Komets

Goals: Nick Bootland (15 Goals) J.C. Ruid (16 Goals)

Assists: Glenn Detulleo (18 Assists) Guy Dupuis (20 Assists)

Points: Kory Karlander, Nick Bootland (25 Points) J.C. Ruid (29 Points)

+/-: Jeff Brown (+8) Bogdan Rudenko (+9)

Penalty Minutes: Tyler Willis (73 Minutes) Mario Larocque (141 Minutes)

Power Play Goals: Justin Cross (7 Goals) Mario Larocque (7 Goals)

Short Handed Goals: Scott Dobben (2 Goals) J.C. Ruid, Jonathan Goodwin

K.J. Voorhees, David Hukalo (1 Goal)

Game Winning Goals: Nick Bootland (4 GW) J.C. Ruid (4 GW)

Shots: Nick Bootland (112 Shots) Guy Dupuis (90 Shots)

Shooting Percentage: Chris McAllister (16.7%) Bruce Richardson (21.2%)

Shootout Goals: Alexander Valentin, Kory Karlander, J.C. Ruid (3 Goals)

Glenn Detulleo (1 Goal)

Shootout Percentage: Alexander Valentin, Kory Karlander J.C. Ruid (100%)

Glenn Detulleo (100%)

Goals Against Average: Ryan Nie (2.00) Kevin St. Pierre (2.11)

Save Percentage: Ryan Nie (0.934) Kevin St. Pierre (0.930)

All-Time/ Season Series

All-Time Series: K-Wings Trail All-Time Series: 23-26-9

Season Series: Season Series is Tied: 1-0-0

Last Meeting: K-Wings Lost 2-1 December 15th @ Allen County War Memorial Coliseum in Fort Wayne, IN

Next Meeting: Saturday, December 30th @ Allen County War Memorial Coliseum in Fort Wayne, Indiana

Ready Teddy

Tonight is the Seventh Annual Teddy Bear Toss night presented by Kodiak Construction, WOTV and WKFR. When the K-Wings score their first goal, fans are encouraged to throw bears or other stuffed animals onto the ice. A majority of the bears collected will go to the Angel Tree Foundation. The remaining bears will be delivered to the Children's Hospital this Monday at 2 p.m. by Slappy and K-Wings players.

Home Sweet Home

This evening starts a four-game home stand for the K-Wings. On the season, Kalamazoo is 7-5-0 in games played at Wings Stadium.

Rookie Sensation

Forward Justin Cross has adjusted well to life in the UHL. Cross leads all rookies in overall goals (12) and power-play tallies (7).

How the West is Won

Despite the loss last night to Fort Wayne, Kalamazoo has played well against the Western Conference. On the season, the K-Wings are 6-3-0 against teams from the west.

Tickets, Get Your Tickets!!

Tickets for all K-Wings home games are now on sale. Catch all the action as your K-Wings play the very best the UHL has to offer. Tickets are on sale now by calling the Wings Stadium Ticket Office at (269) 345-5101.

Get On-Line

This season, the best way to keep track of the K-Wings is to log onto :: Wings Stadium - Home of Kalamazoo Wings Hockey ::. The site has player profiles, photos, information about Wings Stadium events, and much much more. Fans of myspace can befriend the official site of Wings Stadium and the Kalamazoo Wings at www.myspace.com/wingsstadium.

Valentin and Versteeg-Lytwyn on the Radio

Join special guests Alexander Valentin and Mark Versteeg-Lytwyn, as they join Head Coach Mark Reeds and the Voice of the K-Wings, Mike Modugno on "K-Wings Live". The show is on Sports Radio AM 1660 Mondays from 6-7 PM at The Cabana Bar and Grille inside the Holiday Inn Kalamazoo on South 11th Street.

K-Wings on Radio

Catch all the K-Wings games home and away on the K-Wings Radio Network (WLKM 95.9 FM and Sports Radio AM 1660). Join the Voice of the K-Wings, Mike Modugno for all 76 regular season games plus the playoffs. Pre-game coverage begins with the Digital Highway Pre-Game Show 15 minutes prior to face-off. For the most complete coverage of the K-Wings from the Opening Face-Off to the Final Buzzer, keep your radio tuned this season to the K-Wings Radio Network.

Upcoming Games

Sunday, December 17th Vs. Elmira 4:00 PM

Friday, December 22nd Vs. Muskegon 7:30 PM (Fed-Ex Kinko's Night)

Saturday, December 23rd Vs. Port Huron 7:30 PM (Santa Claus comes to Wings Stadium)

Tuesday, December 26th @ Muskegon 7:30 PM

Wednesday, December 27th @ Port Huron 7:00 PM

 

[truebluefan]

Hogs limp through 4-1 defeat to Mallards

Rockford, Ill.- After a quick start in the first period the Rockford IceHogs fell back into a funk on Friday night, dropping a 4-1 decision to the rival Quad City Mallards in front of 3,249 at the Rockford MetroCentre. History was made as Mallards winger Don Parsons netted a pair of goals, including his 600th career goal.

The first period was dominated by the IceHogs as they peppered Quad City goalie Jason Tapp with a franchise record tying 25 shots on goal. Unfortunately for Rockford, only one of those shots found the back of the net. At 10:41 of the first period, Hogs center Mike Doyle set up Rockford winger Mike Letizia who fired in his first career regular season goal putting the IceHogs up 1-0.

That was it for Rockford on the offensive side as the Mallards took control with a pair of power-play goals in the second period. Quad City tied the score when center Brett Pilkington's centering pass deflected off of Hogs d-man Luke Fritshaw's stick and past goalie Frederic Cloutier at 2:31. Then, at 11:47, center Patrick Nadeau put the Mallards on top with another power-play tally, snapping home his third goal of the campaign. After 25 first period shots, the Hogs managed just four in the second frame.

Parsons later provided some insurance with a pair of goals in the third period. His first at 5:55 was Quad City's only even strength goal of the night giving his club a 3-1 advantage. Just over a minute after Hogs winger Nicolas Corbeil was stoned by Tapp on a penalty shot, Parson netted his 600th career marker with a wrister from the slot past Cloutier at 10:36.

That was more than enough for the Mallards as they held on for the win despite getting outshot by Rockford 40-27. The Hogs power play went 0-for-5 while Quad City finished the night 3-for-8.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Dec. 16 vs. Bloomington PrairieThunder. The puck drops at 7:05 p.m. Another match-up with the Thunder at the MetroCentre. The IceHogs and Insight Communications welcome Dora the Explorer to Rockford on Saturday. Fans are encouraged to bring their cameras as kids can pose for a photo with one of TV's top animated stars!

 

[truebluefan]

Flags Serve Up Duck Souffle in 5-2 Victory over Mallards

(PORT HURON, MICH.) - The Port Huron Flags controlled the entire game at McMorran, handing the Quad City Mallards a 5-2 loss in front of 1,745 fans on Saturday night.

Right off the bat, the Flags got things going with a power play goal at 4:16 in the first. Bobby Kukulka scored off assists from Greg Bullock and Chris Bogas, a minute after Jami Yoder was called for holding. Colt King increased the lead to 2-0 during another power play at 13:51. Nick Harloff was sent to the box for holding the stick, and B.J. Adams and Kukulka set up King's deflection for the score. Port Huron outshot Quad City, 15-13 in the first period.

The Mallards had a big opportunity in the second when a holding call on Jeremy Tucker and a cross-checking call on Adams gave Quad City a 5-on-3 advantage. What would have been the Mallards first goal was not credited as a result of the net coming off the mooring beforehand. Garett Cameron put the Flags up 3-0, when he beat Jason Tapp at the net, assisted by Bullock and Kukulka at 8:47. When Mike Olynyk scored the fourth Flags goal of the night at 12:31, Tapp was replaced in the net by Zach Sikich. Olynyk's goal came off assists from Shayne Tomlinson and Tucker. Quad City recorded 16 shots on goal while Port Huron took 10.

Quad City finally broke the shut-out at 3:33 in the third period when Tomlinson and Mahon were sent to the penalty box 13 seconds apart, leaving the Mallards with a 5-on-3 advantage just long enough for Don Parsons to score. At 3:33, he put the visitors on the board, assisted by Sergei Durdin and B.J. Radoslovich. Less than a minute later, Nick Harloff scored, with the assists credited to Luke Stauffacher and Justin Chwedoruk. It looked like the Mallards might turn the tables, until Steve Hildenbrand scored on a power play at 13:18, with assists from Pat Sutton and Bullock. Quad City had another 5-on-3 advantage when Rob Snowball was handed a roughing call along with a misconduct, followed by roughing on Hildebrand, but another great stand from Traylen and the defense prevented the visitors' attempt to get back in it. Port Huron's 12 shots on goal were bested by Quad City's 16.

AT&T's 1st, 2nd and 3rd Stars of the Game were awarded to Kukulka, Cameron and Bullock, respectively. Port Huron's next home game is Sunday, Dec. 17 at 5 p.m., against the Flint Generals.

BUY 2 GAME TICKETS, GET THE 3rd FREE! Now through January, the Flags are offering a special deal to ensure that fans don't miss a minute of the action. With the purchase of 2 game tickets, the 3rd is free, when purchased in advance through the Flags office. Call (810) 982-FLAG to reserve yours today!

The Port Huron Flags are a community owned, nonprofit member club of the United Hockey League. For more information on the 2006-07 season, contact the front office at (810) 982-3524 or visit the website at porthuronflags.net: Home.

 

[truebluefan]

Flags Tame Jackals, 4-2

(PORT HURON, MICH.) - After beating the Elmira Jackals, 2-1, on the road on Wednesday, the Port Huron Flags returned home to double their goal count and their winning streak in front of 1,725 fans, by a score of 4-2.

In an unusual turn of events, there were an equal number of penalties called as goals scored in the first period. The Flags defense came up strong and managed to kill all three Elmira power plays. Steve Hildenbrand lit up the scoreboard at 7:29, rebounding a shot from Ryan Markham past Jackals Goaltender Kris Tebbs. Derek Miller answered at 9:59, shooting over Noah Ruden's glove to tie the game. At 15:49, Bobby Kukulka, who scored both goals in the Flags victory Wednesday, put the Flags up 2-1 off assists from Garett Cameron and Greg Bullock. Both teams shot on goal 13 times during the period.

Craig Mahon earned his first goal of the season at 18:37 in the second, dumping the puck beyond Tebbs, with the assists credited to Bullock and Mark Cadotte. A slight scuffle broke out in front of the Elmira net, with a tenth of a second left on the clock. Jeremy Tucker and Chris Mann were each handed roughing penalties, while Mark Scott received two minutes for hooking. All three were served at the start of the third period, while Port Huron outshot Elmira, 15 to 5, in the second.

Elmira made a game of it in the third, scoring at 7:14, off the stick of Yevgeny Lazarev, who was assisted by Erik Anderson and Scott Wray. However, with only 35 seconds left in the game, Colt King stole the puck from Elmira and set up a perfect shot for Mike Olynyk, who capitalized. Chris Bogas was also credited with the assist. Port Huron's nine shots on goal were bested by Elmira's ten, but the Jackals were unable to come up with enough bite to stop the Flags. The Flags' victory improves the Port Huron-Elmira series record to 2-2-1, and gives Ruden his second consecutive professional win.

AT&T's 1st, 2nd and 3rd Stars of the Game were awarded to Kukulka, Mahon and Ruden, respectively. The Flags next home game is Saturday, Dec. 16, at 7:30 p.m., against the Quad City Mallards.

BUY 2 GAME TICKETS, GET THE 3rd FREE! Now through January, the Flags are offering a special deal to ensure that fans don't miss a minute of the action. With the purchase of 2 game tickets, the 3rd is free, when purchased in advance through the Flags office. Call (810) 982-FLAG to reserve yours today!

The Port Huron Flags are a community owned, nonprofit member club of the United Hockey League. For more information on the 2006-07 season, contact the front office at (810) 982-3524 or visit the website at porthuronflags.net: Home.

 

[truebluefan]

Rockford makes statement with victory

Rockford, Ill.- After starting its current 3-game homestand with two losses where nothing went right, the Rockford IceHogs wanted to make a statement that they weren't packing it in. They accomplished exactly that on Saturday night at the Rockford MetroCentre as the Hogs returned to the win column in a 7-0 thumping of the PrairieThunder.

Rockford center Kevin Ulanski began the scoring onslaught at the 15:39 mark of the first period when he knocked in a point blank rebound shot. The goal was set up by winger Nicolas Corbeil and it was the lone goal of the first frame.

The Hogs added two more goals in the second period. The first of which came at 2:15 when winger Chaz Johnson was fed the puck from d-man Tim Wedderburn after he forced a turnover and got the puck up-ice. The second goal of the period, third of the night, came at 7:50 when Jesse Bennefield picked up a long pass on a breakaway from defenseman Matt Gens and deeked Bloomington goalie Jeff Reynaert for one of the prettiest goals of the season thus far.

The third period brought more of the same as the IceHogs added four more goals to the scoresheet. Chaz Johnson notched his second of the night when he fooled Reynaert at 4:13. At 9:28, Corbeil scored the only power-play goal of the game on a 3-on-1 breakaway.

Rockford's leading goal-scorer, forward Kaleb Betts, got into the action at the 15:11 mark of the third period, beating Reynaert short side for his twelfth goal of the year. Jesse Bennefield notched the final lamp-lighter of the contest at 18:21 on a pass from defenseman Mike Letizia. Bennefield found himself all alone in front and slipped in his ninth of the campaign.

It was a quiet game on the penalty front as Rockford went 1-for-2 on the power play and Bloomington went 0-for-2. Rockford also outshot the Thunder 45-to-16. In the five previous meetings this season between these two clubs the road team won the contest. Tonight marked the first time the home team came out with the win. The two teams next meet on New Year's Eve in Bloomington.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Dec. 23 vs. Flint Generals. The puck drops at 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs welcome the surging Flint Generals to town for the first time this season. The Rockford Park District is sponsoring Santa Hat Night where the first 1,000 fans will receive a free IceHogs Santa Hat.

 

[truebluefan]

Generals Bombard Jackals 6-3

Flint, MI - The Flint Generals scored four power play goals on their way to a 6-3 victory over the Elmira Jackals Saturday night at Perani's Arena.

Flint got off to a flying start as they looked to pick up their first win in 5 games against the Jackals. The Generals killed off an early Elmira power play and then saw the Jackals get called for four-straight penalties. Defenseman Gerard Miller blasted in a slap shot on a 5-on-3 power play at 6:55 of the first period, assisted by Bobby Reynolds and Terry Marchant for a 1-0 lead. Miller then doubled Flint's advantage with his second power play goal of the game, scored at 9:41 on a wrist shot, his 8th goal of the year, assisted again by Reynolds and Marchant. But the Jackals pulled one back as Yevgeny Lazarev, playing through an injury suffered Friday in Port Huron, weaved his way right through the Flint defense for an unassisted power play goal at 18:41. The goal was Lazarev's 2nd goal in as many games and his 12th of the season.

Flint continued to have success on the power play in the second period. Dion Hyman collected a rebound from a Tony Tuzzolino shot that rang off the post and tapped the puck into an open net at 1:02 for another power play goal. Tuzzolino then added Flint's 4th power play goal of the game at 12:18 of the period, scoring on a wrist shot from the right face off circle and extending the Generals lead to three.

In the third period, Terry Marchant gave Flint a 5-1 lead when he scored the Generals only even strength goal of the game at 2:42. But the Jackals came back as captain Brent Cullaton scored a power play goal at 13:15, assisted by Frank Littlejohn. Cullaton then set up rookie forward Dan Veenema for an even-strength goal at 18:03, cutting the Flint lead to 5-3. The goal was Veenema's first career professional goal and his second pro point; he had an assist Friday in Port Huron. The Jackals pulled goaltender Kris Tebbs in an attempt to claw back from the two-goal deficit in the final 90 seconds of the game, but Jason Selleke capped off the scoring with an empty net goal at 19:31 and a 6-3 Flint win.

Bryan Worosz earned the win in goal for Flint by stopping 30-of-33 shots as the Generals improved to 12-14-2 on the season, now tied for 3rd place in the Eastern Conference with the Jackals. Elmira's goalie Kris Tebbs made 27 saves on 32 shots as Elmira lost their fourth straight game, falling to 13-2-0 on the year. Flint was 4-for-8 on the power play; while Elmira was 2-for-9.

The Jackals finish off their weekend road trip Sunday afternoon against the defending Colonial Cup Champion Kalamazoo Wings for the first time since the opening weekend of the season. The Jackals return to First Arena on Friday, December 29th as they host the Port Huron Flags at 7:35 pm.

 

[truebluefan]

Muskegon Fury notes

-the Fury's Latest Winning Streak Has Reached 5-in A Row, Outscoring Their Opponents, 19-8 For A Gaa In That Span Of 1.60.

--muskegon In Its Last 9-games, Is 9(8-1-0), Outscoring The Opposition, 33-15 For A Gaa Of 1.67.

--with Their 3-2 Triumph Saturday Night In Chicago, The Fury Have Established A New Club Record For Consecutive Wins On The Road At 9-in A Row; 9(9-0-0). Their Last And Lone Loss Abroad Was Back On November 4th In Elmira, 7-4.

--by Sweeping A Pair Of Road Games The Past Weekend Against Western Division Competition, The Fury Have Elevated Their Record Against The West To An Undefeated, 11(11-0-0) Overall And 5(5-0-0) On The Road.

--in Posting A 4-0 Shutout Victory Friday Night At Bloomington, The Fury Remained Perfect Personified On Fridays This Season At 10(10-0-0) Overall And 5(5-0-0) On The Road.

--thus Far In The Month Of December The Fury Have Compiled A Record Of 7(6-1-0), Outscoring Their Opposition, 24-12.

--the Fury Have Scored 3-gf Or More In 23 Of Their First 27-games, Posting A Record In That Department Of 23(22-1-0).

--the Fury Have Outscored Their Opposition In The First Period Thus Far This Season, 39-16 Overall; 21-8 At Home And 18-8 On The Road.

--the Fury's Best Period, Though, Has Been The Second Stanza In Which They Have Outscored The Opposition, 46-16 Overall; 19-7 At Home And 27-9 On The Road.

--the Fury's Current Total Of 24-victories; 27(24-3-0)48, Represent 8-more Wins Than All Other Clubs In The Uhl.

--muskegon's 13-road Wins; 14(13-1-0), Represent 5-more Road Wins Than The Rest Of The League.

--as The Highest Scoring Team In The Uhl, The Fury (121) Have Scored 33-more Goals Than The Rest Of The League.

--the Fury Have Posted The Uhl's Foremost Home Record At 13(11-2-0) With Both Home Setbacks By A Minuscule One-goal Margin.

--in Their Last 134-regular Season Games, The Fury Have Assembled A Lustrous Record Of 134(97-25-12) For A Win Percentage Of .769.

--in Their Last 107-regular Season Home Games, The Fury Are 107(84-17-6) For A Winning Percentage Of .813.

--thus Far This Season, The Fury Have Composed Two 8-game Win Streaks, One 3-game Win Streak And Their Current 5-game Victory Streak.

--the Fury Right Wing And Team Captain Rustyn Dolyny Has Now Produced The Uhl's Best Point Streak Of The Season At 13-games With 13(5-17-22) In That Span.

--left Wing Mike Watt Is Currently On An 8-game Streak With 8(6-10-16).

--center Todd Robinson Is On A 5-game Point Streak; 5(5-7-12).

--muskegon Defenseman Justin Coutu Has Scored 5-goals Thus Far This Season Including 3-ppg And 3-gwg.

--golatender Clayton Pool Leads The Uhl In Wins: 17; Gaa: 1.74; Spct: .942.

--clayton Pool Is A Perfect 11(11-0-0) On The Road This Season With A 1.62 Gaa.

--in His Last 4-games, Clayton Pool Is 4(4-0-0); Ga: 3; Gaa: 0.75; Spct: .976; With 2-shutouts.

--clayton Pool Remains The Lone Uhl Goaltender Undefeated On The Road At 11(11-0-0) With A 1.62 Gaa, Accounting For 11 Of The Fury's 13-road Wins This Season.

--in His Last 14-games, Clayton Pool Has Yielded Only 21-ga For A Gaa Of 1.50.

--appearing In His 100th Fury Career Game The Past Friday Night In Bloomington, Clayton Pool Celebrated To The Tune Of His Third Shutout Of The Season And His 6th In His Fury Career.

--center Todd Robinson (196) Is Just 4-goals Away From Overall Pro Career 200

 

[truebluefan]

Countdown to Face-Off

For the third time this season, the Kalamazoo Wings will battle the Elmira Jackals. Kalamazoo won the first two previous meetings by a combined score of 9-1. After today, the two teams will face-off six more times, including four at Wings Stadium.

With a six-point lead over Elmira for second place in the Eastern Conference, the K-Wings come into this afternoon's contest looking to create a little breathing room between them and the Jackals. Kalamazoo will also try to move closer to Muskegon, as the K-Wings trail the idle Fury by 16 points in the east.

Elmira comes into the Wings Stadium looking to snap a four-game losing streak. The Jackals roster will be a little short, as the team is missing the services three players due to injury and three another three players due to league/team suspension.

Team Leaders: Kalamazoo Wings Elmira Jackals

Goals: Nick Bootland (16 Goals) Scott Wray (13 Goals)

Assists: Glenn Detulleo (19 Assists) Brent Cullaton (16 Assists)

Points: Nick Bootland (26 Points) Scott Wray (24 Points)

+/-: Jeff Brown (+8) Dale Lupul (+7)

Penalty Minutes: Tyler Willis (73 Minutes) Curtis Tidball (171 Minutes)

Power Play Goals: Justin Cross (7 Goals) Scott Wray, Frank Littlejohn (5 Goals)

Short Handed Goals: Scott Dobben (2 Goals) Frank Littlejohn (5 Goals)

Game Winning Goals: Nick Bootland (4 GW) Frank Littlejohn (3 GW)

Shots: Nick Bootland (115 Shots) Scott Wray (124 Shots)

Shooting Percentage: Lucas Drake (27.3%) Chanse Fitzpatrick (28.6%)

Shootout Goals: Alexander Valentin, Kory Karlander Erik Anderson (4 Goals)

Glenn Detulleo (1 Goal)

Shootout Percentage: Alexander Valentin, Kory Karlander Erik Anderson, Brent Cullaton,

Glenn Detulleo (100%) Dale Lupul (100%)

Goals Against Average: Ryan Nie (2.00) David Lemanowicz (3.23)

Save Percentage: Ryan Nie (0.934) Kris Tebbs (0.908)

All-Time/ Season Series

All-Time Series: K-Wings Lead All-Time Series: 13-7-1

Season Series: K-Wings Leads Season Series: 2-0-0

Last Meeting: K-Wings Won 5-1 October 15th @ First Arena in Elmira, New York

Next Meeting: Friday, January 26th @ Wings Stadium in Kalamazoo, Michigan

First Day of the Week

Kalamazoo has had success playing on Sunday. The K-Wings, who are 5-1-0 this season on game's played on Sunday, are 45-28-6 all-time on the first day of the Week.

A Night at the Drake

Forward Lucas Drake, who recorded a hat trick in last night's game, loves playing at home. Including the playoffs, Drake has scored 10 goals in his last five appearances at Wings Stadium.

A Balanced Attack

In last night's game against the Fort Wayne Komets, forwards Lucas Drake and Jason Lawmaster recorded their first points of the season as members of the K-Wings. With Drake and Lawmaster receiving points, the K-Wings are the only team in the UHL to have every player on their roster to generate a point.

Finishing Strong

So far this season, the K-Wings best scoring period has been the third. Kalamazoo has outscored the opponents 36-18 in the final stanza.

Tickets, Get Your Tickets!!

Tickets for all K-Wings home games are now on sale. Catch all the action as your K-Wings play the very best the UHL has to offer. Tickets are on sale now by calling the Wings Stadium Ticket Office at (269) 345-5101.

Get On-Line

This season, the best way to keep track of the K-Wings is to log onto :: Wings Stadium - Home of Kalamazoo Wings Hockey ::. The site has player profiles, photos, information about Wings Stadium events, and much much more. Fans of myspace can befriend the official site of Wings Stadium and the Kalamazoo Wings at www.myspace.com/wingsstadium.

Valentin and Versteeg-Lytwyn on the Radio

Join special guests Alexander Valentin and Mark Versteeg-Lytwyn, as they join Head Coach Mark Reeds and the Voice of the K-Wings, Mike Modugno on "K-Wings Live". The show is on Sports Radio AM 1660 Mondays from 6-7 PM at The Cabana Bar and Grille inside the Holiday Inn Kalamazoo on South 11th Street.

K-Wings on Radio

Catch all the K-Wings games home and away on the K-Wings Radio Network (WLKM 95.9 FM and Sports Radio AM 1660). Join the Voice of the K-Wings, Mike Modugno for all 76 regular season games plus the playoffs. Pre-game coverage begins with the Digital Highway Pre-Game Show 15 minutes prior to face-off. For the most complete coverage of the K-Wings from the Opening Face-Off to the Final Buzzer, keep your radio tuned this season to the K-Wings Radio Network.

Upcoming Games

Friday, December 22nd Vs. Muskegon 7:30 PM (Fed Ex Kinko's Night)

Saturday, December 23rd Vs. Port Huron 7:30 PM (Santa Claus comes to Wings Stadium)

Tuesday, December 26th @ Muskegon 7:30 PM

Wednesday, December 27th @ Port Huron 7:00 PM

Friday, December 29th @ Flint 7:30 PM

 

[truebluefan]

Un-bear-lievable

Kalamazoo, MI- The Kalamazoo Wings, proud member of the United Hockey League and 2005-06 Central Division, Tarry Cup and Colonial Cup Champions, announce that 1,239 teddy bears were tossed on the ice during the Seventh Annual Teddy Bear Toss game presented by Kodiak Construction, WOTV and WKFR last Saturday, December 16th at Wings Stadium.

Kalamazoo extended their Teddy Bear Toss Game record to an amazing 11-0-0 (7-0-0 home and 4-0-0 away) with 4-2 victory against the Fort Wayne Komets.

The biggest winners during the game were the kids around southwest Michigan that will receive one of the 1,239 bears tossed during the K-Wings annual game. The bears collected were donated to the Angel Tree foundation, who will give the bears to less fortunate children in southwest Michigan.

Members of the Kalamazoo Wings will also deliver some bears tomorrow, December 18th at 2 p.m., when they visit the Children's Hospital at Bronson. Joining the players in spreading the holiday spirit on the visit will be Slappy and Santa Claus

Over the past seven years, the K-Wings have collected thousands of stuffed animals that were distributed to children during the holidays.

 

[truebluefan]

Tarabrin granted leave of absence

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. - Right wing Dmitri Tarabrin was granted an indefinite leave of absence from the team Sunday by Bloomington PrairieThunder coach Derek Booth because of family issues at home.

"Dmitri has some things at home dealing with his family that he needs to take care of," said Booth. "While we hate to lose a veteran player with so much experience, we understand that family has to come first."

Tarabrin had played in all 25 games for the PrairieThunder, scoring four goals with one assist for five points. Tarabrin's last game as in Saturday's 7-0 loss at Rockford.

"I hate to leave because I really liked the community and the people I met," said Tarabrin. "But I have a situation at home that I need to address. While the team is struggling a little bit right now, I really believe they have a lot of potential.

"The fans have to remember that it's a long season and we're a first-year team. It takes some time for things to come together and people to get comfortable with each other on the team."

The PrairieThunder also announced on Sunday the acquisition of 35-year-old center John Spoltore from Chicago. The 5-foot-10, 195-pounder played in 13 games for the Hounds this year, scoring two goals with six assists for eight points.

Spoltore is in his 12th season as a professional and has scored 258 goals with 692 assists for 950 points. He began his career with the Louisiana IceGators in 1995. His most productive year was 1999-2000 when he scored 119 points. He has scored over 100 points four times in his career.

In other PrairieThunder news, center Tyler Rennette has been moved to the 10-day injured list because of a medical condition and forward Jon Jankus has been placed on the 7-day injured list.

 

[truebluefan]

Jackals Remain Winless Against K-Wings

Kalamazoo, MI - The Elmira Jackals dropped their 5th straight game as they fell to the Kalamazoo Wings 6-2 Sunday afternoon at Wings Stadium.

The Jackals came out with more energy and focus then their previous three games of the week. There was a determination in their eyes and a spring in their step, but it was the home team that got on the board first. Kalamazoo forward Glenn Detulleo scored the only goal of the first period as he knocked in a rebound on the back post for a 1-0 lead at 3:33; assists went to Jesse Rycroft and Nick Toneys.

The Jackals carried their intensity into the start of the 2nd period, but just after the midway point Elmira was called for two straight penalties. The visitors killed off the first penalty, but just 9 seconds after Wes Blevins came out of the penalty box, referee Jim Hawthorne called Frank Littlejohn for high sticking. 11 seconds later Lucas Drake scored at 13:39, doubling Kalamazoo's lead. Exactly two minutes later Drake stole a pass from behind Elmira's goal and found himself all alone in front of the net. Drake slipped a backhand shot into the goal for his second strike of the game at 15:39. Drake's line cashed in again at 18:56 when Scott Dobben made it 4-0 K-Wings.

In the third period Eric Anderson put the Jackals on the board as he scored a power play goal at 6:03, assisted by Dale Lupul and Scott Wray. But this game belonged to the K-Wings as Nick Bootland made it 5-1 at 8:35 scoring Kalamazoo's 2nd power play goal of the game. Bootland then scored his second straight goal at 15:58 of the third period to make it 6-1 Kalamazoo. Mark Scott would score his first goal as a member of the Jackals, unassisted at 17:06, capping off the scoring and a 6-2 K-Wings win.

Ryan Nie earned the win as he stopped 32-of-34 in goal for Kalamazoo, while Kris Tebbs made 25 saves on 31 shots for the Jackals. Elmira falls to 13-13-0 on the season and were 1-for-6 on the power play, while the K-Wings improve to 17-9-0 on the year and finished 2-for-6 on the power play.

Next up for the Jackals is a rematch with the Fort Wayne Komets next Friday night December 22nd in Fort Wayne for an 8:00 pm face off. The Jackals return to First Arena on Friday, December 29th as they host the Port Huron Flags at 7:35 pm.

 

[truebluefan]

Flags Halt Generals' March in 4-3 Victory

(PORT HURON, MICH.) - In the final seconds of the game, the Port Huron Flags scored to win their fourth straight game, and snapping the Flint Generals' four-game winning streak, by a final score of 4-3.

Flint recorded the first goal of the night at 4:40, just 15 seconds into a power play that occurred as a result of a high sticking call on Bobby Kukulka. Jeff Zehr put the puck beyond the reach of Dustin Traylen, with an assist from Mike Kinnie. Port Huron outshot Flint, 19 to 11, in the first period.

Five minutes into the third, a bizarre series of events occurred, as three goals were scored in 32 seconds. Steve Hildenbrand was sent to the box for interference at 4:33. Twelve seconds later, Greg Bullock sent a rocket from beyond the left circle that Jason Muzzatti was unable to stop. The Flags shorthanded goal was answered directly back by Dion Hyman at 5:06. Assisted by Tony Tuzzolino and Kinnie, Hyman put the Generals up by a goal again. Rob Snowball immediately took matters into his own hands and scored at 5:17, unassisted. Near the end of the period, he took action again, dropping his gloves with David Frawley and dominating the fight from start to finish. Port Huron took 17 shots on goal during the second, while Flint recorded nine.

The Generals took full advantage of a 5-on-3 power play to score at 4:57 in the third, off the stick of Gerrard Miller, assisted by Bobby Reynolds and Jordan Fox. Down by a goal, the Flags rallied to tie the game on a beautiful score by Mark Cadotte, off well-placed assists from Steve Hildenbrand and Ryan Markham. When Kinnie was called for hooking and misconduct at 18:40 in the third, the Flags took full advantage, shooting the game-winning goal with 11 seconds left in the game. Bobby Kukulka, assisted by Hildenbrand and Chris Bogas, won the game for Port Huron, setting off a frustrated head coach from Flint. Kevin Kerr threw the Flint sticks onto the ice, earning a game misconduct and being ejected from the rink.

AT&T's 1st, 2nd and 3rd Stars of the Game were awarded to Kukulka, Snowball and Traylen, respectively. The next home game for the Flags is on Friday, Dec. 22 at 7:30 p.m., against the Bloomington PrairieThunder.

FLAGS FAMILY CHRISTMAS PACKAGE: 4-4-4 FOR $44 - Next Friday, Dec. 22, a $44 purchase will get you four tickets, four hot dogs and four soft drinks, along with a souvenir pennant and program. Contact the Flags office to take advantage of this offer.

BUY 2 GAME TICKETS, GET THE 3rd FREE! Now through January, the Flags are offering a special deal to ensure that fans don't miss a minute of the action. With the purchase of 2 game tickets, the 3rd is free, when purchased in advance through the Flags office. Call (810) 982-FLAG to reserve yours today!

The Port Huron Flags are a community owned, nonprofit member club of the United Hockey League. For more information on the 2006-07 season, contact the front office at (810) 982-3524 or visit the website at porthuronflags.net: Home.

 

[truebluefan]

Booras earns Player of the Week award

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. - Forward Jon Booras is the recipient of the PrairieThunder "Player of the Week" award, courtesy of Bloomington's Lone Star Restaurant.

The 5-foot-11, 180-pound Booras earned the weekly honor by recording one goal and one assist for two points in the PrairieThunder's 3-1 victory over Rockford. For the season, Boorastwo goals and seven assists for nine points.

The PrairieThunder returns to action Wednesday in a 7 p.m. Western Conference game in the United Hockey League at Moline against Quad City. The PrairieThunder's next home game is Tuesday (Dec. 26) at 7:05 p.m. against Flint at U.S. Cellular Coliseum.

 

[truebluefan]

Generals Weekly Recap

Record for week: 2-1-0, 4 points

Record for season: 12-15-2, 26 points - Tied for 3rd in Eastern Conference

Player Notes: Gerard Miller leads the Generals with 20 points on 10 goals and 10 assists...Jason Selleke and Mike Zbriger lead the team with 11 goals...Dion Hyman is on a two game goal scoring streak...Tony Tuzzolino has scored a point in five straight games and has a point in 10 of 12 games played this year...Miller has a two game goal scoring streak and a four game point streak...Mike Kinnie has a five game point streak with one goal and four assists in that span...Bryan Worosz has won his last three starts and has a .930 save percentage in those games.

Team Notes: The Generals 29 games played this season is most of any UHL team...The Generals lead the league with 40 power play goals...The Generals have the third highest power play percentage at 16.9% and second highest road power play percentage at 18.3%...Flint is eighth in penalty kill at 83.2% and third in road penalty kill at 86.3%...The Generals are seventh in the league in both goals for per game and goals against per game...The Generals are now second in the league in shots on goal against at 29.55.

GENERALS WEEK IN REVIEW December 11-December 17

Friday, December 15 Flint 4 @ Chicago 2

The Generals opened the weekend in Chicago, a team they were 0-2-0 against and had been outscored 10-1 in those games. The Hounds took a 2-0 lead on the Generals with goals at 12:23 and 15:37 of the first period. Jason Selleke scored a power play goal at 6:08 of the second period to cut the deficit to 2-1. David Frawley tied the game 2-2 at 9:10 with an even strength goal. The Generals took the lead for good at 17:01 on a Mike Kinnie power play goal. Selleke scored his second goal of the game at 19:43 of the third period with an empty net goal to end the scoring. The win gave the Generals a season high three game win streak. Bryan Worosz made 24 saves on 26 shots for the win.

Saturday, December 16 Elmira 3 @ Flint 6

Entering this game, the Generals were 0-3-1 against the Jackals this season, 0-2-0 at home. Flint took a 2-0 lead with a pair of power play goals in the first period. Both goals were scored by Gerard Miller with Bobby Reynolds and Terry Marchant assisting on both. Elmira scored a late first period power play goal to make it 2-1 after one period. Dion Hyman and Tony Tuzzolino each scored a power play goal in the second period to extend the Generals lead to 4-1 through two periods of play. Marchant gave the Generals its largest lead of the night at 5-1 with an early third period goal. The Jackals responded with a pair of goal to get within two goals at 5-3. Jason Selleke ended the scoring with an empty net goal at 19:31 for the Generals fourth consecutive win. Bryan Worosz made 30 saves on 33 shots for the win.

Sunday, December 17 Flint 3 @ Port Huron 4

Flint closed the weekend in Port Huron looking for its fifth straight win. The Generals scored the only goal of the first period to take a 1-0 lead. It was a power play goal by Jeff Zehr at 4:40 from Mike Kinnie. In the second period the two teams scored three goals in 32 seconds. Port Huron tied the game 1-1 with a shorthanded goal at 4:45. The Generals took a 2-1 lead on a Dion Hyman power play goal at 5:06 and the Flags tied the game 2-2 with an even strength goal at 5:17. Flint reclaimed the lead 4:57 of the third period on a Gerard Miller power play goal. Port Huron tied the game again at 10:01 and took the lead with a power play goal at 19:48. The loss ended the Generals four game win streak. Jason Muzzatti made 50 saves on 54 shots in the loss.

PREVIEW OF UPCOMING GENERALS GAMES December 18-December 24

Friday, December 22 Flint @ Quad City 8:00p.m.

This will be the first meeting of the season between the Generals and the Mallards. Flint will travel to Quad City three more times after this game and host the Mallards three times during the season.

Saturday, December 23 Flint @ Rockford 8:05p.m.

The Generals travel to Rockford for the first of three games there this season. The Generals are 1-0-0 against Rockford this season, having won at home on December 3 by a 4-3 score.

Generals Player of the Week:

The Generals Player of the Week is Gerard Miller. Miller had five points in three games last week on three goals and two assists. He had two assists in Chicago on Friday, two goals against Elmira on Saturday and one goal in Port Huron on Sunday. All three of his goals were power play goals.

Generals Goaltender of the Week:

The Generals Goaltender of the Week is Bryan Worosz. Worosz went 2-0-0 in two games last week. He made 24 saves on 26 shots in a 4-2 win in Chicago on Friday and 30 saves on 33 shots to beat Elmira on Saturday. His save percentage for the week was .920 and his goals against average was 2.50.

 

[truebluefan]

U.S. Cellular Coliseum sets box office hours

The U.S. Cellular Coliseum has set its hours of operation during the holiday season.

The box office, located at 101 S. Madison, St. in Bloomington, will be closed Saturday through Monday (Dec. 23-Dec. 25). It will re-open at 10 a.m. on Tuesday (Dec. 26) and maintain regular hours of 10 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. through Friday (Dec. 29).

The office will be closed Saturday (Dec. 30) and will re-open Sunday (Dec. 31) at 3 p.m. for the Bloomington PrairieThunder hockey game against Rockford at 6:05 p.m. The box office will be closed Monday (Jan. 1) and Tuesday (Jan. 2).

Tickets can be purchased for any event at U.S. Cellular Coliseum at all hours by going to uscellularcoliseum.com: Home.

 

[truebluefan]

Big win puts Rockford's offense back on track

Suffering through a frustrating offensive drought, the Rockford IceHogs broke through with an impressive seven-goal performance on Saturday to get back on track against the Bloomington PrairieThunder. Rockford set several season highs in the game on Saturday and now face a light two-game week during Week 11 including the first ever trip to the Sears Centre to face-off against the Chicago Hounds on Friday.

Wednesday, Dec. 13: Bloomington PrairieThunder 3 vs. Rockford IceHogs 1

Friday, Dec. 15: Quad City Mallards 4 vs. Rockford IceHogs 1:

Saturday, Dec. 16: Bloomington PrairieThunder 0 vs. Rockford IceHogs 7

Transactions

-Rockford defenseman Tom Zabkowicz was traded to the Chicago Hounds for future considerations on Friday, Dec. 15

-Rockford defenseman Tom Zabkowicz was activated from the 10-Day IR on Thursday, Dec. 14

-Rockford winger Robin Big Snake was placed on 7-Day IR (retro 12/10) on Wednesday, Dec. 13

-Rockford defenseman Tom Zabkowicz was moved from 7- to 10-Day IR (original date 11/17) on Wednesday, Dec. 13

-Rockford winger Bruce Watson was moved from 10- to 21-Day IR (original date 11/11) on Wednesday, Dec. 13

Bacon Bits:

Goalie Brendan Cuthbert turned in his third career professional shutout on Saturday, making 16 saves in the Hogs 7-0 win over Bloomington.

Cuthbert had one shutout with Rockford last season against Muskegon, a 42-save performance in an 8-0 win over the Fury on April 9.

After scoring just 11 goals in seven games, Rockford lit the lamp a season-high seven times on Saturday.

In Saturday's 7-0 win, the IceHogs also scored a season-high four tallies in the third period.

In three games last week, the Hogs held its opponents to just 55 total shots on goal. An average of 18.3 shots per game.

In two games against Bloomington, Rockford allowed only 28 shots on goal last week. The Thunder never accumulated more than seven shots in a period.

Rockford now leads the league in shots on goal against, giving up just 29.28 shots per game.

Winger Chaz Johnson was tagged for an IceHogs single-game season-high 33 penalty minutes on Friday against Quad City.

Defenseman Dan Boeser tied a club record for most assists by a defenseman when he chipped in three helpers on Saturday. Boeser has six assists in his last six games.

After a stretch of just four penalty shots over a six-year period, the IceHogs have had three penalty shots through 25 games this season. The Hogs have been unsuccessful in all three attempts.

Hot Hog Week 10:

Defenseman Dan Boeser has been one of the anchors on the IceHogs stingy defense this season and Week 10 was no different Not only did Boeser help hold down the IceHogs opponents to just 55 shots on goal in three games last week, the d-man also chipped in with four assists including three on Saturday against Bloomington, tying a club record for most assists by a defenseman in a single game.

Upcoming Games:

Friday, Dec. 22 at Chicago Hounds. Game time is slated for 7:30 p.m. Rockford makes its first visit ever to the Sears Centre in Hoffman Estates to take on the Western Conference rival Hounds. The game is the first of six on the season between the two clubs in Chicago.

Saturday, Dec. 23 vs. Flint Generals. The puck drops at 7:05 p.m. Rockford returns home for a contest before Christmas and their first home meeting against the Generals. The first 1,000 fans to the game next Saturday will receive an IceHogs Santa Hat courtesy of the Rockford Park District.

The IceHogs Broadcasting Network:

Rockford IceHogs fans can catch all IceHogs Regular and Post Season games on Rockford's Voice, WNTA-AM 1330. Fans can also watch and listen to the Hogs on the World Wide Web with the B2 Networks! Log on to the IceHogs Web site (icehogs.com) and click on the "click here to watch the game live" icon, and for just $6 you can catch all of the IceHogs action on your computer. Once again this season, ESPN"ˆRadio "The Jock" 1380 AM will broadcast 20 Hogs games during the regular season. Check your local listings for game times and dates. Also, fans with Insight Cable television can tune in to Channel 57 for all the IceHogs hockey action this season. The broadcast begins with the Pregame Show 30 minutes before the puck drops. Make sure to give your opinion during the Post-Game Call-In Show following each home game at (815) 874-8255.

HogTalk Returns Tonight At Shooter's North:

Bud Light HogTalk returns this week to Shooter's North located at 7742 Forest Hills Road in Loves Park from 7-8 p.m. WXRX's Jim Stone and Double T host the weekly show and this week they will be joined by IceHogs skaters Frederic Cloutier and Nathan Lutz and IceHogs Head Coach Steve Martinson. Come sign up for prizes, meet some IceHogs players and chat Hogs hockey at Shooter's North!

The King's Table Cafe Offers Special Pregame Menu:

The King's Table Cafe, located at 308 West State St. in Stewert Square, is offering IceHogs fans Game Night specials. Fans that stop by The King's Table Cafe can take advantage of an All You Can Eat Chili Bar for $5.95 ($2.50 for kids), All You Can Eat"ˆHot Dog Bar for $5.95 ($2.50 for kids), All You Can Eat Taco Bar for $5.95 ($2.50 for kids) and "Mallard" Chicken Tender Night for just $5.95 ($2.50 for Kids). The King's Table Cafe is open before IceHogs games from 6-7:30 p.m. For more information, contact The King's Table Cafe at (815) 986-0874.

Week 11 Schedule

Friday, Dec. 22 at Chicago, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 23 vs. Flint, 7:05 p.m.

 

[truebluefan]

Mallards Began Four Game Home Stand on Wednesday

Moline, IL-The Mallards return to The MARK this week after going 3-1-0 on a recent four game road trip. Last Friday, Quad City beat Rockford 4-1 as Don Parsons scored his 599th and 600th career goals. On Saturday night, Port Huron snapped Quad City's seven-game unbeaten streak with a 5-2 win over the Mallards.

This week, Quad City begins a four game home stand with a Wednesday night match-up vs. Bloomington. On Friday, the Flint Generals visit The MARK for the first time this season. Saturday night, the Mallards host Fort Wayne.

Upcoming Promotions

Individual Tickets On-Sale NOW!

Individual tickets for Mallards home games are on sale now. Tickets are also available via phone at (563) 326-1111 or on-line at Official Ticketmaster site. Tickets for Concerts, Sports, Arts, Theater, Family, Events, more.

Phone Cards for Troops sponsored by Mel Foster, the Mallards and The MARK

Mel Foster, the Mallards and The MARK are collecting phone cards for distribution to U.S. troops serving domestically and overseas. To participate, bring a 90-minute (or more) phone card to the new Mallards Team Store at The MARK. Fans that participate will receive two Mallards tickets for the price of one. This promotion ends on Wednesday, December 20th.

Wednesday, December 20th vs. Bloomington

Mallards Carload Special

The Mallards are hosting a carload special during the team's December 20th game vs. Bloomington. For just $50 per vehicle, all fans packed into cars, buses or trucks will receive tickets to the game. Fans must use one of The MARK's parking facilities and parking is included in the admission fee. A portion of the proceeds from the Mallards Carload Special will go towards the purchase of phone cards for U.S. Military Personnel. For details or for large groups, please call the Mallards office (309-764-7825) in advance. In addition, every fan in attendance on December 20th will also be registered to win a pair of round trip airline tickets.

Friday, December 22nd vs. Flint

Casino Rock Island Christmas Hat Giveaway

The first 2,500 fans in attendance on December 22nd will receive Mallards stocking hats from Casino Rock Island.

Saturday, December 23rd vs. Fort Wayne

Swiss Valley Farms Cowbell Giveaway

On December 23rd, the first 1,500 fans that enter The MARK will receive cowbells courtesy of Swiss Valley Farms.

Upcoming Games

Wednesday, December 20th at Bloomington 7:00 p.m. at The MARK

The Mallards host Bloomington on Wednesday to kick off a four game home stand. Quad City is 2-0-1 this season vs. the PrairieThunder.

Friday, December 22nd at Flint 7:00 p.m. at The MARK

Quad City hosts the Flint Generals on Friday, it marks the first meeting of the year between the two teams.

Saturday, December 23rd at Fort Wayne 7:00 p.m. at The MARK

The Mallards continue their rivalry with Fort Wayne on Saturday. The division-leading Komets beat Quad City 3-2 in a shootout on November 3rd in the teams' only previous meeting at The MARK. The teams have split a pair of games in Fort Wayne this year. Overall, the Mallards are 1-1-1 vs. the Komets.

Individual Tickets

Individual Tickets On-Sale NOW!

Individual tickets for Mallards home games are on sale now. Tickets are also available via phone at (563) 326-1111 or on-line at Official Ticketmaster site. Tickets for Concerts, Sports, Arts, Theater, Family, Events, more.

Duck Talk on the Air

Duck Talk is on Fox Sports Radio AM 1230 tonight at 6:00 p.m. from the Blackbear Lounge at The Lodge. This week, Blake Stewart and David Herring join Mallards Head Coach Brian Curran and host Aaron Roof.

Last Week's Games

Friday, December 15th - Quad City 4 at Rockford 1

The Mallards beat the Hogs 4-1 on Friday in Rockford as Don Parsons netted the 600th goal of his professional career. Parsons recorded a pair of third period goals to join Joe Mullen and Joe Burton as the only American-born players in professional hockey history to net 600 goals. Brett Pilkington and Patrick Nadeau also scored while Jason Tapp turned aside 39 of the 40 shots he faced. The Hogs took a 1-0 lead on the first period's only goal by Mike Letizia. Letizia scored on a feed from Mike Doyle after the Rockford forward dug the puck off the wall behind the Mallards net. The goal was the only shot to elude Jason Tapp in a first period where the Mallards netminder faced 25 shots. In the second, the Mallards defense tightened as the team allowed just four shots on goal. The power play went to work as well and the Mallards claimed a 2-1 lead. At 2:31 of the period, Brett Pilkington sent a pass in front that deflected off an IceHog and into the Rockford net. The power-play goal was the ninth of the year for the rookie from Calgary, Alberta. The Mallards took a two-goal lead on another power-play goal at 11:47 of the second. Pilkington fed Patrick Nadeau from behind the Rockford net and the captain netted his third goal of the year to give the Mallards a 3-1 lead. In the third, Don Parsons netted a pair of goals to secure the win. The second marker of the third period for the Mallards forward was the 600th of his professional career. Parsons scored at even strength with 5:55 elapsed in the third. Then, he drove home a shot from the circle at 10:36 with the Mallards on a 5-on-3 power play to set the final at 4-1.

Saturday, December 16th - Quad City 2 at Port Huron 5

The Mallards seven-game unbeaten streak was snapped on Saturday night in Port Huron. The Flags went 3-7 on the man advantage to earn the win. Don Parsons and Nick Harloff scored the Mallards goals. The Flags took a 2-0 first period lead on power-play goals by Bobby Kukulka and Colt King. Port Huron extended their lead to 4-0 on second period tallies by Garrett Cameron and Mike Olynyk. The Mallards staged an early third period comeback on goals by Don Parsons and Nick Harloff. Parsons scored on a Mallards power play at 3:33 of the closing period. Harloff followed 52 seconds later as he blasted a point shot into the Port Huron net. The Mallards goal cut the Flag lead to 4-2, but Quad City could pull no closer. Steve Hildenbrand netted the final goal with 6:42 left to earn the win for the Flags.

Player of the Week

Don Parsons is the Mallards nominee for UHL Player of the Week. He recorded four points (two goals and two assists) in a 4-1 win over Rockford on Friday. Parsons netted his 16th goal of the year on Saturday vs. Port Huron.

Goalie of the Week

Jason Tapp is the Mallards nominee for UHL Goaltender of the Week. He stopped 39 shots in earning a win vs. Rockford on Friday. On Saturday night, he made 18 saves in a loss to Port Huron.