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Thursday, March 31, 2011

ROCKFORD EXTENDS WIN STREAK TO FIVE-STRAIGHT CONTESTS

FROM PRESS RELEASE -

Hogs wipe out Lake Erie’s eight game streak with a 3-2 win

Cleveland, Ohio- One streak had to go on and one had to end on Wednesday night. Fortunately for the Rockford IceHogs, it was their winning streak that continued as they topped the red hot Lake Erie Monsters 3-2 at the Quicken Loans in Cleveland.

The win for Rockford ended the Monsters franchise record eight-game winning streak while Rockford has now won a season best five straight tilts. Last time Rockford was in Lake Erie on March 5, they ended the Monsters franchise record eight-game home winning streak by a score of 3-2, the last lost for Lake Erie before Wednesday.

Rockford controlled the first six minutes of the game, but it was Lake Erie who grabbed the first goal. Julian Talbot snapped home his 12th goal of the season over the shoulder of Hannu Toivonen at 5:59 of the opening frame on Lake Erie’s first shot of the contest.

The Monsters goal didn’t slow Rockford’s momentum, however, as they tied the game at 16:23 of the first period. Defenseman Garnet Exelby picked up a Brandon Pirri pass and slapped his third goal of the season past Jason Bacashihua for his third goal of the campaign. Rob Klinkhammer also assisted on the goal to extend his point streak to seven straight games.

In the second period Lake Erie reclaimed the lead. With Rockford pinned in their own zone, Matt Ford deflected a Talbot shot over the shoulder of Toivonen for his 22nd goal of the season just 1:33 into the second frame.

With time winding down on a power play, Jeff Taffe would tie the game with a blast at 17:03 of the second stanza. Ben Smith helped Rockford hold the offensive zone and slid a pass down the left wall to Klinkhammer. Klinkhammer found Taffe in the slot and the winger hammered home his team-leading 26th goal of the season, making it 2-2.

The IceHogs claimed their first lead of the game 4:57 into the third period. Chris DiDomenico found Brian Connelly trailing a transition rush and the d-man cranked his ninth goal of the year past Bacashihua to put Rockford on top 3-2, the eventual game winner.

Toivonen extended his personal road point streak to six-straight games (4-0-1-1) making 23 saves , while Bacashihua made 24 saves in the lost.
Next Home Game: Friday, April 8 vs. Lake Erie Monsters: The puck drops at 7:05 p.m. Rockford returns home after a five-game, 12-day road swing to take on the Lake Erie Monsters for the sixth and final time this season. The IceHogs will be celebrating Hammy’s birthday with several area mascots as the team opens the final weekend of the 2010-11 season.

Former RiverHawk Dowdy in big-league exhibition

FROM PRESS RELEASE - LOVES PARK, Ill. – A former Rockford RiverHawk has turned up in a big-league box score.

Relief pitcher Justin Dowdy pitched for the San Francisco Giants in their 15-3 loss to Kansas City last Friday in a spring-training game Surprise, Ariz. Dowdy pitched a third of an inning and gave up run-scoring singles to the Royals’ Wilson Betemit and Mitch Maier.

Dowdy, who pitched for the RiverHawks in 2003-04, was a two-time Frontier League All-Star. Dowdy, who was drafted by the Chicago White Sox in 2001, is with his seventh major-league organization. He has also pitched for the San Diego, Seattle, Anaheim, Oakland and Tampa Bay organizations. Dowdy signed with the Rays late last season and was plucked off the Class AA Montgomery roster by the Giants in the minor-league phase of the Rule V draft.

The southpaw holds a unique distinction – he’s the only RiverHawk to be signed off the Rockford roster on two different occasions. He was signed by the Mariners at the 2003 all-star break and by the Angels at the break the following season.

Dowdy is believed to be the second former RiverHawk to play in a major-league exhibition. Jason Jamesplayed in one game for the Chicago Cubs last spring.

Dowdy is one of four former RiverHawks in affiliated camps this spring. Infielder Jake Eigsti is with the Royals, catcher Travis Scott with Pittsburgh and pitcher Taylor Sinclair is in Arizona’s minor-league camp.

The RiverHawks will play their 10th season this summer. Advertising and ticket information is available by calling (815) 885-2255. Fans can also visit www.rockfordriverhawks.com.

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

JIMMY HAYES SIGNS ATO WITH ROCKFORD

Rockford, Ill. - Chicago Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliations Mark Bernard announced on Tuesday that the American Hockey League's Rockford IceHogs have signed right wing Jimmy Hayes an amateur try-out agreement.

Additionally, rookie forward Chris DiDomenico has been reassigned by Chicago to Rockford and left wing Andy Bohmbach has been recalled by the IceHogs, both from the ECHL's Toledo Walleye. Also, winger Mike Hedden was signed to a professional try-out agreement by Rockford.

Hayes was drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the second round (#60 overall) in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft before being traded to Chicago in exchange for a second-round pick on June 26, 2010.

The Dorchester, Mass. native recently completed his junior season at Boston College (NCAA). The 21 year-old ranked second on the team with 21 goals and tied for third with 33 points. In three years with the Eagles, Hayes accumulated 81 points (42g-39a) in 117 contests.

DiDomenico, 21, has played in 20 games with Rockford during his first professional season and has an assist with six penalty minutes. The Woodbridge, Ont. native was originally drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in round six (#164 overall) in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft.  With Toledo, DiDomenico has 9g-16a-25pts and 31 PIM in 37 games played.

Bohmbach, 23, has skated in five games for the IceHogs in 2010-11, recording two assists and four shots on goal. The Hudson, Wisconsin native leads the Walleye with 68 points (25g-43a) in 62 games in his first professional season.

Hedden, 26, is fifth on the Walleye with 46 points (29g-17a) through 54 tilts. The Dunnville, Ont. native registered 18g-14a-32pts in 66 games with Toledo and notched an assist in three games with Grand Rapids in 2009-10.

The IceHogs begin a four-day, nine-day road trip on Wednesday in Lake Erie against the Monsters at 6 p.m.

Next Home Game: Friday, April 8 vs. Lake Erie Monsters: The puck drops at 7:05 p.m. Rockford returns home after a five-game, 12-day road swing to take on the Lake Erie Monsters for the sixth and final time this season. The IceHogs will be celebrating Hammy's birthday with several area mascots as the team opens the final weekend of the 2010-11 season.

RiverHawks acquire pitchers

FROM A PRESS RELEASE -

The Rockford RiverHawks baseball team announced on Monday that it has acquired right-handers T.R. Keating, Wade Morrison and Chris Krepline. Keating and Morrison were free agents; Krepline was picked up in a trade.

Keating is a former Baltimore farmhand. The Orioles drafted him out of the University of Northern Colorado in the 34th round in 2008. He split last year between the Class A Delmarva Shorebirds of the South Atlantic League and the short-season A Aberdeen IronBirds of the New York-Penn League. Keating combined for a 5-5 record and a 3.12 earned-run average and three saves in 26 relief appearances. He averaged more than a strikeout an inning, with a strikeout-to-walk ratio of 4-to-1.

Morrison spent last year in the American Association with the Grand Prairie AirHogs and Sioux City Explorers. He combined for an 0-1 record and a 6.58 ERA in eight appearances in his rookie season. At NCAA Division II Morningstar College, Morrison was a three-time all-Great Plains Athletic Conference selection and 2009 GPAC Pitcher of the Year.

Krepline was acquired from the Traverse City Beach Bums for pitcher Peter Woodworth. Each player signed with his now-former team over the winter. Kepline has no prior pro experience. Last spring, Krepline was 4-1 with a 6.75 ERA in 10 appearances with Carthage College.

The RiverHawks also released pitcher Jon Huizinga. Last year, Huizinga was 3-1 with a 3.64 ERA and two saves. He made 43 appearances to tie Adam Kroft's team record in that category.

The RiverHawks will play their 10th season this summer. Advertising and ticket information is available by calling (815) 885-2255. Fans can also visit www.rockfordriverhawks.com.

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Arenacross Rockford MetroCentre April 1-3

Rockford MetroCentre - The Scoop Arena

Arenacross
Rockford MetroCentre
April 1-3

First time back in Rockford since 2007! Catch bar to bar dirt bike racing as Tyler Bowers, Chad Johnson, Jeff Gibson and others battle it out in the final race before the Arenacross Championship. Filled with difficult challenges, amazing airtime, intense speed, and close-contact racing, Arenacross tracks are among the tightest in the world. See what happens when Arenacross comes to the MetroCentre and catch a special racing appearance by Pearl City’s Tom Hofmaster!

Kids tickets start at just $5.00!*


PLUS bring your Friday or Saturday Arenacross ticket stub to the Box Office to save $5 on tickets for Sunday’s Amateur Race Day, opening at 10:00AM! 

*Additional fees and charges may apply. 

Rockford MetroCentre | 300 Elm Street, Rockford IL 61101 | (815) 968-5600

KYLE HAGEL NAMED ROCKFORD'S 2010-11 IOA/AMERICAN SPECIALTY AHL MAN OF THE YEAR

FROM PRESS RELEASE -  KYLE HAGEL NAMED ROCKFORD'S 2010-11 IOA/AMERICAN SPECIALTY AHL MAN OF THE YEAR 

Rockford, Ill.-The Rockford IceHogs are proud to announce that Kyle Hagel has been named the team’s winner of the IOA/American Specialty AHL Man of the Year award for his outstanding contributions to the Rockford community during the 2010-11 season.

The highlight of Kyle’s commitment to the Rockford community was the “Stick To Reading Program” that he established at Kishwaukee Elementary School in Rockford.

Kyle made ties with Mrs. Nicole Adams, a fifth-grade teacher at Kishwaukee Elementary School, and set up the program that encouraged the students at the fourth and fifth grade levels to improve their reading habits.

"Kyle is probably the most determined man that I have ever met in my life,” said Mrs. Adams. “I think what’s really impressive to me through the whole thing is that he volunteered this. You know I wasn’t pushing for someone to come into my classroom. I was kind of teasing him and he said ‘no I’m really serious’.

“He explained about Hockey Players for Kids (HP4K) and how that’s a completely voluntary organization and how important it is for him to feel like he is giving back to his community, even though this is not his home.

“While he’s here playing for the IceHogs, this is his community. So he is determined to do as much as he can to impact Rockford and that’s remarkable. He was always very gracious with the kids"

Not only did Kyle organize the “Stick To Reading Program” on his own through HP4K, but he included several of his IceHogs teammates in the program and the players made several appearances at Kishwaukee Elementary School.

The program began with a kickoff assembly with the fourth and fifth grades and included Kyle and five other IceHogs players at the school to help motivate the kids.

Throughout the process, Kyle and his teammates made appearances at the school and capped the program with a floor hockey game featuring the winners of the “Stick To Reading Program” and nine other IceHogs players in front of both the fourth and fifth grade classes.

“We had a number of students who normally wouldn’t read get involved in the program and it definitely exceeded our expectations,” said Kishwaukee Elementary School Principle Al Gagliano.

Outside the schools, Kyle was always one of the first to volunteer for hospital visits or to help out at Jr. IceHogs Youth Hockey practices.

Hagel is now one of 30 finalists for the AHL’s 2010-11 Yanick Dupre Memorial Award, honoring the overall IOA/American Specialty AHL Man of the Year. The league award is named after the former Hershey Bears forward and AHL All-Star who died in 1997 following a 16-month battle with leukemia. The winner of the Yanick Dupre Memorial Award will be announced by the American Hockey League in the coming weeks.
Next Home Game: Friday, April 8 vs. Lake Erie Monsters: The puck drops at 7:05 p.m. Rockford returns home after a five-game, 12-day road swing to take on the Lake Erie Monsters for the sixth and final time this season. The IceHogs will be celebrating Hammy’s birthday with several area mascots as the team opens the final weekend of the 2010-11 season. 

Van Vleet, Teuscher, Posley, among All-State honorees

SEE THE ALL STATE SELECTIONS: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14335985

Warriors pound Pretzels - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

FREEPORT - The Freeport softball team knew it would have its hands full with a tough Sterling team on Monday in Freeport...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1608501158/Warriors-pound-Pretzels

RiverHawks seek host families

FROM PRESS RELEASE - RiverHawks seek host families

Loves Park, Ill. - The RiverHawks are seeking families interested in housing a player for the 2011 season. This unique experience will allow a family to get to know a player beyond the field and allow them the insight of the player's everyday life.

Players may be assigned housing as early as the first week of May. Pending the length of the postseason, players may be in homes as late as mid-September.

Host families can enjoy many benefits in exchange for providing room and board: up to four season tickets (depending on household size), a VIP parking pass, a discount card for purchases in the team store, and monthly picnics with the whole team, all exclusive to host families.

Many host families have developed relationships with players that have lasted long beyond the players' days in Rockford.

Families interested in the program should contact assistant general manager for baseball operations Todd Fulk at (815) 885-2255.

Opening Night for the RiverHawks' 10th season is 7:05 p.m. Thursday, May 26, when they host Schaumburg. Advertising and ticket information is available by calling (815) 885-2255. Fans can also visit www.rockfordriverhawks.com.


The Concert Comes To Rockford Speedway

IN CASE YOU MISSED THE NEWS THE FIRST TIME...

Music comes back to May! The Concert is a two-day event that features two types of music…country and rock, May 13th and 14th at Rockford Speedway!...

READ ABOUT IT AT: http://rockfordspeedway.com/node/437

Upcoming IceHog Away Games

Upcoming IceHog Away Games:

Wednesday, March 30 at Lake Erie Monsters: Face-off is set for 6 p.m. The IceHogs return to the Quicken Loans Arena for the third and final time this season to take on the Monsters. The game kicks off a nine-day road trip for Rockford that concludes on April 6. The game is the fifth of six overall on season between Rockford and Lake Erie.

Friday, April 1 at Oklahoma City Barons: Game starts at 7:05 p.m. Rockford makes their final stop in Oklahoma City to take on the Barons at the Cox Convention. The game is also the final of six on the campaign between the IceHogs and Barons in 2010-11. Rockford split their first two games in Oklahoma City New Year’s weekend.

Sunday, April 3 at Texas Stars: The puck gets on the ice at 5 p.m. The Hogs final road trip continues in Cedar Park, Texas against the Texas Stars. The contest is the sixth and final on the campaign between the two clubs and Rockford is 2-1-1-1 against Texas this season.

Monday, March 28, 2011

CDIDOMENICO RECALLED TO ROCKFORD

FROM PRESS RELEASE – CDIDOMENICO RECALLED TO ROCKFORD

Rockford, Ill.- Chicago Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliations Mark Bernard has announced that rookie forward Chris DiDomenico has been reassigned by the Blackhawks from the ECHL’s Toledo Walleye to the American Hockey League's Rockford IceHogs.

DiDomenico, 21, has played in 19 games with Rockford during his first professional season and has an assist with six penalty minutes. The Woodbridge, Ont. native was originally drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in round six (#164 overall) in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft.

Since joining Toldeo on Jan. 6, DiDomenico has 9g-16a-25pts and 31 PIM in 37 games played.

The winger was acquired by the Blackhawks on June 30, 2010 along with Victor Stalberg and Philippe Paradis from the Maple Leafs in exchange for Kris Versteeg and Bill Sweat.

8th Grade Lutheran Boys Take 2nd In National Tournament

WIFR - The Crusaders got to the Final Four of the Lutheran Basketball Association of America's Tournament...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/8th_Grade_Lutheran_Boys_Win_2nd_In_National_Tournament__118750454.html

ROCKFORD FORESTERS - ALLEGIANTAIR TO SPONSOR TWO NEW IN-GAME PROMOTIONS FOR 2011 SEASON

FROM PRESS RELEASE - ALLEGIANTAIR TO SPONSOR TWO NEW IN-GAME PROMOTIONS FOR 2011 SEASON

The Rockford Foresters are happy to announce two brand new promotions for the 2011 season, which are both sponsored by AllegiantAir. The Vegas Giant Dice Toss and the Orlando Beach Race, which will both take place between two different innings during the 2011 season at each regular season home game. The winner of each in-game promotion will be given two tickets to the last game of the season and their names will be entered into a drawing with other winners of each of the promotions. At the last game of the 2011 regular season, the Rockford Foresters will pull a winner for the Vegas Giant Dice Toss promotion and the Orlando Beach Race promotion. Each winner will win a pair of airline tickets on AllegiantAir where ever they fly to from the Chicago Rockford International Airport.

FUN BEGINS AT MARINELLI FIELD
Even though the Rockford Foresters' baseball season doesn't start until Friday, June 3, Marinelli Field has already begun hosting baseball games and tournaments. Last Friday, Winnebago High School played their first baseball game at Marinelli Field for their 2011 baseball season. Over three dozen baseball games and baseball tournaments will be played from now until Opening Day. Marinelli Field is open for business already and we couldn't be happier!

$30 = ROCKFORD FORESTERS HAT, T-SHIRT & TICKETS TO SIX DIFFERENT GAMES!

Did you know that the Rockford Foresters $30 game package is the best value for baseball in the Stateline? We have sold just over five dozen of these packages already and the sales have just begun. For $30 you get a Rockford Foresters hat with the secondary logo, your choice of any Rockford Foresters t-shirts, and a classic seat ticket to six different games (a $69 value!). The best part? YOU get to choose all six games you want to attend!

To order your $30 Rockford Foresters game package, email us at tickets@rockfordforesters.com or call the box office at (815) 312-2115.
REMEMBER, THE ROCKFORD FORESTERS 5K RUN IS COMING!

The 1st Annual Rockford Foresters 5k Run is less than five months away (Saturday, August 13). Click here for more information. I'm sure we won't stop talking about it until it actually happens.

FIRST 40 MINUTES CARRIES ROCKFORD OVER CHICAGO

FROM PRESS RELEASE - SUNDAY, MARCH 27, 2011

FIRST 40 MINUTES CARRIES ROCKFORD OVER CHICAGO

Rosemont, Ill.-There is no home-ice advantage anymore in the Rockford IceHogs-Chicago Wolves series. Rockford skated away with a 3-2 win at the Allstate Arena on Sunday and the road team has now won five of the nine games so far in 2010-11 after winning just six of the first 30 in the all-time series.

The win was a season-best fourth straight for the IceHogs, all coming in Week 25.

Rockford tallied first on Sunday while skating on the power play. Mathis Olimb followed up a Peter LeBlanc rebound and potted his eighth goal of the season past Edward Pasquale at 4:53 of the first period.

Moments after a Wolves power play expired, Chicago tied the game at 1-1. Jason Krog picked up a loose puck of the right boards and fed a pass across the IceHogs zone to Frederick Petterson who one-timed his tenth goal of the season past Alec Richards at 11:21.

Rockford outshot the Wolves 22-6 in the opening frame and would continue the shot barrage in the second period.

The IceHogs finally cracked Pasquale again midway through the stanza with a Ben Smith marker. The rookie winger blasted his 17th goal of the season five-hole on Pasquale at 10:18, set up by LeBlanc.

Then at 17:08, Rob Klinkhammer finished off a Jeff Taffe pass to extend the Rockford lead to 3-1. Pasquale got his blocker on the shot, but the puck settled behind the goal line for Klinkhammer’s 14th goal on the campaign.

Chicago reduced Rockford’s lead to 3-2 in the third period. Carl Klingberg picked up a Krog pass and backhanded his first goal of the season past Alec Richards at 13:38 of the final frame.

Rockford staved off the Wolves the rest of the way to pick up the win. Richards made 21 saves for the IceHogs while Pasquale blocked 38 of 40 IceHogs attempts.

Next Home Game: Friday, April 8 vs. Lake Erie Monsters: The puck drops at 7:05 p.m. Rockford returns home after a five-game, 12-day road swing to take on the Lake Erie Monsters for the sixth and final time this season. The IceHogs will be celebrating Hammy’s birthday with several area mascots as the team opens the final weekend of the 2010-11 season.

Next Home Game: Friday, April 8 vs. Lake Erie Monsters: The puck drops at 7:05 p.m. Rockford returns home after a five-game, 12-day road swing to take on the Lake Erie Monsters for the sixth and final time this season. The IceHogs will be celebrating Hammy’s birthday with several area mascots as the team opens the final weekend of the 2010-11 season.

Sunday, March 27, 2011

100% Of Ticket Sales On June 4th & 5th Going To Rockford Sharefest

PRESS RELEASE - The Rockford Foresters Baseball Team is happy to announce today that 100% of ticket sales from two Opening Weekend games will be donated to Rockford Sharefest.  The two games will be taking place on Saturday, June 4 at 6pm and Sunday, June 5 at 4pm.  All tickets purchased through the Rockford Foresters as well as through Rockford Sharefest will have 100% of the money going back to Sharefest.  As an added bonus, ALL tickets in the stadium will only be $5.

In addition to  this awesome partnership between Rockford Sharefest and the Rockford Foresters Baseball Team, all volunteers participating in Rockford Sharefest will get a voucher for a free ticket to a Rockford Foresters game at Historic Marinelli Field between July 8 - 10.

An official press release and announcement will be made later in the Spring.  Want to know more about Rockford Sharefest?  Click here.
VISIT THE ROCKFORD FORESTER WEB SITE: http://www.rockfordforesters.com/news/?article_id=107

Cards come back to beat Thunder - Freeport, IL

GERMAN VALLEY - In a game where both teams had clutch hit after clutch hit, it seemed fitting that the last two runs were scored with two outs.
The Forreston/Polo softball team scored two runs in the bottom of the eighth to come back and beat West Carroll 10-9 on a frigid day in German Valley on Saturday...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1608497823/Cards-come-back-to-beat-Thunder

Cubs Select Rockford Broadcaster As New P.A. Announcer - MyStateLine.com

CHICAGO --  The Chicago Cubs have picked Rockford River Hawks announcer Andrew Belleson as their new public address announcer...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=240466

Hogs Down Admirals - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Ill.- Stringing together their third-straight win at home the Rockford IceHogs finished off the Admirals 3-2 in overtime in front of 5,455 fans at the Rockford MetroCentre...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=240606

Saturday, March 26, 2011

Taffe's goal secures overtime win for IceHogs

Rockford, Ill.- In a game that saw everything from heavy hits to deficits erased, the Rockford IceHogs beat the Hamilton Bulldogs 4-3 on Friday night to win their third-straight home contest for the first time this season...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14325740

Joni Carlson Named Coach Of The Year - MyStateLine.com

ROCKFORD, IL -   Rockford Lutheran Coach Joni Carlson has been selected as the IBCA District Girls Class 1A/2A "Co-Coach of the Year" in District 10.  Coach Carlson will...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=240546

Friday, March 25, 2011

Vote for top RiverHawks second baseman

FROM PRESS RELEASE:

In celebration of its 10th season, the RiverHawks are offering fans the chance to decide who is the greatest player in team history at each position, from starting pitcher to shortstop to outfield. Votes can be cast at the team website, www.rockfordriverhawks.com.

Voting will switch to a new position approximately every 7-10 days. Winners will be announced at the end of each voting period and all will be acknowledged at a game this summer with an all-time RiverHawks poster, co-sponsored by Lou Bachrodt Chevrolet and The Hemmens, to be given out at a game to be announced.

The newest position is second base. The finalists, determined by a panel of longtime members of the organization, are:

Joe Anthonsen (2006-08) - Anthonsen hit .352 with a team-record 135 hits to win the 2008 Frontier League batting title. The leadoff hitter also scored a team-record 79 times that year. In the team's all-time records book, Anthonsen in third in runs (170) and steals (67) and fourth in hits (309). In 2007, Anthonsen's .974 fielding percentage led league second basemen.
Jake Eigsti (2010) - Eigsti hit .253 with a career-high 11 home runs and 52 RBI last year. He's just the second middle infielder in team history to reach double digits in home runs. Eigsti signed with the Kansas City Royals earlier this month.
Shaff Elkouri (2003-05) - Elkouri hit .300 in two of his three seasons and was a member of the 2004 pennant-winning club.
Doug Sanders (2009) - Sanders hit .289 in his only Rockford season. He was also among league leaders in fielding percentage, assists and errors.
Kiley Vaughn (2003-04) -Vaughn, another defensive wiz, had a .978 fielding percentage and committed just 11 errors while at second base in his two years with the RiverHawks. He led Frontier League second basemen in fielding percentage in 2003 and was an all-star at the position in 2004.

Players are eligible to be nominated at more than one position. Vaughn was also a finalist at shortstop.

The Hemmens Cultural Center is located in downtown Elgin. From contemporary music and theatre to shows for the whole family, The Hemmens features popular acts in an intimate setting.

Lou Bachrodt Chevrolet of Rockford is Winnebago County's premier Chevy dealer. Lou Bachrodt is located near Cherryvale Mall, just minutes from the stadium.

Voters can view a player's statistics online by clicking on the player's name at the poll.

Opening Night for the RiverHawk's 10th season is 7:05 p.m. Thursday, May 26, when they host Schaumburg. Advertising and ticket information is available by calling (815) 885-2255. Fans can also visitwww.rockfordriverhawks.com.

Big 8 Go 108 at Rockford, Entry Now Available | Rockford Speedway

Loves Park, IL- The 34th Spring Classic at Rockford Speedway will now feature a 108 lap Big 8 Late Model Series presented by Gandrud Chevrolet feature event on Sunday afternoon April 17. The Mid-American Stock Car Series shares the card with a 50 lap feature during the annual Midwest pavement opening event...

READ THE NEWS: http://rockfordspeedway.com/node/439

Pretzels open season with win - Freeport, IL

GALENA (JOURNAL STANDARD) — When you have skilled offensive players, a game can turn in a matter of minutes. Holding a slim 1-0 lead for the first 25 minutes Thursday of its first match of the season, the Freeport girls soccer team scored four goals...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1190294618/Pretzels-open-season-with-win

ICEHOGS TO BREAK ATTENDANCE RECORD THIS WEEKEND

Rockford, Ill. – Another promotion-packed weekend is on the slate for the Rockford IceHogs on Friday and Saturday at the Rockford MetroCentre.

The IceHogs open the weekend by hosting the Hamilton Bulldogs on Friday, March 25 at 7:05 p.m. The first 2,500 fans past the gates will receive an IceHogs gym bag courtesy of Kanga Roof, Members Alliance and Comcast.

Cylinder 6, a rock band from the Chicago area, will entertain fans before the game, during intermissions and briefly following the contest.

The Hogs will also honor the 15-time state champion Rockford Icemen with a ceremony before the game. The Icemen took their 15th straight championship with a 4-0 win against Waubonsie Valley in the finals of the AHAI/Blackhawk Cup High School Combined Varsity Division on Thursday, March 17.

On Saturday, the IceHogs close out their 10-game season-series with the Milwaukee Admirals. The puck drops at 7:05 p.m. The first 2,500 fans into the building will pick up an IceHogs dry erase board compliments of Rock Valley College, FOX 39 and BOB FM.

The IceHogs will also break their all-time attendance record on Saturday. The mark was set in 2009-10 when the IceHogs saw an average of 3,978 fans pass through the turnstiles each game, totaling 159,132 on the campaign. This season 153,539 fans have come out to the MetroCentre to cheer on the IceHogs with four home tilts remaining in the regular season.

For tickets to the game call (815) 968-5222, visit icehogs.com or stop by the MetroCentre Box Office open noon-5 p.m. Don’t forget to follow the Hogs on Facebook and Twitter (@goicehogs) for team news, special ticket offers and discounts.

SoBos’ Williams All-NUIC

SOUTH BELOIT (BELOIT DAILY NEWS) - South Beloit's Terrel Williams was a unanimous selection to the NUIC East All-Conference First Team...

READ THE STORY: http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/03/25/sports/local_sports/sports2402.txt

Lutheran girls basketball coach honored

ROCKFORD, IL - Rockford Lutheran Coach Joni Carlson has been selected as the IBCA District Girls Class 1A/2A "Co-Coach of the Year" in District 10...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14320606

Pretzels looking to contend again - Freeport, IL

Freeport, IL (JOURNAL STANDARD) — A talented group of seniors are gone from the Freeport girls soccer team. And while the Pretzels will miss players like Division I recruit Caitlin Greene, forward Hope Stayer, Dani Gordon, Jenny Wright and Tyra Maher, Freeport will have plenty of talent returning as it looks to be in the hunt for the NIC-10 title once again this season...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1777831251/Pretzels-looking-to-contend-again

Thursday, March 24, 2011

West named Division II Player of the Year - Freeport, IL

FROM THE JOURNAL STANDARD - The honors keep rolling in for Highland alum Parrish West. West was named the Ron Lenz Player of the Year for Division II after being selected to two different Division II All-America teams and being selected to play in the Division II all-star game...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1315190859/West-named-Division-II-Player-of-the-Year

Student Pricing Now Available at Rockford Speedway

Loves Park, IL- New for the 2011 season, student pricing will now be available during the majority of events at Rockford Speedway. The popular children pricing will remain for ages eleven and under, however ages twelve through seventeen will be granted access to the quarter mile paved high banked NASCAR Whelen All-American Series sanctioned oval at a student price...

GET THE DETAILS AT: http://rockfordspeedway.com/node/440

Athlete of the Week: Rockford Icemen's Jake Stima

ROCKFORD (WREX) – The Rockford Icemen's 2011 championship team featured one of their most experienced groups, with 11 seniors on the team, including Jake Stima...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14309187

ROCKFORD FORESTERS PROMOTIONS FOR 2011

PRESS RELEASE - The Rockford Foresters are happy to announce two brand new promotions for the 2011 season, which are both sponsored by AllegiantAir. The Vegas Giant Dice Toss and the Orlando Beach Race, which will both take place between two different innings during the 2011 season at each regular season home game. The winner of each in-gamepromotion will be given two tickets to the last game of the season and their names will be entered into a drawing with other winners of each of the promotions. At the last game of the 2011 regular season, the Rockford Foresters will pull a winner for the Vegas Giant Dice Toss promotion and the Orlando Beach Race promotion. Each winner will win a pair of airline tickets on AllegiantAir where ever they fly to from the Chicago Rockford International Airport.

VISIT THE SITE FOR DETAILS AND WHERE ALLEGIANT AIR FLYS TO: http://www.rockfordforesters.com/news/?article_id=106

Huskies hire Montgomery as new men's basketball coach

DEKALB (WREX) - Mark Montgomery spent the last ten seasons at Michigan State University under one of college basketball's finest...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14310393

Hogs Rip Rampage

Rockford, Ill.- Fans got their monies worth on the last Taco Bell Dollar Days as it was all Rockford IceHogs in their 5-1 win over the San Antonio Rampage on Wednesday night at the Rockford MetroCentre...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=239926

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

NIU Candidates Dwindling - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois-NIU could name its new men's basketball coach later this week.  But he most likely won't be their first, or even second choice...

See the story: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=239546

BMHS Knightingale’s Rhythm of the Knight Show Brings Saltare, MTV’s America’s Best Dance Crew Season 5, to Beloit

PRESS RELEASE: BMHS Knightingale's Rhythm of the Knight Show Brings Saltare, MTV's America's Best Dance Crew Season 5, to Beloit

Beloit, WI, March 22, 2011 -- On April 2nd, 2011, the Beloit Memorial High School Knightingale's will host their 2nd Annual "Rhythm of the Knight" Dance/Step Showcase in the Beloit Memorial Auditorium. The doors open at 6 PM and the show starts promptly at 7 PM. The show will feature dance teams from around the community, including the Boys and Girls Club Spirit Squad, Edison Middle School Flawless Dance Team, Stylez Unknown Crew Break Dancers, the Knightingale's Cheer Campers, and many more. In addition, the Greek fraternities and sororities from UW-Whitewater will bring their steps and strolls and of course the Knightingale Step Team. The show is being hosted by Shedrick Daniels, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. There will be a very special appearance by Saltare, a group from MTV's America's Best Dance Crew. Join us for a fun night of dancing and stepping for the entire family.

Saltare, a unique dance team was on Season 5 of America's Best Dance Crew. The group has six members from the USA Jump Rope All Star Team. They incorporate jump rope with dance to expose the sport they have participated in since childhood.

Tickets are on sale for $10 per person. Children six and under are only $5. Call 608-361-3197 for more information or tickets.

About The Knightingales:

The Knightingales are the cheerleaders and dance team during basketball season. They cheer for boy's games and dance at half time. The Step Team travels around the Midwest performing at community events and mentoring other girls in the principles of leadership, teamwork, and community service. They have worked extremely hard to bring a positive name to Beloit and are looking forward to their showcase. They fundraised upwards of thousands of dollars to sponsor this event.

Contact:

Michelle Hendrix-Nora, Educator

Knightingales Coach
Beloit Memorial High School
608-361-3197
mhendrix@sdb.k12.wi.us

##

Softball, baseball tournaments expected to generate $1.5 million

ROCKFORD (WREX) - Rockford will play host to 20 softball and baseball tournaments this summer, generating a much-needed boost for the local economy...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14305288

Rockford Foresters Announce New Merchandise

News from the The Rockford Foresters...

The Rockford Foresters are ordering new merchandise for 2011. Before we place our final order, we want to offer all the fans a special discount. Save 15% off of our normal prices on our new items by placing your order by April 29. If you are a season ticket holder, you get an additional 5%!

Click here and take an up close look at a few of the new items we will be carrying this upcoming 2011 season. New items include a premium pennant, a key ring, travel mug, lanyard and a car flag. Soon we should have the mock ups on the other new items we will be ordering for the 2011 season including two new hats and some new shirts.

In order to get this special offer, you must submit your order through tickets@rockfordforesters.com. The deadline is April 29 by the end of the day.
Visit http://stores.ebay.com/Scotty-Gear-Fraternity-Clothing/Rockford-Foresters-Baseball-/_i.html?_fsub=2088624014 to see the merchandise.

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Rockford Forester Casino Promotion

The Rockford Foresters are pleased to announce an exciting season-long promotion that gives you the opportunity to win a two-night stay at the Isle Casino Hotel in Bettendoft, Iowa (that's the Quad Cities for those who don't know).  In addition to the two-night stay, you will also get a $50 food credit at any of the Isle restaurant outlets as well as a $20 casino credit.  How do you win?

At every game for the Rockford Foresters in 2011, fans will receive an entry form that they will turn in at the customer service table.  One lucky fan each game will be selected to participate in a home run competition before the last regular season game.  The fan who hits a ball the farthest (doesn't have to be a home run) will win the package!



Visit the Forester web site: http://www.rockfordforesters.com/

Royal Lions tab Jones as new football coach

ROCKFORD (WREX) - Rockford Christian introduced Glynn Jones as the school's new head football coach at a meeting with parents Monday night...

http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14294786

Monday, March 21, 2011

Special Olympic Athletes Go For the Gold

ROCKFORD (MYSTATELINE.COM) - Young athletes from all over the Rockford area went for the gold in a completion for Special Olympics SUNDAY...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=238756

Coach Brian Benning makes "great progress" in rehab

FREEPORT (WREX)- About 400 people attend a gathering for Coach Brian Benning. Dakota's head basketball coach was badly injured in a car crash during February's major snow storm...

Read the story and see video: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14287820

Rockford Foresters 2-day Baseball Clinic

The Rockford Foresters are teaming up with Hard Knox and Tony Pigott to offer the 2011 Rockford Foresters 2-day Baseball Clinic.  The clinic will take place on June 14 & June 15 (9am until Noon) at Marinelli Field and will features Rockford Foresters players as well as Head Coach Rene Valdez.  This clinic will be held with a twist though.  In addition to normal baseball fundamentals, there will also be sliding instruction as well on one of the days.  Sliding instruction will be done on a wet tarp.

Players must bring a swim suit, an extra t-shirt, and a towel each day to camp in addition to everyday baseball gear.  Cost per player is $40.  Please contact Tony Pigott to get registered for this fun baseball event at (815) 703-2305 or email at tony@hardknoxbaseball.com

Late rally comes up short for IceHogs

Grand Rapids, Mich.- Bump up shifts after goals plagued the Rockford IceHogs on Sunday afternoon as the IceHogs felL..

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14287623

No Upset Here: Kansas Downs Illinois

TULSA, Okla. (AP) -- Twin brothers Marcus and Markieff Morris combined for 41 points and 24 rebounds, powering top-seeded Kansas past Illinois...

GET THE SCORE AND THE STORY AT: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/No_Upset_Here_Kansas_Downs_Illinois_73-5_118343059.html

Sunday, March 20, 2011

Pretz start season with sweep - Freeport, IL

Freeport, Ill. — One of the things Freeport softball coach Jeff Sands said the Pretzels were going to have to do better this season is come up with clutch hits when they need them most.

Read the story: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1161121129/Pretz-start-season-with-sweep

Foresters Announce Season Concessions



We have all of our concessions figured out for the 2011 season and we have some great new products coming into Marinelli Field!  Since today is National Potato Chip Day, we figured it was a great day to announce that we will be serving Vitner's Chips at the ballpark in a variety of flavors since they will be the "Official Potato Chip Company of the Rockford Foresters".  Vitners is actually made in Freeport, which was a great selling point to us, in addition of course to the taste and all the flavors they have.

Home Run Inn Pizza will be served at the stadium as the Official Pizza of the team, we will be serving Super Pretzels, Kelly Eisenberg Gourmet Beef Hot Dogs (Offical Hot Dog of the Team) and you will be able to purchase Bigs Sun Flower Seeds as well since they are the Official Sun Flower Seed of the Rockford Foresters.  Fan this season will also be able to enjoy other new options such as nachos, numerous ice cream options like SpongeBob SquarePants & Dora the Explorer, Swedish Fish & Sour Patch Kids, cotton candy, popcorn, and brats.

Visit the Forester web site for details: http://www.rockfordforesters.com/

Makarov leads IceHogs past Peoria

Rockford, Ill.- After a tame 40 minutes of hockey, the Rockford IceHogs offense tallied three times in the third period to sink the Peoria Rivermen 4-3 in front of a sellout crowd on Saturday night at the Rockford MetroCentre...

READ THES STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14285087

Gathering benefiting Benning to be held today SUNDAY - Freeport, IL

FREEPORT (JOURNAL STANDARD) - What started out as the Letters for Benning fundraiser has turned into an all-out gathering for Brian Benning this afternoon. "A Gathering for Brian Benning" will begin today (SUNDAY) at The Eagles Club from 2-5 p.m...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x713424319/Gathering-benefiting-Benning-to-be-held-today

Saturday, March 19, 2011

The Rockford Foresters Baseball Team ANNOUNCE “Senatorist Night”

The Rockford Foresters Baseball Team, a summer collegiate wood bat team in Rockford, announced this morning "Senatorist Night" where once missing Wisconsin State Senators are invited back to Rockford to once again be tourists on Saturday, July 16 at 6pm at historic Marinelli Field.

As part of Senatorist Night all 14 Wisconsin State Senators, who were once missing, will be invited to each throw out the first pitch at the Rockford Foresters baseball game.  Also part of the festivities, all fans with the first names of the missing Senators (see names below) will get in the game for free.  All union members (teachers, contractors, etc) will also get into the game for free if they present their union card.  Fans who's first or last name is Walker, will be asked to pay their "fair share" of the Senator's ticket prices, which is $86 ($6 average ticket price multiplied by 14 tickets) - not literally.

This is ONLY a promotion and we as the Rockford Foresters Baseball Team and anyone promoting this event is neither for or against unions or any other issue surrounding this situation.

"Hosting Senatorist Night on July 16 is a humorous way to invite the once missing Wisconsin State Senators back to Rockford, where most found themselves curious tourists in Rockford visiting such places as the Clock Tower Resort," said Majority Owner/President Joe Stefani, "this is only a promotion and nothing more.  These missing Senators at one point were tourists for a time being in Rockford."

READ THE REST OF THE STORY: http://www.rockfordforesters.com/news/?article_id=105

North Boone arena football teams falter in week 4

LOVES PARK – North Boone's three arena football teams brought a combined 5-2 record into week 4 of the season. When the March 12 games were over those Viking teams stood at 5-5. "We'll bounce back," head coach Ben Montemayor said afterward...

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6198:north-boone-arena-football-teams-falter-in-week-4&catid=120:boone-county-sports&Itemid=494

Hogs Hammered

Rockford, Ill.- The Oklahoma City Barons' offense erupted with a four-goal middle frame and that was good enough to knock off the Rockford IceHogs 5-1 on Friday night at the Rockford MetroCentre...

READ THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=238566

Benning Fundraiser ON SUNDAY

Freeport, Illinois-The public is invited to a gathering to support Dakota boys basketball coach Brian Benning and his family. The event will be held Sunday from 2pm to 5pm at The Eagles Club at 1200 West Galena Avenue in Freeport...

READ THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=238586

Basketball coach hurt in crash ready for rehab

ROCKFORD (WREX) - After more than six weeks in the hospital, Dakota's basketball coach moves to rehab...

http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14281086

Friday, March 18, 2011

Thursday, March 17, 2011

Hononegah boys win NIC-10 Indoor - WREX.com – Rockford’s News Leader

ROCKTON (WREX) - The Hononegah boys track and field team won six events and captured the 2011 Indoor Track Invitational Championships with ease Wednesday night...

Athlete of the Week: Jefferson's Steve Hartzell - WREX.com – Rockford’s News Leader

ROCKFORD (WREX) – A year after finishing runner-up for the NIC-10 track MVP, Jefferson's Steve Hartzell is starting an early push for the award this season...

READ THE STORY, SEE VIDEO: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14266292

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Rockford Foresters invite Wisconsin Senators back for baseball

ROCKFORD, IL – March 16, 2011 – The Rockford Foresters Baseball Team, a summer collegiate wood bat team in Rockford, announced this morning "Senatorist Night" where once missing Wisconsin State Senators are invited back to Rockford to once again be...

READ THE STORY AT: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14261157

Rockford Park District ready to go golfing

ROCKFORD (WREX) - The Rockford Park District is getting people ready to hit the links for the upcoming golf season...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14232927

Crowded NUIC-West should be competitive - Freeport, IL

FREEPORT - The NUIC-West was a one-team race last season. And while defending conference champion Eastland will have plenty of talent returning, the Cougars should have more competition for the conference title this season...

Read the story: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1707782663/Crowded-NUIC-West-should-be-competitive

Glenbard East ends Auburn's season - WREX.com – Rockford’s News Leader

DEKALB, IL (WREX) - The Auburn Knights fell 63-51 to Glenbard East in the class 4A super-sectional in DeKalb...

Read the story, see video: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14259834

Auburn to honor boys hoops, others at pep rally Wednesday

ROCKFORD (WREX) - The Auburn Knights basketball team will be part of a pep rally at the high school Wednesday...

Get the details at: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14259229

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Experienced Pretz looking for NIC-10 crown - Freeport, IL

Freeport, Ill. — The NIC-10 title slipped away from the Freeport softball team last season. Now with a year of experience playing in close conference games, the Pretzels are hoping to grab the NIC-10 crown from defending champion Hononegah...

Read the story: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x2011266940/Experienced-Pretz-looking-for-NIC-10-crown

Benning family files multi-million dollar lawsuit

ROCKFORD (WREX) -  The family of the Dakota basketball coach, seriously hurt in a car crash last month files a lawsuit in federal court in Rockford...

Read the story: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14251155

Icemen Reach Championship Game

Rockford, Illinois - The Rockford Icemen will play for a 15th straight state championship...

Auburn-Glenbard E. Preview

Rockford, Illinois - If you were born before 1975 you weren't around the last time an Auburn boys basketball team reached the elite 8 of the State Tournament...

Monday, March 14, 2011

Hogs Jersey Auction Raises $34,000 - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs hosted their 12th Annual Jersey Auction for charity on Sunday following their game against the Chicago Wolves. IceHogs fans helped the Hogs raise...

Read the story and see video at: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=236886

ROCKFORD FORESTERS ANNOUNCE SCHEDULE

The Foresters begin their 2011 season home schedule with a rematch of
the 2010 Championship Series against the Southland Vikings.  Official
Opening Day festivities will be conducted at the 7pm game on Friday,
June 3 and include the unveiling of the Championship Banner as well as
presentation of the league's Championship Trophy.
The 2011 home schedule features seven non-league games.  Per league
rules, the Rockford Foresters will play no non-league games after the
2011 season.
"This year's home schedule features a great mix of not only league
teams, but as well as non-league teams," said Majority Owner/President
Joe Stefani, "Because we are not able to play non-league games after
the 2011 season, we wanted to bring in a bunch of talented non-league
teams that have seen players get drafted by MLB and independent
baseball teams in the past."
2011 Rockford Foresters Home Schedule:
Friday, June 3 @ 11am & 7pm – Southland Vikings
Saturday, June 4 @ 6pm – Southland Vikings
Sunday, June 5 @ 4pm – Chicago Zephyrs
Tuesday, June 7 @ 7pm – Chicago Zephyrs
Wednesday, June 8 @ 7pm – Will County Crackerjacks
Monday, June 13 @ 7pm – Will County Crackerjacks
Friday, June 17 @ 7pm – Chicago Zephyrs
Saturday, June 18 @ 6pm – Will County Crackerjacks
Sunday, June 19 @ 4pm – Southland Vikings
Tuesday, June 21 @ 7pm – HardKnox*
Thursday, June 23 @ 7pm – Illinois Valley Knights*
Friday, June 24 @ 7pm – Bloomington Snipes*
Saturday, June 25 @ 6pm – Chicago Zephyrs
Sunday, June 26 @ 4pm – Chicago Zephyrs
Tuesday, July 5 @ 7pm – Chicago Wild Cats*
Wednesday, July 6 @ 7pm – Chicago Wild Cats*
Thursday, July 7 @ 7pm – Announcement April 1*
Friday, July 8 @ 11am & 7pm – Southland Vikings
Saturday, July 9 @ 6pm – Will County Crackerjacks
Sunday, July 10 @ 4pm – Chicago Zephyrs
Friday, July 15 @ 7pm – Will County Crackerjacks
Saturday, July 16 @ 6pm – Will County Crackerjacks
Sunday, July 17 @ 4pm – Will County Crackerjacks
Friday, July 22 @ 7pm – Will County Crackerjacks
Saturday, July 23 @ 4pm & 7:30pm – Hispanic Heritage Games*
Sunday, July 24 @ 4pm – Southland Vikings
*Denotes a non-league game

IceHogs fall 5-1 to Chicago

Rockford, Ill.- After seven-games and 14 days on the road, the Rockford IceHogs found themselves on the short end falling 5-1 to the Chicago Wolves at the Rockford MetroCentre in front of 5,642 fans...

Read the story: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14244067

Icemen Ready For Blackhawk Cup Semifinals

Rockford, Illinois - THE ROCKFORD ICEMEN CONTINUE ITS QUEST FOR A BLACKHAWK CUP CHAMPIONSHIP. THE CLUB BEAT UP ON CARY GROVE YESTERDAY IN QUARTERFINAL ACTION, AND NOW GET SET TO TAKE ON...

SEE THE VIDEO: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=236836

Sunday, March 13, 2011

East runs out of magic in sectional final

ROCK RIVER TIMES  - The East E-Rabs led by 7 at halftime of their IHSA Class 3A sectional in Woodstock. They even pushed the lead to 10 in the third quarter...

READ THE STORY AT: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/12/east-runs-out-of-magic-in-sectional-final/

Auburn defense squeezes Huntley out of sectionals | The Rock River Times

ALGONQUIN, Ill. – If there was any doubt about the statement the Auburn Knights were trying to make after outscoring Huntley 14-5 in the first quarter of their IHSA Class 4A sectional championship game, those doubts were erased in the second...

Read the story at: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/12/auburn-defense-squeezes-huntley-out-of-sectionals/

Rockford Christian Takes Third At State - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois - Rockford Christian capped off its dream season by beating Pittsfield to finish third in the 2A State Tournament...

Read the story at: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=236756

Saturday, March 12, 2011

Veasley OK after Japan earthquake - Freeport, IL

FREEPORT - According to a post made on his Facebook page, former Freeport basketball star Willie Veasley is safe in Japan after a series of Earthquakes rocked the country Thursday night and into Friday morning...

Read the story at: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1777804652/Veasley-OK-after-Japan-earthquake

Baseball over basketball for Martin

Freeport, Ill. — Zach Martin played his last basketball game on March 4. That wasn't the way he had originally planned it...

Read the story at: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x13270823/Baseball-over-basketball-for-Martin

Follow the Madness: Auburn wins, East bows out

Get the story, see all the brackets, and see video at: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14200258

Michigan's late rally knocks out Illinois 60-55 - WREX.com – Rockford’s News Leader

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - Darius Morris scored 8 of his 17 points in the final eight minutes Friday, leading Michigan back from a 9-point deficit to beat Illinois 60-55 in the Big Ten tournament quarterfinals...

Hales Franciscan ends Rockford Christian's season at state

PEORIA, Ill. (AP) -- Aaron Armstead scored 19 and Eddie Alcantara added 11 to lead Hales Franciscan to a 56-43 victory over Rockford Christian in the Class 2A semifinals at the IHSA Boys State Finals in Peoria...

Get the story and video at: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14237973

Friday, March 11, 2011

Park District won’t partner with school sports

ROCKFORD (ROCK RIVER TIMES) - Rockford Public School District 205 will now attempt to find a way to offer athletics at a lower cost for the 2011-12 school year after it was announced a proposed partnership between District 205 and the Rockford Park District will not happen...

READ THE STORY AT: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/10/park-district-won%e2%80%99t-take-over-school-sports/

Bronkema to be OK for Cardinals baseball season - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

FORRESTON (JOURNAL-STANDARD) - Forreston baseball coach Kyle Zick was relieved to find out Tanner Bronkema could still play in the basketball team's DeKalb Super-sectional game after injuring his knee in the third quarter against Newark...

http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x13267743/Bronkema-to-be-OK-for-Cardinals-baseball-season

Belvidere North boys fall in regular season finale, 79-74

ROCKFORD – It was déjà vu all over again for Belvidere North's boys varsity basketball as it lost the regular season finale to Rockford Guilford, 79-74...

READ THE COVERAGE AT: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6164:belvidere-north-boys-fall-in-regular-season-finale-79-74&catid=100:belvidere-north&Itemid=502

Auburn defense calms Storm on way to sectional win

ROCKFORD (ROCK RIVER TIMES) - A rarity this season for Auburn, the Knights entered their IHSA Class 4A sectional game against South Elgin with a big size advantage...

Read the article at: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/10/auburn-defense-calms-storm-on-way-to-sectional-win/

Rockford Christian Pep Rally

Rockford (WIFR) -- Rockford Christian held a pep rally for it's state bound boys basketball team.

SEE THE VIDEO AT: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/Rockford_Christian_Pep_Rally_117773243.html

Thursday, March 10, 2011

Nomination forms available for Belvidere Football Hall of Fame

BELVIDERE - Nominations are being accepted for the Belvidere Football Hall of Fame class of 2011. An Induction ceremony will be held during halftime of a home varsity football game next season...

Read the article and get more information on the nominating procedure at: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6149:nomination-forms-available-for-belvidere-football-hall-of-fame&catid=99:belvidere&Itemid=501

Foresters Announce 5k Run

The Rockford Foresters and Marinelli Field are hosting the 1st Annual Rockford Foresters 5k Run on Saturday, August 13 at 9am at historic Marinelli Field, which is home to the Rockford Foresters Baseball Team.  The race will begin on the outfield grass of Marinelli Field and conclude there as well.

Age Divisions:
19 & under
20 to 29
30 to 39
40 to 49
50 to 59
60 +

Awards:
Each overall male and female winner will receive a trophy and the top two finishers (male and female) for each age division will walk away from the race with metals.

Cost:
The cost for the 5k run is only $25 until Friday, July 29 and includes a t-shirt as well as a goodie bag.  After July 29, the fee is $30 and there is no guarantee of a t-shirt.  Day of race registration is available and is $30 (no shirt guarantee).

Visit http://www.rockfordforesters.com/news/?article_id=103 to register or for more information.

Cardinals cut down - Freeport, IL

DeKalb, Ill. — One big run had Forreston playing from behind for the entirety of the DeKalb Super-sectional against Newark on...

Read the story at: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x698035026/Cardinals-cut-down

Auburn reaches sectional final with win over South Elgin

ALGONQUIN (WREX) – Auburn opened up a 12-point halftime lead and beat South Elgin 60-46 in the semifinals of the class 4A Jacobs sectional Wednesday night...

READ THE STORY AND SEE VIDEO AT: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14222228

Local Students Get Heart Screening After Tragedy

ROCKFORD (MYSTATELINE.COM) - On the court, he shoots for big numbers. But outside of basketball, Ben Eckburg never wants to be a statistic. "Hopefully I'll get reassurance, and I'll be ok" says Eckburg...

READ THE STORY AT: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=236146

Athlete of the Week: Auburn's Anthony Strickland

ROCKFORD (WREX) – Auburn's Anthony Strickland has been known for his three-point shooting since joining the Knights as a sophomore, but in the last two season's...

Read the story and see the video: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14221650

Patton out at NIU

DeKALB, Ill. (AP) -- Northern Illinois coach Ricardo Patton will not be back for a fifth season with the Huskies...

Read the story at: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14221692

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Rockford Speedway releases 2011 schedule

ROCKFORD (WREX) - The 2011 racing season at the Rockford Speedway will kickoff on Saturday, April 9...

Read about the schedule at: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14203176

Calling all E-Rabs, past and present

ROCKFORD (WREX) - The East E-Rabs are going for a sectional championship Friday and they are trying to rally fans to "White Out" the gym...

See video and read the story at: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14216545

Royals Headed To State!

DeKalb, Illinois-Rockford Christian is State-bound in boys basketball for the first time in school history.  The Royals defeated Illinois Valley Central...

Read the news at: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=235766

East rebounds from deficit, advances to sectional finals

WOODSTOCK, Ill.—The clock wound down as the East E-Rabs trailed by a point in overtime. Alonte Holliday, who did most of his scoring in the second half and overtime, was trapped in the corner. He found one teammate, who found Deontray Austin, who got a shot off...

GET THE STORY AT: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/09/east-rebounds-from-deficit-advances-to-sectional-finals/

Rockford Christian and East move on, Forreston fallS

Watch the video and see bracket information at:  http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14200258

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Forreston prepped for Supers

Forreston, Ill. — While Forreston has not played its opponent in tonight's DeKalb Super-sectional before, that does not mean the Cardinal coaches are not familiar with Newark...

Read more at: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1512124956/Forreston-prepped-for-Supers

Benning Improving

Rockford, Illinois-Dakota boys basketball coach Brian Benning is making progress in his recovery from a near-fatal auto accident...

READ THE UPDATE AT: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=235316

Free Tickets To Unemployed In 2011

PRESS RELEASE - The Rockford Foresters have announced that a popular promotion from the 2010 season would be extended to the 2011 season and expanded.  On game days, fans that are unemployed can get two free tickets to a game simply by showing their Illinois Department of Employment Security paperwork and a valid ID.

"Offering unemployed workers in the Rockford area free tickets is the least we can do," said Majority Owner/President Joe Stefani.  "The Rockford Foresters will continue to run this promotion year-after-year until the unemployment lines in the area go away.  This isn't much, but it's the least we can do."

This years unemployment ticket offer is expanded from every Wednesday night game to every single game for the 2011 season in addition to giving unemployed workers two free tickets instead of just one during the 2010 season.

Visit the Forester website at: http://www.rockfordforesters.com/news/index.html?article_id=99

Lutheran 8th graders win state championship

ROCKFORD, IL - The Rockford Lutheran Crusader 8th grade boys basketball team won the Illinois Lutheran Sports Association State Basketball Championship...

READ THE STORY AT: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14207990

Four local teams still have state title hopes

See the brackets and some video at:  http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14200258

Monday, March 7, 2011

Big Northern Conference reveals girls all-conference team

STATELINE - The Big Northern Conference recently announced its 2010-11all-conference selections for girls basketball.

SEE THE LIST AT: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6121:big-northern-conference-reveals-girls-all-conference-team&catid=101:north-boone&Itemid=503

Magic Waters Making Big Splash With New Rides

CHERRY VALLEY (WIFR) -- A major local attraction is making improvements before swimsuitseason. Magic Waters is preparing for a brand new ride in 2012...

Read the story at: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Magic_Waters_Making_Big_Splash_With_New_Rides_117503089.html

Hornet Rules Released, Bandits to Run Wednesday Nights | Rockford Speedway

Hornet Rules Released, Bandits to Run Wednesday Nights, the rule are available at http://rockfordspeedway.com/node/434 as a downloadable PDF file.

Guilford Valkyries Splash Through The Decades

ROCKFORD - The syncronized swimming group performs in front of a
packed house at Guilford High School Saturday night...
See the video at:
http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/Guilford_Valkyries_Splash_Through_The_Decades_117472638.html

Weightlifters celebrate community - Freeport, IL

Freeport, Ill. (Journal Standard) — Weightlifting can be as much about competition as it can be about community. Friends and acquaintances serve as a source of inspiration and motivation to work harder and push each other to new goals...

Read the article: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1512121241/Weightlifters-celebrate-community

Sunday, March 6, 2011

RiverHawks add four pitchers

ROCKFORD - Roger Lincoln, Jon Huizinga, Mike McTamney and Jimmy Johnson will be returning for the 2011 season...

Get the rest of the story at: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14195790

Marinelli Field To Host 98 Events Over 86 Days

PRESS RELEASE (ROCKFORD FORESTERS) - The Rockford Foresters have announced that historic Marinelli Field will host a total of 98 events over 86 dates in 2011, which is a combination of events and Rockford Foresters' games.

Marinelli Field will see majority of its events being baseball related.  These baseball events include being the home field for the Winnebago High School baseball team, hosting high school baseball games for other high schools including Lena-Wislow, nearly four dozen days of youth baseball tournaments as well as Rockford Foresters baseball games.  Besides baseball, Marinelli Field will host the annual Cinco De Mayo Festival, as it has done in the past, in addition to one other special event that will be announced later this week.

"Hosting a large number of events was a goal of our group for 2011," said Majority Owner/President Joe Stefani.  "These events will give great exposure to Marinelli Field and it will show to people near and far that Marinelli Field is returning to the greatness it once had.  We feel that these events are a good starting point for the future in making Marinelli Field a destination for events nearly year-round."

A break down of the events below will show how Marinelli Field will be utilized.

Rockford Foresters Games: 30 games
High School Baseball Games: 18 games
Youth Baseball Tournaments: 45 days
Festivals/Large Events: 5 days

The Rockford Foresters do have some open dates for other events.  To get more information, please contact the Rockford Foresters main office at (815) 312-2115.

http://www.rockfordforesters.com/news/index.html?article_id=102

Game Of The Week: Auburn Beats Boylan, Wins Regional Title

WIFR - The Auburn Knights won their 2nd regional title in 3 season with 59 to 43 win over the Titans.

IceHogs earn weekend split with Lake Erie

Cleveland, Ohio- No overtime was needed on Saturday night as Hannu Toivonen and the Rockford IceHogs held on to knock off the Lake Erie Monster...

NIU Drops Regular Season Finale

MUNCIE, Ind. – The Northern Illinois men's basketball team fell 67-57 in its regular season finale at Ball State on Saturday afternoon. The Huskies fell behind by 10...

Read the coverage at: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=234876

East Edges North For First Regional Title Since 2000

Not quite breaking news, but worth repeating...

WIFR- The E-Rabs overcome a third quater defecit to win 67 to 63 over Belvidere North...

Strickland, Auburn run away with regional crown

ROCKFORD (ROCK RIVER TIMES) - The Boylan Titans had made their move in the chess match and cut their 9-point halftime deficit down to 3. Auburn countered and moved the lead back to 8, but Boylan had a chance to cut the lead before the third quarter ended...

Read the story: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/05/strickland-auburn-run-away-with-regional-crown/

Saturday, March 5, 2011

DENTAL DIMENSIONS NAMED TEAM DENTIST OF THE FORESTERS

ROCKFORD, IL March 2, 2011– The Rockford Foresters Baseball Club officially announced today that Dr. Kris Tumilowicz/Dental Dimensions is the Official Team Dentist of the team for the 2011 season.  During the team's 2010 campaign, Dental Dimensions was also the Official Team Dentist...

Read the story at: http://www.rockfordforesters.com/news/index.html?article_id=20

Late free throws send Forreston past Aquin

FREEPORT, IL (WREX) - The third edition of Forreston and Freeport Aquin lived up to its billing Friday night at Highland Community College...

See the video at: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14192462

Area coaches come together for Coach Benning after his accident

LENA (WREX) - Friends and colleagues of Dakota's Head Basketball Coach Brian Benning come together to support him through his recovery. Benning was seriously hurt after in a car crash...

SEE VIDEO AT: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14192340

Knights hold off Boylan for regional crown

ROCKFORD (WREX) - Auburn built a nine-point halftime lead and held off a third quarter charge by Boylan to win the class 4A Jefferson regional...

See the video and the story at: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14192404

Friday, March 4, 2011

Local TV Rockford Weather Blogs Are Great Resources

COMMENTARY - The local Rockford TV stations offer very useful weather blogs, maps, and other information. The information at these sites is great when planning your weekend, a family outing, or how to dress for an outdoor sporting event.

Visit: http://www.rockfordweathernews.com to find links to the Rockford TV stations' weather blogs, news sites and closing information.

E-Rabs, Blue Thunder prepare to face off in regionals; Boylan advances

ROCK RIVER TIMES - Freeport hits five threes in the first quarter and Luke Norman scored 33 points in trying to single-handedly carry his Pretzels into the IHSA Class 3A regional finals...

Read the story: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/03/e-rabs-blue-thunder-prepare-to-face-off-in-regionals-boylan-advances/

Athlete of the Week: Freeport Aquin's Zach Martin

FREEPORT (WREX) – Zach Martin's performance against South Beloit Saturday ranks among the best in Freeport Aquin history...

See video and read the story at: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14175697

Boylan knocks out Hononegah

ROCKFORD (WREX) - Boylan saw an 11 point fourth quarter lead slip away, but the Titans were clutch at the free throw line down the stretch and held on...

Video and story at: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14177190

Highland survives against Malcolm X

Dixon, Ill. — The Highland men's basketball team twice built seemingly secure leads in the Region IV semifinals on Wednesday at Sauk Valley. And twice Malcolm X fought back and made it a game again...

Read the story at: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x868514506/Highland-survives-against-Malcolm-X

Thursday, March 3, 2011

Arena style youth football returns for brief run

LOVES PARK – They love their arena football whether it's at the professional level or being played by current and future high school athletes...

Get the full story at: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6114:arena-style-youth-football-returns-for-brief-run-&catid=116:youth-sports&Itemid=522

Icemen Ready For Cup Play

Rockford, Illinois-It's playoff time for the Rockford Icemen.  They were supposed to open up Blackhawk Cup State Tournament action Thursday against Joliet Catholic, but Joliet Catholic has forfeited...

Read the story at: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=234226

Belvidere North and East to meet in regional final

BELVIDERE, IL (WREX) - East adjusted well to the role of regional favorites, winning...

Read the story and see the score at: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14177035

Rockford Christian outlasts Byron 53-50

GENOA, IL (WREX) - Rockford Christian won a hotly contested sectional semifinal...

See the score and more at: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14177049

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Thunder girls blowout Bucs in first-round Regional action

BELVIDERE- Belvidere North moved to the regional championship game after defeating city rivals Belvidere in the first round of postseason play...

Read the story at: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6108:thunder-girls-blowout-bucs-in-first-round-regional-action&catid=100:belvidere-north&Itemid=502

Aquin, Genoa-Kingston move on at sectionals

FREEPORT (WREX) – Freeport Aquin overcame a two-point halftime deficit and knocked off Indian Creek 47-43 in Tuesday night's 2A sectional semifinal...

Get the story, see photos, and more at: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14168222

River Ridge/Scales Mound Finishes As State Runner Up

NORMAL, Ill. (AP) -- Tiffany King scored nine of her team-high 11 points after halftime, leading the Winchester West Central Cougars to the Girls Class 1A state championship with a 29-26 victory against Hanover River Ridge-Scales Mound...

Read the story: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/River_Ridge_Finishes_As_State_Runner_Up__116989643.html

Bronkema comes up big

Forreston, Ill. — Forreston forward Tanner Bronkema knew in the final two minutes of the fourth quarter that he had to step up...

Get the details at: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1365678917/Bronkema-comes-up-big

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Softball Registration at Ken-Rock Community Center

Ken-Rock Softball Registration Information

- Registrations -Tuesday March 15 6-8 pm,Thursday March 17 6-8 pm,Saturday March 19 10-noon
- Ages 4 - 16 Years old
- Practice begins week of April 25th
- Season begins in June and runs through July
- Fee is $ 85.00 which includes shirt, cap, and award. T-BALL IS $50.00
- Age is determined as of August 1. Age is determined as of March 1 for 4 year olds.
- For more information email Gregg W. at greggw@kenrock.org

More registration information at: http://www.kenrock.org/team_sports_programs.html

IceHogs forward Potulny sent to Ottawa

Chicago, Ill.- The Chicago Blackhawks have acquired defenseman Chris Campoli and a conditional seventh-round draft pick from the Ottawa Senators in exchange for forward Ryan Potulny and a conditional second-round draft pick...

Read the story at: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14159847

Harlem and Boylan advance at Jefferson

ROCKFORD (WREX) - Harlem held off Jefferson while Boylan eased past Guilford in quarterfinals action at the class 4A Jefferson regional Monday night...

Read the story at: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14159823

Chicago Bears release Tommie Harris, Hunter Hillenmeyer

LAKE FOREST, Ill. (AP) -- The Chicago Bears have released veteran defensive tackle Tommie Harris, a three-time Pro Bowl pick who had struggled in recent years because of injuries...

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