Huskies Sign Henley - MyStateLine.com

DEKALB, Ill. -- Northern Illinois men's basketball head coach Mark Montgomery announced on Friday the signing of Andre Henley to a national letter of intent. The 6-foot-6 wing from Chicago De La Salle Institute becomes NIU's sixth signee for the upcoming season...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=248417

Broncos stave off Indians rally to win - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

Dakota, Ill. — Most baseball games in the area would be considered over with a five-run advantage heading into the bottom of the seventh and final inning. So much for that Friday evening...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x482560841/Broncos-stave-off-Indians-rally-to-win

Pretzels bite Titans - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

Freeport, Ill. — Freeport jumped out to a 4-0 lead against conference leader Boylan on Friday. But in the sixth inning, the Pretzels found themselves in an all too familiar place. "We've been having just a big inning in games were we fall apart," Freeport coach Jeff Sands said. "Today you saw it coming on a little bit in the sixth inning, and I had to call a couple of timeouts. But this time, the girls stayed with it and got out of there." Freeport held off a late Boylan rally to earn a 4-3 home win one day after taking its third conference loss against Harlem. The Pretzels said handing Boylan (11-7, 5-1 NIC-10) its first conference loss is the confidence booster they need after a disappointing start to the season.

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x602919180/Pretzels-bite-Titans

Snappers win 3rd straight - Beloit Daily News

Everything seems to be working for the Beloit Snappers. For the third straight game, the Snappers got another quality start from one of their pitchers. And for the third straight contest, it was another hitter in the lineup carrying the load and coming up with some clutch hits. The Snappers picked up their season-high fourth straight win with a convincing 7-2 rout over the Peoria Chiefs Friday night at Pohlman Field...

READ THE STORY: http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/04/30/sports/local_sports/sports3004.txt

Looking Ahead To 2011-12 - icehogs.com: Blog Hogs

Now that the offseason is officially here for the Chicago Blackhawks organization, let's look ahead to 2011-12, specifically for the Rockford IceHogs...

READ THE POST: http://www.icehogs.com/news/blog/index.html?entry_id=349

Forresters Sign Wimberly - MyStateLine.com

ROCKFORD, IL – April 29, 2011 – The Rockford Foresters Baseball Team announced today the signing of Guilford graduate pitcher Cyrus Wimberly.  The roster, which was full earlier this month, had a spot open up due to an injury...

READ THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=248337

Freeport softball struggles against Harlem - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

Freeport, Ill. — The Pretzel girls struggled with their gloves, falling to Harlem 12-6.
"That's a team we should have beaten tonight," Freeport coach Jeff Sands said. "You can't give up the runs we did on defense, six runs should win a ballgame."...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x634516809/Freeport-softball-struggles-against-Harlem

Rockton, Roscoe and South Beloit Hometown Night May 7 | Rockford Speedway

Rockford Speedway is helping your money stay in your pocket as it presents the NASCAR Hometown Nights promotion for Northern Winnebago County. Residents of Roscoe, Rockton, and South Beloit have been selected to receive 2 for 1 admission to the racing action on Saturday May 7, 2011. Spectators just need to show proof of residency within one of the selected municipalities and keep their money in their pocket!...

READ THE STORY: http://rockfordspeedway.com/node/455

State Fishing Event Postponed - MyStateLine.com

Bloomington, IL. -- The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) announced on Thursday, April 28 that the 2011 IHSA Bass Fishing State Final Tournament, scheduled for Friday and Saturday, May 6-7 at Carlyle Lake in Carlyle, has been postponed due to dangerous water levels and will be rescheduled to unfold in Carlyle in May or June...

READ THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=248167

Big Day For Bennings - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois-Dakota senior basketball player Kyle Benning signed a letter of intent with Highland Community College in Freeport Thursday afternoon. Benning has been one of the top players in the Northwest UpState Illini Conference and the leading scorer for Dakota the last three years...

READ THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=248177

Rockford to host boxing championships - WREX.com

ROCKFORD (WREX) - Some of the best youth boxers in Illinois set their sights on Rockford. The Patriot's Boxing Club is hosting the Illinois State Junior Boxing Olympics on May 7 and 8...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14536735

Pretzels give Huskies extra outs - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

Freeport, Ill. — It started rough for the Pretzels from the first batter of the game and it continued to be rough in an 11-2 loss to Harlem on Thursday.
The Pretzels struggled to get off the field as the Huskies took advantage of Freeport mistakes...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1061069613/Pretzels-give-Huskies-extra-outs

Beloit Snappers’ attack kicks into gear

Beloit starts fast with six runs in first to sting Bees. The Beloit Snappers' pitching staff has carried the load for most of the season...

READ THE STORY: http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/04/28/sports/local_sports/sports2802.txt

Revolution Synchronized Skating

Revolution synchronized skating team captures gold medals...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/Revolution_Synchronized_Skating_120940819.html

Belvidere North suffers soccer shutout to Boylan

BELVIDERE - Belvidere North varsity girls soccer fell to the Boylan Titans by a score of 3-0. North played a pretty solid defensive game until the last five minutes of the second half when they conceded two goals to the Titans in rapid succession...

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6440:belvidere-north-suffers-soccer-shutout-to-boylan&catid=100:belvidere-north&Itemid=502

AREA ROUNDUP: Harris fans 14 in two-hit shutout - Freeport, IL

Lanark, Ill. — Marissa Harris pitched a gem for Eastland on Wednesday after throwing a two-hit, 14-strikeout shutout against Pearl City for a 7-0 win...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x401817560/AREA-ROUNDUP-Harris-fans-14-in-two-hit-shutout

Belvidere offense too much for Guilford in 14-4 win

ROCKFORD – Belvidere used a big second inning to cruise to a 14-4 softball win over Guilford. The Lady Bucs put eight runs on the board in the top of the second inning. The Belvidere offense was led by senior Paige Clark who went 3-for-5.  Kylee Bear, Teagan Toft, Kalene Abraham, Amanda Gacioch  and Alma Leonardo all added two hits each...

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6439:belvidere-offense-too-much-for-guilford-in-14-4-win&catid=99:belvidere&Itemid=501

Athlete of the Week: Auburn's Branden Metzler - WREX.com

ROCKFORD, IL (WREX) - Branden Metzler has excelled in the role of number one singles player for the Auburn Knights tennis team this season going 13-1 and capturing the Jefferson Invitational Title this past weekend...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14528703

RVC's Morris Signs - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois-Rock Valley College sophomore Cierra Morris has signed with Southeastern Louisianna University, an NCAA Division I school in Hammond, Louisiana.

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=248107

Polo/Forreston co-op succeeding this season - Freeport, IL

Forreston, Ill. — How can the best get better? How about adding more talent to an already talented roster? That's exactly what the Polo boys track and field team has done as the Marcos are co-opting with Forreston...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1859066961/Polo-Forreston-co-op-succeeding-well

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

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

The Rockford Foresters Baseball Team is happy to announce 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 6 pm and Sunday, June 5 at 4 pm.  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.

READ THE PRESS RELEASE: http://www.rockfordforesters.com/news/?article_id=107

Weight classes changed in high school wrestling - WREX.com

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (April 26, 2011) — The most significant changes in weight classes in high school wrestling in 23 years will take place in the 2011-12 season.

In its April 4-6 meeting in Indianapolis, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Wrestling Rules Committee approved an upward shift of the weight classes, beginning with the 103-pound class moving to 106 pounds, which resulted in new weights for 10 of the 14 classes. The changes in weight classes, along with 17 other rules revisions, were subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.

The 14 weight classes approved by the committee for 2011-12 are as follows: 106 (pounds), 113, 120, 126, 132, 138, 145, 152, 160, 170, 182, 195, 220 and 285. Three middle weight classes – 145, 152 and 160 – were retained, although they are 7-8-9 in order now rather than 8-9-10. The largest weight class (285 pounds) remains unchanged as well...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14525794

ROCKFORD FORESTER SINGLE GAME TICKETS STARTING ON MONDAY, MAY 2

FROM THE ROCKFORD FORESTER BASEBALL TEAM...

BUY SINGLE GAME TICKETS STARTING ON MONDAY, MAY 2
This year we are trying to add some new things to the whole Foresters experience. One feature we are adding this year is the ability to purchase single game tickets online. Starting May 2, fans will be able to purchase single game tickets online through our web site. There will be a $1 service fee for each ticket bought online.

If you don't want to pay the $1 service fee, you can go ahead and call into the Foresters' office at (815) 312-2115 starting Monday, May 2.

Belvidere North comes out on top in cross-town softball

BELVIDERE - Belvidere North softball came away with a big 8-3 win when they faced cross-town rival the Belvidere Bucs. The game started with a defensive battle, but in the later innings both teams went on a roll and the runs started to come, before North got the deserved win...

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6432:belvidere-north-comes-out-on-top-in-cross-town-softball&catid=100:belvidere-north&Itemid=502

Strong pitching performance helps Bucs nab win

ROCKFORD – Belvidere was able to get behind a strong pitching performance to notch a 2-1 win against Guilford...

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6436:strong-pitching-performance-helps-bucs-nab-win&catid=99:belvidere&Itemid=501

Belvidere North girls soccer team continues winning ways

ROCKFORD – Belvidere North's girls soccer team continued its successful season with 8-0 shutout win against Rockford East...

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6435:belvidere-north-girls-soccer-team-continues-winning-ways&catid=100:belvidere-north&Itemid=502

Fishing Tournament Coming To Rockford - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois-The Rockford Region catches a whopper of a
tournament; the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau announced
today the community will host a Cabela's King Kat Fishing
Tournament...
SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=247727

RiverHawks Signings - MyStateLine.com

LOVES PARK, Ill. – The Rockford RiverHawks have signed two more players, and one is a familiar name...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=247717

Bulls Eliminate Pacers - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois-Derrick Rose's ankle looks fine, and so do the Bulls.  They advance to the second round of the NBA playoffs Tuesday night by defeating the Pacers 116-89 at the United Center...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=247777

Bees soak Snappers to start series - BELOIT DAILY NEWS

The Beloit Snappers returned home and found the hottest team in the Midwest League sitting on their doorstep. The Burlington Bees proved to be unwelcome guests to Pohlman Field, cranking out a 7-3 victory over the Snappers on a wet and soggy Monday night...

READ THE STORY: http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/04/26/sports/local_sports/sports2602.txt

HHS boys track team sweeps triangular meet

ROCKTON — Coming off Saturday's victory in the 23rd annual Hononegah Relays, a triangular with Harlem and Rockford Guilford didn't offer much competition for the host Hononegah Indians Monday...

READ THE STORY: http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/04/26/sports/local_sports/sports2603.txt

Icemen Honored - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois-The Rockford Icemen's string of 15 straight State Championships is a remarkable achievement...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=247737

Blackhawks Lose Thriller in Overtime

A late third period Blackhawk goal sent game 7 with Vancouver into overtime, but Vancouver prevailed early in the overtime period. Final score Vancouver 2, Blackhawks 1.

Rockford Speedway 2011 Season Opener Photos | Rockford Speedway

Alex Papini saved the best for last, closing out a fast-paced evening with a slam bang door-to-door finish in the 20-lap Mtn Dew RoadRunners and leaving fans roaring their approval after Papini prevailed by a yard...

SEE THE PHOTOS: http://rockfordspeedway.com/node/454

Local figure skaters earn national medals - WREX.com

Two local figure skaters earned medals at the 2011 U.S. Adult Figure Skating Championships held April 12-16 in Salt Lake City, Utah...

READ THE ARTICLE: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14514639

Blackhawks' Bickell out 6-8 weeks - WREX.com

UNDATED (WREX) – Chicago Blackhawks forward Bryan Bickell underwent surgery Monday to repair a lacerated tendon in his wrist and did not accompany the team to Vancouver...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14511878

Rockford Public Schools Consider More Cuts to Athletics - MyStateLine.com

Rockford -- The Rockford School Board has made their way from a $50 million dollar budget... to just $9 million dollars.  But now there's a new plan to cut athletic programs to fill the gap...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=247507

Three Bullets and One Thousand Dollars on the Line at Rockford | Rockford Speedway

Loves Park, IL- Former Sportsman Champion Fred Nason has announced the formation of the "Nason's Landscaping Fastest Bullet Award" for the 2011 NASCAR Whelen All-American Series season at Rockford Speedway. The driver earning the most fast qualifying times throughout the season will receive a vintage, hand painted artillery shell as well as a cash bonus at year's end...

http://rockfordspeedway.com/node/452

NIU baseball takes over first in MAC West - WREX.com

DeKALB, Ill. – With help from a Ball State win over Central Michigan, Northern Illinois took over first place in the Mid-American Conference West Division after hanging on late for an 8-7 win over Toledo on Easter Sunday afternoon at Ralph McKinzie Field...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14505314

Rubeck dominates season opener at Rockford Speedway - WREX.com

LOVES PARK, Ill. – Someone needs to let Steve Rubeck know that it's only April. The talented hotshoe was in midseason form Saturday during the Rockford Speedway's historic 64th season opener...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14505312

NIU golf 4th at Boilermaker Invitational - WREX.com

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – The Northern Illinois men's golf team finished its final round the way the Huskies started, in fourth place, at Purdue's Boilermaker Invitational...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14505322

Blackhawks force game 7 with Vancouver - WREX.com

CHICAGO (AP) -- Ben Smith scored on a rebound at 15:30 of overtime and the defending Stanley Cup champion Chicago Blackhawks beat the Vancouver Canucks 4-3 on Sunday night to force a seventh game in the opening-round series...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14505682

Dakota makes key plays in win over Le-Win - Freeport, IL

Lena, Ill. — For every Lena-Winslow punch, Dakota had an answer. The Indian baseball team had timely hits and made timely pitches to beat the Panthers 11-6 on Saturday.

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1146473442/Dakota-makes-key-plays-in-win-over-Le-Win

Harris leads Cougars to top of NUIC-West - Freeport, IL

Lanark, Ill. — Eastland pitcher Marissa Harris admitted she was feeling a little under the weather heading into Thursday night's NUIC-West showdown with West Carroll...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1274367480/Harris-leads-Cougars-to-top-of-NUIC-West

Rothschadl battles for Le-Win - Freeport, IL

Lena, Ill. — If there was anything Tom Smargiassi was pleased with after Thursday's 6-5 loss in eight innings to Eastland, it was Panthers pitcher Tommy Rothschadl's ability to recuperate after a rough start...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1146472827/Rothschadl-battles-for-Le-Win

Rockford Speedway NASCAR Hometown Nights Announced | Rockford Speedway

Loves Park, IL- Rockford Speedway is bringing back a fan favorite to provide affordable family fun. NASCAR Hometown Nights makes its return to the action packed high banks of Rockford Speedway for the 2011 NASCAR Season. Throughout the 2011 season, residents of neighboring townships will receive 2 for 1 admission on specified nights. Fans should keep their eyes open for the NASCAR Hometown Nights posters to be placed throughout their town...

READ THE NEWS: http://rockfordspeedway.com/node/451

Sectional Fishing - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois-The fish weren't biting, but three local high school teams were still smiling Friday after finishing in the top three spots at the Sectional Bass Fishing Tournament...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=247057

Knights Lose To Dayton - MyStateLine.com

Loves Park, Illinois-Rockford's new indoor football team the Chicago Knights lost Friday night in CIFL action to the Dayton Silverbacks 24-21...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=247067

NIU's Butler will miss 2011 season after shooting - WREX.com

DeKALB, Ill. (AP) -- A Northern Illinois linebacker who was wounded in a drive-by shooting earlier this month says he faces a lengthy recovery and will not play in 2011...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14500171

NIU makes $50,000 profit from Humanitarian Bowl

DEKALB, Ill. (AP) -- Northern Illinois University athletic director Jeff Compher says the school made a profit of just more than $50,000 from its Humanitarian Bowl victory...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/NIU_makes_50000_profit_from_Humanitarian_Bowl_120311234.html

Belvidere rebounds to win first conference game

BELVIDERE – What a difference 24 hours can make. The afternoon of April 13 was a gorgeous day with Belvidere baseball fans in summer-like attire to watch the Bucs and Blue Thunder tangle for the first time this season...

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6397:belvidere-rebounds-to-win-first-conference-game-&catid=99:belvidere&Itemid=501

Pair Of Titans Sign Letters Of Intent - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois - A pair of Boylan Titans will continue their playing careers at the college level...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=246316

Weather putting Snappers on hold

GRAND CHUTE, Wis. (BELOIT DAILY NEWS) — Due to a Midwestern snow storm that was expected to drop almost a foot of snow on Fox Cities Stadium, two games between the Beloit Snappers and Wisconsin Timber Rattlers have been canceled...

READ THE STORY: http://beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/04/20/sports/local_sports/sports2003.txt

NIU football player released from hospital - WREX.com

DEKALB (WREX) - NIU football player Devon Butler has been released from OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center two weeks after he was shot inside an off-campus apartment...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14483087

Athlete of the Week: Harlem's Hannah Sendele - WREX.com

MACHESNEY PARK (WREX) – The Harlem girls soccer team went 4-0 last weekend, capturing the Harlem Invitational title.  Goaltender Hannah Sendele led the way with two shutouts...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14486278

Durand seeks entries for July 3 Outhouse Race | The Rock River Times

DURAND, Ill.—The trophy features a roll of toilet paper and bragging rights for a year. The challenge is winning Durand's Fourth of July Outhouse Race Sunday, July 3, on the Town Square...

READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/04/20/durand-seeks-entries-for-july-3-outhouse-race/

Bighead carp added to federal list of injurious wildlife | The Rock River Times

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service published a final rule in the Federal Register March 22, officially adding the bighead carp to the federal injurious wildlife list. The final rule codifies the Asian Carp Prevention and Control Act (S. 1421), signed into law by President Barack Obama (D) Dec. 14, 2010...

READ THES STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/04/20/bighead-carp-added-to-federal-list-of-injurious-wildlife/

O'Sullivan, Roehl join RiverHawks' staff - WREX.com

LOVES PARK, Ill. – Veteran players will become rookie coaches this season...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14469618

Future Stars: Raptors Win Indoor Football Championship

Future Stars: Raptors Win Indoor Football Championship...

SEE THE STORY AT: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/Future_Stars_Raptors_Win_Indoor_Football_Championship_120150204.html

2011 Rockford Spring Classic Photos | Rockford Speedway

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT - PHOTOS FROM SPRING CLASSIC -  http://rockfordspeedway.com/node/450

A Little Reminiscing On 2010-11 - icehogs.com: Blog Hogs

I've had a good week to digest the 2010-11 season and, albeit, a little disappointing because the playoff push came up short, I think a lot of positive progress was made by the IceHogs...

READ THE BLOG POST AT: http://www.icehogs.com/news/blog/index.html?entry_id=347

Snappers Homestand ends on high note with rout - Beloit Daily News

BELOIT, WI  - When Jamaal Hawkins left extended spring training in Florida Saturday it was sunny, humid and 90 degrees...

READ THE STORY: http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/04/19/sports/local_sports/sports1801.txt

North, Freeport battle in six-goal soccer thriller

BELVIDERE - It was an exciting back and forth game when Belvidere North met the Freeport Pretzels in a varsity girls soccer match up...

READ THE STORY AT: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6387:north-freeport-battle-in-six-goal-soccer-thriller&catid=100:belvidere-north&Itemid=502

Rescheduled sporting events - The Journal-Standard

Freeport, Ill. — The Boys Varsity Baseball of Milledgeville High School against Forreston High School on 04/15/2011 has been Postponed to 5/11/2011

READ ABOUT THESE AND OTHER RESCHEDULED EVENTS AT: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1274030583/Rescheduled-sporting-events

Roach and Roser win Heritage Run - WREX.com

ROCKFORD, IL (WREX) - Adam Roach of Saginaw Michigan claimed the 2011 Heritage run on Sunday finishing the 10k race in 32:50...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14463577

Nottestad wins Big 8 Series race at Rockford Speedway - WREX.com

LOVES PARK, Ill.  – Dale Nottestad showed patience when many others didn't, biding his time and picking off cars to get to the front before putting it on cruise control and never looking back on the way to victory lane...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14463588

Local Fighters Let Loose In The Rumble At The Resort

ROCKFORD - The Clock Tower hosts one of the largest local MMA events...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/Local_Fighters_Let_Loose_In_The_Rumble_At_The_Resort__119987804.html

Journal-Standard Player of the Year: Colton Scott - The Journal-Standard

Forreston, Ill. — Coming into the season, the Forreston boys basketball team had a target on its back...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x432884319/Journal-Standard-Player-of-the-Year-Colton-Scott

Journal-Standard Defensive Player of the Year: Ryan Stukenberg - The Journal-Standard

Forreston, Ill. — A lot of players can score. Most players prefer to score. But not a lot of players want to sacrifice scoring numbers to play defense...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1274026957/Journal-Standard-Defensive-Player-of-the-Year-Ryan-Stukenberg

North softball fails to hold lead, loses 6-4 to Lakes

BELVIDERE (BELVIDERE DAILY REPUBLICAN) - In their first game since a long weather related lay-off, Belvidere North's softball team suffered a frustrating loss at the hands of Lakes High School...

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6374:north-softball-fails-to-hold-lead-loses-6-4-to-lakes&catid=100:belvidere-north&Itemid=502

Big Eight, Mid-American cars hit Speedway Sunday

ROCKFORD (BELOIT DAILY NEWS) — The 34th annual Spring Classic will get the green flag at 1 p.m. Sunday afternoon at Rockford Speedway, officially marking the start of short track racing in the upper Midwest...

READ THE STORY: http://beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/04/16/sports/local_sports/sports1603.txt

Softball team lends hand - Beloit Daily News

Members of the Big Dog Express 14U fastpitch softball team recently volunteered their time at the Rockford Rescue Mission, serving lunch to the residents and community...

READ THE STORY AND SEE PHOTO AT: http://beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/04/16/sports/local_sports/sports1601.txt

Vote for top RiverHawks catcher

FROM RIVERHAWKS PRESS RELEASE -  LOVES PARK, Ill. – Perhaps the only thing the catchers the Rockford RiverHawks have used over the years is the diversity of talent at the position. Some have been skilled with the mitt, some have had golden arms and others have had power potential. It’s up to fans to determine who was the best backstop the team has had.

In celebration of their 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, The Hemmens and Johnny Pamcakes, to be given out at a game to be announced.

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

Dave Bernstine (2003-04) – Bernstine was nicknamed “The Wall” for his role in what may have been the most pivotal play in team history. In early 2003, Bernstine blocked the plate from Gateway runner Doug Schutt in a violent collision at home plate at Marinelli Field. Schutt was injured in the play and never played for the Grizzlies again. Schutt caught on with the RiverHawks later in the season and became Rockford’s leadoff hitter in the 2004 championship season.

Bernstine hit .232 with five home runs and 44 RBI in two seasons with the RiverHawks.

Kevin Ciarrachi (2002-05) – Ciarrachi returned from two shoulder surgeries to backstop the pennant-winning 2004 team. Ciarrachi, a Frontier League All-Star, threw out 25 percent of attempted base stealers that year. In the deciding game of the RiverHawks’ first-round series against the Grizzlies, Ciarrachi had a run-scoring, extra-base hit in each of Rockford’s last two offensive innings.

Ciarrachi hit .277 in his four seasons as a RiverHawk and was charged with just eight passed balls.

Gooby Gerlits (2005-06) – Gerlits, with 19 home runs, is tied for fifth on the team’s career list. In 2005, Gerlits became the only Rockford catcher to hit 10 home runs in a season. He also threw out 34 percent of attempted base thieves that year.

Bobby Matthews (2002-03) – Matthews hit .285 in 1½ years with Rockford. He also threw out 26 percent of attempted base stealers, the best career success rate among RiverHawks catchers with more than 50 games behind the plate.

Travis Scott (2010) – Scott hit .302 with five home runs and 29 RBI in his only season with the RiverHawks. He signed with the Los Angeles Angels following the season. He threw out 34 percent of attempted base stealers to match Gerlits’ single-season team record.

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’s County’s premier Chevy dealer. Lou Bachrodt is located near Cherryvale Mall, just minutes from the stadium.

Johnny Pamcakes, located on E. State St. near Fairview, offers made-from-scratch breakfast, lunch and dinner.

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

Copyright © 2006 Rockford RiverHawks., All rights reserved. Visit us online at www.rockfordriverhawks.com 

Hononegah Sr. Mason Signs With Kentucky Football

Offensive Lineman Kelly Mason of Hononegah signed to play football at the University of Kentucky on Thursday...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/Hononegah_Sr_Mason_Signs_With_Kentucky_Football_119889584.html

NIU Football Player Shooting Update

The bond for two mean accused of shooting a NIU football stand-out will not be reduced...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/NIU_Football_Player_Shooting_Update_119934534.html

New season brings changes for Belvidere North baseball

BELVIDERE - A new season for Belvidere North's varsity baseball program brings with it a new head coach and a new system of play...

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6369:new-season-brings-changes-for-belvidere-north-baseball&catid=100:belvidere-north&Itemid=502

Orangeville gets breaks in win over Milledgeville

Milledgeville, Ill. — One break can help lead to a win or loss, and in the final inning of the Orangeville-Milledgeville softball game, the Broncos caught the final break and held off the Missiles 5-4 on Thursday...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1798429552/Orangeville-gets-breaks-in-win-over-Milledgeville

Cougars get swept by Kougars - The Journal-Standard

Freeport, Ill. — The Highland softball team again struggled against Kishwaukee on a cold Thursday afternoon...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x432881138/Cougars-get-swept-by-Kougars

Goodwin Preps For Rumble At The Resort

ROCKFORD - Local MMA star Anthony Goodwin will headline the event at the Clock Tower Resort...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/Goodwin_Preps_For_Rumble_At_The_Resort__119889809.html

Baseball is back at Winnebago High School - WREX.com

WINNEBAGO (WREX) – The Winnebago baseball team is off to the best start in school history...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14450738

Andre Dawson Visits Rockford - MyStateLine.com

ROCKFORD, ILLINOIS - WELL ITS NOT EVERYDAY A HALL OF FAMER MAKES THEIR WAY TO ROCKFORD. BUT THATS EXACTLY WHAT WENT DOWN TONIGHT OVER AT GIOVANNI'S AS CUBS LEGEND ANDRE DAWSON WAS IN THE HOUSE...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=245507

Thibodeau Named Coach Of The Month - MyStateLine.com

NEW YORK, April 14, 2011 – The Chicago Bulls' Tom Thibodeau and the Portland Trail Blazers' Nate McMillan today were named the NBA Eastern and Western Conference Coaches of the Month, respectively, for games played in April...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=245497

AMERICAN HOCKEY LEAGUE ANNOUNCES SCHEDULE MODIFICATION TO BEGIN IN 2011-12

Springfield, Mass.-The American Hockey League announced today that its Board of Governors has approved a schedule modification plan beginning with the 2011-12 season.

Under the plan, the regular-season playing schedule will be reduced to 76 games; the AHL playing
calendar will be extended by one week; all sequences in which teams play four games in five nights will be eliminated; and the first round of the Calder Cup Playoffs will be reduced to a best-of-five series.

"As our league has grown in recent years, we have been working closely with the National Hockey
League and the Professional Hockey Players' Association to seek a solution to what has become a very onerous playing schedule," said David Andrews, President and CEO of the American Hockey League. "As our league has grown and our game has become faster and more physical, the wear and tear on our players has begun to affect player development and at times the quality of competition. These steps are intended to provide a safer environment for our players through increased rest and recovery time, and also to provide our fans with an even higher caliber of play as a result of reduced player fatigue."

Celebrating its historic 75th anniversary season in 2010-11, the American Hockey League continues to serve as the top development league for all 30 National Hockey League teams, with more than 85 percent of today's NHL players and 22 of 30 NHL head coaches having graduated from the AHL. Through the years, the American Hockey League has been home to more than 100 honored members of the Hockey Hall of Fame

RiverHawks Trade Star Player

LOVES PARK, Ill. – One of the greatest hitters in Frontier League history won't be terrorizing the circuit's pitchers this year.

The Rockford RiverHawks announced Thursday that they have dealt all-star outfielder Jason James to the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks of the American Association for pitcher Matt Zoltak, cash and future considerations.

James, the only four-time all-star in team history, says goodbye to the RiverHawks while in possession of nearly every major career hitting mark in the team's record books. 

"JJ will be missed dearly," said new RiverHawks manager Rich Austin, who played with James last season. "He had a great career with us and, like everybody in the organization and the community, it will be very hard to replace a player like that, but JJ and I talked and he felt that the American Association would be a better opportunity for him. Jason has done everything he can do in the Frontier League. He deserves the opportunity to play in a more experienced league."

Last season, James hit .283 with 10 home runs and 57 RBI and was a Northern League All-Star. He was a Frontier League All-Star in 2007-09. In '09, James had a 40-game hitting streak, a Frontier League record and one of the 20 longest in the history of the minor leagues. James hit a team-record .374 that year to win the batting title. Following the season, James signed with the Chicago Cubs and Baseball America magazine recognized him as a member of its All-Independent Leagues Team.

"Everyone that's been involved with the RiverHawks, (director of baseball operations) Dave Ciarrachi, Koop (former manager Bob Koopmann), has my thanks," James said. "I couldn't ask for any more from an organization. It goes a long way.

"There's a time and a place to move on. It's hard, but you have to."

James is the RiverHawks' all-time leader in batting average (.337), home runs (44), RBI (256), games (404), at-bats (1,555), runs (227), hits (524), doubles (110) and outfield assists (33). James has spent his entire career with the RiverHawks, with the exception of a spring-training stint with the Cubs last year. He played in a major-league exhibition game against Cincinnati.

Austin notes that James is following a similar route to his. Each played college ball at Lindenwood University and each went from the RiverHawks to Fargo. Austin spent 2005-07 with the RedHawks after three years in Rockford.

"We wish him the best of luck and I'm sure that all the fans that he has here will be keeping tabs on him, hoping that he gets another shot at affiliated ball," Austin said. "My bet is that he will."

Zoltak broke into professional baseball with the RedHawks last year. He was 1-2 with a 7.02 earned-run average in four appearances, including a seven-inning, four-hit performance in an 8-3 win at Winnipeg in his first pro start. The lefty averaged nearly a strikeout an inning, with a 2-to-1 strikeout-to-walk ratio, with Fargo. Zoltak pitched collegiately at Clemson and at Florida Southern.

"We're getting a good quality young pitcher," Austin said. "My former coaches, (Fargo manager Doug) Simunic and (pitching coach Steve) Montgomery, spoke highly of him and believe he will be able to have some success in this league."

The RiverHawks open their 10^th season at 7:05 p.m. Friday, May 20, when they host Traverse City in Frontier League action. Advertising and ticket information is available by calling (815) 885-2255. Fans can also visitwww.rockfordriverhawks.com.

http://ism.infinityprosports.com/Components/Emailer2/MailSendViewer.php?OnlineEmailID=7681&ID2=350

Beloit Daily News - Trojans pull out title in Relays

CLINTON — If the Rock Valley Relays are any indication, Beloit Turner's boys are going to be a difficult team to top this spring...

READ THE STORY: http://beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/04/11/sports/local_sports/sports1101.txt

Taylor's homers lead Freeport past Auburn - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

FREEPORT - Freeport softball coach Jeff Sands views the regular season as two separate seasons...

http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x90876100/Taylors-homers-lead-Freeport-past-Auburn

Snappers Win Home Opener 4/11/11 - MyStateLine.com

Beloit, Wisconsin-The Snappers had a successful home opener Monday night.  They beat the Clinton LumberKings 7-2...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=244677

Hogs Leave Feeling Upbeat 4/11/11 - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois-It was an empty feeling for the IceHogs the last two years when they were swept out of the opening round of the playoffs.  This season they didn't make the playoffs, but they walked out of the locker room for the last time with their heads high and a sense of pride at the way they finished up...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=244657

Rockford East keeps North Boone losing streak alive

ROCKFORD – The thinking was Thursday's softball game with Rockford East was one North Boone could win. And that would have been a nice homecoming gift of sorts for head coach Rita Lee, an alum of the now defunct Rockford West High School...

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6341:rockford-east-keeps-north-boone-losing-streak-alive&catid=101:north-boone&Itemid=503

Indoor Football Returning 4/11/11 - MyStateLine.com

Loves Park, Illinois-Indoor football is returning to the Stateline.  The Chicago Knights of the Continental Indoor Football League have reached an agreement to play their home games at the Victory Sports Complex in Loves Park...

READ THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=244687

BLACKHAWKS RECALL FOUR FROM ROCKFORD

Chicago, Ill. - The Chicago Blackhawks have recalled forward Jeff Taffe, defensemen Jassen Cullimore and Garnet Exelby, and goaltender Hannu Toivonen from the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs.

Taffe, 30, appeared in one game with the Blackhawks this season, logging 4:05 of ice time on Feb. 12 at Phoenix, in his first year with the organization. The Hastings, Minnesota, native paced Rockford and shared eighth in the AHL with a career-high 30 goals and led the IceHogs with 67 points (30G, 37A) in 74 regular-season tilts. Taffe has registered 21 goals and 23 assists in 175 career regular-season NHL contests over parts of seven seasons with the Blackhawks, Phoenix Coyotes (2002-04, 2005, 2006-07), New York Rangers (2005), Pittsburgh Penguins (2007-09) and Florida Panthers (2009-10).

Cullimore, 38, recorded eight assists and eight penalty minutes in 36 regular-season games with the Blackhawks this season, and nine points (2G, 7A) in 41 AHL contests with Rockford. The Simcoe, Ontario, native is a veteran of 812 career National Hockey League regular-season games, racking up 85 assists, 111 points and 704 penalty minutes with the Vancouver Canucks (1994-96), Montreal Canadiens, (1996-98), Tampa Bay Lightning (1998-2004), Blackhawks (2005-07, 2010-11) and Florida Panthers (2007-09). Cullimore has also notched four points (G, 3A) in 35 career postseason contests, which includes helping Tampa Bay capture the 2004 Stanley Cup.

Exelby, 29, registered 13 points (3G, 10A) and ranked second among club defensemen with a +7 plus/minus rating in 77 AHL contests with Rockford while serving as the captain of the IceHogs. The Ste. Anne, Manitoba, native is a veteran of 408 career National Hockey League regular-season games, racking up 43 assists, 50 points and 584 penalty minutes with the Atlanta Thrashers (2002-09) and Toronto Maple Leafs (2009-10).

Toivonen, 26, dressed for one game with the Blackhawks this season but did not appear in the contest. The Kalvola, Finland, native led Rockford with a career-high 21 wins (21-16-6) and posted a team-best .907 save percentage in 49 appearances between the pipes. Originally acquired by the Blackhawks on March 1, 2010, in a trade with the St. Louis Blues, Toivonen has appeared in 61 career NHL contests with Boston (2005-07) and St. Louis (2007-08), registering an 18-24-10 record with a 3.37 goals against average and an .890 save percentage.

The Blackhawks will kick off the 2011 Western Conference Quarterfinals on Wednesday, April 13 at 9 p.m. when they open the best-of-seven series against the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena.

Season Tickets On Sale For 2011-12: It'll be a long summer without IceHogs hockey and season ticket packages for the 2011-12 season are now on sale. To find a ticket package that quenches your hockey thirst, call (815) 847-6399.

Rockford IceHogs finish season on five-game winning streak

Rockford finishes season on five-game winning streak
Week 27 Recap:
The Rockford IceHogs finished the 2010-11 season strong, winning all four contests in Week 27 and 10 of their final 11 games on the campaign.  The IceHogs tied a season best five-game winning streak and improved to a season best five games over .500. Despite missing out on the postseason for the first time in six seasons, Rockford finished with a record of 38-33-4-5.
Week 27 Results:                  
Tuesday, Apr. 5: Rockford 4 at San Antonio 2         
Friday, Apr. 8: Lake Erie 2 vs. Rockford 4  
Saturday, Apr. 9: Grand Rapids 2 vs. Rockford 4
Sunday, Apr. 10: Rockford 5 at Chicago 4 OT
Bacon Bits:
The IceHogs finished the campaign on a five-game winning streak, matching the season-best mark set from March 23 to March 30

Rockford finished the season winning 10 of the club’s 11 games

Since Feb. 26, Rockford compiled a record of 17-5-1-1 over their final 24 games

Rockford finished the season a season-high, five-games over .500 (38-33-4-5)

Rockford ended three Lake Erie franchise record eight-game winning streaks in the last month

On Friday, the IceHogs ended the Monsters eight-game road winning streak, on March 30 Rockford stopped their eight-game overall winning streak and on March 5 ended the Monsters eight-game home winning streak

The IceHogs tallied nine shorthanded goals in 2010-11, two of which came in Rockford’s second to last game

Center Mathis Olimb notched Rockford’s first goal on Saturday with the IceHogs down a man, and Jeff Taffe added an empty net goal to seal the game when the Griffins had the extra attacker

In his sixth professional game, center David Gilbert registered two goals in the IceHogs 5-4 overtime win over the Wolves, including his first professional goal

Gilbert became the 12th IceHogs skater on the season to record two goals in one game

Defenseman Joe Lavin assisted on Gilbert’s second tally, the point was Lavin’s first professional point in his second professional game

Winger Philippe Paradis notched his first professional goal in the IceHogs 4-2 win against Grand Rapids on Saturday, the game-winning marker

Taffe was named the IceHogs Most Valuable Player, leading the club in goals (30) and points (67)

Winger Kyle Hagel finished the campaign with an IceHogs single-season AHL record 245 penalty minutes

Defenseman Brian Connelly was the only IceHogs skater to appear in all 80 games this season

Connelly also set a single season IceHogs record for points (53), goals (11) and assists (42) by a blue-liner

Rockford set a single season attendance record in 2010-11, drawing 174,418 fans, an average of 4,360

The IceHogs previous attendance mark was 159,132, an increase of 9.6%
Hot Hog: Week 26:
Jeff Taffe Right Wing
Veteran forward Jeff Taffe capped off the 2010-11 season perfectly, helping Rockford win all four contests in Week 27 and recording at least a point in each game. Taffe ended the week with three-straight multi-point games to give him a team-high 14 on the season. The Hastings, Minn. native began the week scoring Rockford’s first goal in the IceHogs 4-2 win over San Antonio on April 5. Rockford’s most valuable player added two helpers on Friday night against Lake Erie. Then, the 30 year-old tallied a goal and assist in Rockford 4-2 win on Saturday against Grand Rapids and again on Sunday at Chicago. The marker on Sunday came after the IceHogs battled back from a three goal deficit to send the game into overtime, where Taffe fired in the game-winner, his career-best 30th goal on the campaign.
The IceHogs Broadcasting Network:
Rockford IceHogs fans can catch all of the IceHogs regular-and post-season games on the Hogs’ flagship radio station, Rockford’s Voice, WNTA-AM 1330 and 30 regular season games on ESPN Radio 1380-AM, WTJK.  Fans can also watch and listen to the Hogs on the World Wide Web with AHL Live!  Visit the IceHogs Web site (icehogs.com) and click on the “click here to watch the AHL Live” icon, and for just $7 you can catch all of the IceHogs action on your computer.  Also, fans with Comcast Cable television in Rockford can tune in to Channel 57 for all the IceHogs hockey action at the MetroCentre this season. All Saturday home game will also be televised on My Network TV digital subchannel 17.2 along with Comcast and Charter Cable channel 16. The broadcast begins with the U.S. Cellular Pregame Show 30 minutes before the puck drops. Make sure to give your opinion during the Comcast Post-Game Call-In Show following each game at (815) 874-8255.
Tickets On Sale For 2011-2012!
It'll be a long summer without IceHogs hockey and season ticket packages for the 2011-12 season are now on sale. To find a ticket package that quenches your hockey thirst, call (815) 847-6399.

Rockford Forester Ticket Sales to Benefit Rockford Sharefest

The Rockford Foresters Baseball Team is happy to announce 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.

VISIT: http://www.rockfordforesters.com/news/?article_id=107

Rockford Speedway Photos from April 9th

VISIT: http://rockfordspeedway.com/node/446 to see photos from this past weekend's racing at the Rockford Speedway.

TAFFE, ICEHOGS FINISH OFF WOLVES IN OVERTIME

TAFFE, ICEHOGS FINISH OFF WOLVES IN OVERTIME
Rosemont, Ill.- A strong finish to the 2010-11 season turned dramatic on Sunday afternoon for the Rockford IceHogs as the battled back from two three-goal deficits to knock off the Chicago Wolves 5-4 in overtime at the Allstate Arena.

The IceHogs completed the season with a five-game winning streak and won 10 of their final 11 games on the campaign. Despite missing out on the postseason for the first time in six seasons, Rockford finished with a record of 38-33-4-5.

Down 4-1 moments after a short-handed goal by the Wolves, rookie winger David Gilbert would begin the comeback and reduce the Rockford deficit back down to a pair. The rookie center banked as hot off of Wolves defenseman Arturs Kulda and in past Edward Pasquale on the power play at 3:19 of the third to make it 4-2. Joe Lavin recorded his first career assist on the goal.

Rob Klinkhammer made it a one-goal game with a breakaway tally. The fourth-year winger blocked a dump in attempt by the Wolves Jamie Siefers and backhanded his 17th goal of the campaign past Pasquale at 13:49 for his 17th of the season.

With timing winding down in the third period, Rockford pulled Hannu Toivonen for the extra attacker and tied the game with just 39-seconds left in regulation. Brandon Pirri’s pass found Mathis Olimb and the winger buried his tenth goal of the season past Pasquale to tie the game at 4-4.

Then in overtime Jeff Taffe would end the contest with his 30th goal of the season. Ryan Stanton found Rob Klinkhammer in the neutral zone and the winger dropped the puck to Taffe who cut across the Wolves zone and he fired the game winner off the inside of the post and past Pasquale at 3:33 of the overtime.

Chicago controlled the tempo early-on on Sunday and capitalized on an IceHogs turnover. Sergio Somma picked off a Philippe Paradis pass and fed Riley Holzapfel who backhanded his 12th goal of season past a sprawled out Toivonen at 10:13 of the opening frame.

Later in the period Rockford staved off a five-minute power play by the Wolves after Kyle Hagel was assessed a five-minute major and a game misconduct for a check to the head of Chicago’s Tim Miller. Hagel finished the season with 245 penalties including a franchise record 32 majors.

In the second period, however, the Wolves would convert on a power play to make it 2-0. Mark Matheson blasted a shot through traffic and under Toivonen for his ninth goal of the season at 4:45. Then at 9:41 Chicago made it 3-0 after Rockford’s transition rush resulted in a two-on-one back into their own zone.

Jason Krog picked up a loose puck and found Frederick Pettersson on the right win and the rookie winger wristed home his 11th goal of the season at 9:41 of the second period, increasing Chicago lead to 3-0.

Gilbert would put Rockford on the board and reduce the IceHogs deficit to two before the second intermission. Taffe found Gilbert streaking to the net on a rush and the rookie center redirected his first professional goal past Pasquale at 18:58 of the middle frame.

Wit Rockford trying to get back into the game with a power play early in the third period, it was the Wolves who would notch a marker short handed. Miller followed a Darren Haydar rebound and beat Toivonen under the right arm for his 11th goal of the season at 1:33.

Toivonen made 37 saves to earn his 21st win of the season while Pasquale turned away 33 Rockford shots in the overtime loss.

Season Tickets On Sale For 2011-12: It'll be a long summer without IceHogs hockey and season ticket packages for the 2011-12 season are now on sale. To find a ticket package that quenches your hockey thirst, call (815) 847-6399.

All hoops, all the time - Freeport, IL

Freeport, Ill. — All Giovonni and Demetri Offard want to do is hoops. Just ask their mother, Michelle. She probably couldn't separate them from a basketball if she tried.

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x481363947/All-hoops-all-the-time

Hollins Pretzel of the Winter - Freeport, IL

Freeport, Ill. — When you accomplish something that hasn't been done
in a program for nearly 20 years, it gets attention. For Freeport
grappler Armond Hollins, the work required to accomplish the feat is
what he feels deserves attention...
READ THE STORY:
http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x675831357/Hollins-Pretzel-of-the-Winter

Finnert Finds His Way to Victory Lane as Rockford's 64th Season Begins | Rockford Speedway

LOVES PARK , Ill. (Saturday, April 9th, 2011) -- Doug Finnert bested an enormous 65 car field in a battle of attrition today, surviving a late charge from Steve McBride to open up the historic 64th consecutive season at the Rockford Speedway with a win in the third annual Stone & Double T 200 lap enduro...

READ THE STORY: http://rockfordspeedway.com/node/445

Snappers Lose Opener

DAVENPORT, Iowa — The Beloit Snappers' defense got off to a rocky start to begin the 2011 season in Friday's 7-4 loss to Quad Cities at Modern Woodmen Park...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/04/09/sports/local_sports/sports0902.txt

IceHogs Win Home Finale 4/9/11 - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Ill.- With their final home game of the season on Saturday night the Rockford IceHogs held off the Grand Rapids Griffins 4-2 in front of 6,153 fans at the Rockford MetroCentre...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=244257

Former RiverHawks With Major League Affiliates

LOVES PARK, Ill. – Two former Rockford RiverHawks are beginning the season Thursday with high Class A major-league affiliates.

Catcher Travis Scott, who played for the RiverHawks last season, is with Pittsburgh’s Florida State League affiliate at Bradenton. Scott is not in the starting lineup for the Marauders’ game at Charlotte.

Lefty Taylor Sinclair, who pitched for the RiverHawks three years ago, is with Arizona’s California League affiliate at Visalia. He is slated for the bullpen. The Rawhide open the season at home against Bakersfield.

Scott threw out 34 percent of opposing basestealers, the best percentage in the Northern League, in 2010. Though he didn’t have enough plate appearances to qualify for the batting title, Scott hit .300 with five home runs and 29 RBI in 65 games. Scott began last season in the Seattle organization. He hit a combined .254 with five homers and 23 RBI at Class AA West Tennessee and high Class A High Desert.

The Los Angeles Angels signed him in December, only to lose him to the Pirates in the minor-league phase of the Rule 5 Draft.

Sinclair started his pro career with the RiverHawks, but after he averaged a strikeout an inning in four appearances, the Diamondbacks picked him up. Last year at Visalia, he was 8-7 with a 4.74 earned-run average in 27 appearances.

A third former RiverHawk, San Francisco farmhand Justin Dowdy, is in the Class AA Richmond bullpen for Thursday’s Eastern League opener against visiting New Britain.

The RiverHawks open their 10^th season at 7:05 p.m. Friday, May 20, when they host Traverse City. Advertising and ticket information is available by calling (815) 885-2255. Fans can also visit www.rockfordriverhawks.com.

JOE LAVIN JOINS ROCKFORD AFTER SIGNING AN ATO

JOE LAVIN JOINS ROCKFORD AFTER SIGNING AN ATO

Rockford, Ill. – Chicago Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliations Mark Bernard announced on Saturday that defenseman Joe Lavin has signed an amateur try-out agreement with the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League.

The Shrewsbury, Mass. native finished his second season with Notre Dame accumulating 6g-11a-17pts in 44 games in 2010-11.

Prior to skating with the Fighting Irish, the 21 year old appeared in 57 games for the Omaha Lancers of the USHL during the 2008-09 and 2009-10 seasons, racking up 40 points (12g-28a). Lavin also registered nine points (9a) in 48 games at Providence College in 2007-08 and 2008-09 before transferring to Notre Dame.

Lavin was the Blackhawks fifth round pick (#126 overall) in the 2007 National Hockey League Entry Draft.

Next Home Game: Saturday, April 9 vs. Grand Rapids Griffins. Puck drop is at 7:05 p.m.  In the final home game of the season, the IceHogs battle the Grand Rapids Griffins at the MetroCentre. The contest is the sixth and final meeting between the two clubs. Rockford shows a record of 3-2-0-0 against Grand Rapids in '10-11.


ROCKFORD'S HOME FINALE SOLD OUT


Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs will take on the Grand Rapids Griffins in the final home game of the 2010-11 season tonight at the sold out Rockford MetroCentre at 7:05 p.m.

The Rockford IceHogs continue to be one of the hottest teams in the AHL after defeating the Lake Erie Monsters last night ending the Monsters  franchise record eight-game road winning streak.  Since Feb. 25, the IceHogs are 15-5-1-1 and have won eight of their last nine contests.

Tonight's game can be heard on 1330 AM WNTA, 1380 AM ESPN and on-line at www.wnta.combeginning at 6:35 p.m. with the U.S. Cellular Pregame Show.  The game can be seen in Rockford on Rockford's My Network TV Channel 17.2 and Comcast and Charter Channel 16 and on the web through www.ahllive.com.

The contest is the sixth and final meeting between the two clubs. Rockford shows a record of 3-2-0-0 against Grand Rapids in '10-11, although the Griffins have won the last two contests.

Last time the two teams clashed, Grand Rapids bested the Hogs 5-3.  Defenseman Jassen Cullimore lit the lamp twice that night and had a helper for his first career professional three-point game.

The first 2,500 fans to the game will receive a 2010-11 IceHogs team photo.

Also, the IceHogs will hold a side walk sale located outside Oink Outfitters on the main concourse.  All merchandise will be heavily discounted between 40-60% off, available during the game only.

The IceHogs finish the regular season tomorrow afternoon at the Allstate Arena when they face the Chicago Wolves at 3 p.m.

Season Tickets On Sale For 2011-12: It'll be a long summer without IceHogs hockey and season ticket packages for the 2011-12 season are now on sale. To find a ticket package that quenches your hockey thirst, call (815) 847-6399.

NIU football player improving after shooting - WREX.com

DEKALB (WREX) - The NIU football player shot inside an off-campus apartment Tuesday night is getting better...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14396091

Local Bowling Prodigy

ROCKFORD (WIFR) - 12-year-old Jacob Nimtz of Loves Park bowled an 821 this weekend at Don Carter Lanes...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/Local_Bowling_Prodigy_119446894.html

IceHogs Seek Big Finish - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois-The IceHogs have won seven of their last eight games.  They hope to keep the momentum rolling through this final weekend of the season...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=243906

Fan-favorite Austin named new RiverHawks manager

FROM PRESS RELEASE - LOVES PARK, Ill. – He's been nicknamed "The Cannon" and "The Franchise." Rockford RiverHawks fans can now call him "Skipper."

The RiverHawks on Friday introduced Richard Austin as the fourth manager in team history. Austin, 33, played for the RiverHawks in 2002-04 and again in 2010. He was the Frontier League Player of the Year in 2004, when the RiverHawks won Rockford's only professional baseball championship of the last half-century. Austin replaces Bob Koopmann, who managed the RiverHawks to that pennant. Austin also announced his retirement as a player Friday.

"I'm very thankful for the opportunity to start a new path in baseball," Austin said. "Thank you to the city of Rockford and the surrounding communities for the support they've given me during my playing years and I look forward to seeing our great fans this summer from a different angle.

"I've always had a strong commitment to this organization, which is one of the reasons I've moved my family here to Rockford. I've made Rockford my permanent home and would like to continue to grow with the organization."

In addition to his on-field duties, Austin has made regular appearances on the team's behalf throughout his career with the team.

"It's a thrill to be able to keep a fan favorite in the organization," RiverHawks general manager Brad Sholes said. "Rich has been a huge factor in our on-field success over the years and has always had a great understanding of the importance of community outreach for our organization. He is the face of the RiverHawks, and he will be our point man in the Stateline for speaking engagements, school visits, parades and other events."

Austin is a veteran who had signed with the RiverHawks for 2010, the team's lone season in the Northern League. With a return to the Frontier League, announced on Monday, the RiverHawks also return to a set of player-eligibility rules that made him too old to play in Rockford.

Austin spent half of his 10-year playing career with the organization. He broke into pro ball in 2001 with the Springfield Capitals, who relocated to cavernous Marinelli Field in Rockford and became the RiverHawks following the season. Austin spent 2002-04 and 2010 with the RiverHawks.

"I believe that this is a great hire for the RiverHawks," Frontier League commissioner Bill Lee said. "Rich is a class individual that presents a great face for the team. (Austin is) a former Frontier League MVP; I love to see former players come back to the league as coaches and managers. Rich is one of my all-time favorites."

Half of the Frontier League's 12 managers are former FL players. The others are Gateway's Phil Warren, River City's Steve Brook, Windy City's Mike Kashirsky, Florence's Fran Riordan and Washington's Darin Everson.

In 2004, Austin hit .359 to win the Frontier League batting title, and set single-season team records in home runs (15) and RBI (77) that still stand. Following the season, he was voted Frontier League Most Valuable Player, named by Baseball America magazine to its All-Independent Leagues All-Star Team and was signed by the Kansas City Royals.

Austin moved to the Northern League following his release by the Royals the next spring. He played for three playoff teams, including the 2006 pennant winner, with the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks. He also played briefly with Tabasco in the Mexican League in 2007 – he became the first former RiverHawk to play at the Triple-A level. Austin played for Fortitudo Bologna of the Italian Baseball League in 2008-09 and was part of a pennant winner his final year in Europe.

The outfielder-first baseman hit .296, the team's best average among batting-title qualifiers, with nine home runs and 55 RBI last year. He also walked 73 times, a team record and the best in the Northern League, to record a league-best .431 on-base percentage.

Austin finished his career with a .304 average, 104 home runs and 524 RBI. He holds the RiverHawks' career record for walks (247) and is second on the home-run (41), RBI (204), runs (225), hits (340) and outfield-assists (28) lists.

Austin played in all-star games in 2004-07 and was named to end-of-year all-star teams in 2004, 2005 and 2008.

The remainder of the coaching staff will be announced at a later date.

The RiverHawks open their 10th season at 7:05 p.m. Friday, May 20, when they host Traverse City. Advertising and ticket information is available by calling (815) 885-2255. Fans can also visit www.rockfordriverhawks.com.

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Entries Continue to Grow for Saturday’s Stone and Double T 200 | Rockford Speedway

Entries Continue to Grow for Saturday's Stone and Double T 200

Rockford, IL- As the first race of the season at Rockford Speedway quickly approaches, drivers from across the region continue to file their entries for the WXRX Stone and Double T 200 taking place this Saturday April 9 at Rockford Speedway. Last season saw 55 drivers take to the high banked quarter mile oval in an enduro race which also utilizes the 'Monza', a tricky twisty turn through the infield of the 64 year old venue.

The fourth running of this event will once again feature four cylinder stock cars attempting to complete 200 laps with no caution flags, just all out racing. "Entries are ahead of last year's pace, it promises to be an exciting opening day in Rockford." stated Speedway President Jody Deery. Spectator gates will open at 1pm with the green flag waving at 3pm. Adult tickets are just $10, students (ages 12-17) are $8, children (ages 6-11) are $5 with kids 5 and under admitted FREE. For additional information visitwww.rockfordspeedway.com or call the Speedway Box Office at 815-633-1500.

http://rockfordspeedway.com/node/442

Changes ahead for Rockford Marathon - WREX.com

ROCKFORD, IL (WREX) - The 2011 Rockford Marathon takes place May 15th and will feature some changes from previous races. The most notable change is to the course itself...

SEE THE STORY AT: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14397705

Athlete of the Week: Boylan's Ryan and Adam Dahlberg - WREX.com – Rockford’s News Leader

ROCKFORD, IL (WREX) - Ryan and Adam Dahlberg have proven to be a winning combination for the Boylan tennis team this season. The brothers teamed together to win the number one doubles title at the Boylan Open earlier this month...

SEE THE STORY AT: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14398295

Playoffs next stop for North Boone arena football teams

LOVES PARK – Two of the three North Boone youth arena football teams will be in the playoffs on Saturday at the Northwest Bank Victory Sports Complex, 7003 North Alpine Road...

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6317:playoffs-next-stop-for-north-boone-arena-football-teams&catid=120:boone-county-sports&Itemid=494

Tire Sale This Thursday Night at Rockford Speedway | Rockford Speedway

Tire Sale This Thursday Night at Rockford Speedway

Loves Park, IL- As a reminder to race teams as they get set for the upcoming 2011 season, their first chance to purchase tires will take place tomorrow night, April 7 from 5pm until 7pm at Forest City Tire located inside the pit area at Rockford Speedway. An abundant supply of Hoosier 800 tires for weekly Late Model and Big 8 Series teams as well as Hoosier 890 and Goodyear Sportsman tires, the Hoosier 790 for American Short Trackers and the 16" Goodyear street tires utilized by the RoadRunners will be available. No tires will be mounted during this sale, tires will also be available for purchase during the Open Practice and Stone and Double T 200 Enduro Saturday April 9. Prices for the 2011 season are as follows:

Make and Model: Price per Tire
Hoosier 800: $100
Goodyear 2862/2863: $100
Hoosier 890: $100
Hoosier 790: $90
16" DOT Tires: $21.50
16" Racing Wheels: $70
*all prices include tax

For further information contact Rockford Speedway at 815-633-1500   http://rockfordspeedway.com/node/444

IceHogs' Final Homestand of 2010-11

ROCKFORD'S LAST STAND - Final Homestand of 2010-11

The Rockford IceHogs host the Grand Rapids Griffins on Saturday, April 9 at  7:05pm.  Doors are at 6:05pm.

It's Fan Appreciation Night, including a Team Photo giveaway, Paper Airplane  Toss, and prizes given away every whistle!

Prizes include airline vouchers, tickets to Avenged Sevenfold (at the MetroCentre on 4/27/11), Jerseys of their backs, and more!