Tuesday, December 24, 2013

On the Beat with the Rockford IceHogs-12/21/2013

Last Saturday, JohngysBeat.com Hockey Expert Jason Fleigel and I made the trek to Rockford and joined 4,000 other fans who braved the inclement weather to watch the Rockford IceHogs play the Milwaukee Admirals.  This was a battle for second place in the Midwest Division of the Western Conference.
The last game we attended was the same matchup, with the Ice Hogs winning 2-1.  We had such a great time we wanted to come back again as soon as schedules would allow.  Despite the bad weather, we were not going to be denied another visit to Rockford.
Since our last IceHogs game, many people have asked me why go to Rockford when there is plenty of hockey in Chicago.  There are many factors involved, such as experiencing something new, getting away from Chicago and checking out all of Rockford's other attractions.  Another important reason is that the IceHogs of today are the Chicago BlackHawks of tomorrow.  Just since our last game, Jeremy Morin and Kent Simpson both logged in time with the Hawks.
Unfortunately, the IceHogs lost on Saturday.  They jumped out to a 1-0 lead, but the Admirals fought back and left with a 3-1 victory.  IceHogs goalie had a solid night in goal, despite giving up three goals.  The IceHogs failed to take advantage of a few powerplays, sometimes getting a penalty themselves.  It was just one of those games.
After the game, we talked to Coach Ted Dent about the game and the goalie situation.  We also talked to Brandon Pirri and Alex Broadhurst.  We really appreciate all three talking to us after the tough loss.  I am quite sure nobody really wanted to stand there and answer questions from the media, but they were professional and gave us solid answers to our questions.
Once again, despite the loss, on the way home, we were already trying to plan our next game.  It's just that much fun.  I am sure if you give the IceHogs a chance, you will feel like we do.  For more info on the IceHogs, go to IceHogs.com.

No comments: