CONNELLY TO JOIN ICEHOGS D CORPS

Defenseman expected to be in the line-up tonight

Rockford, Ill- Chicago Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliates, Mark Bernard, announced Monday that defenseman Brian Connelly has signed an ATO with the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League. Connelly is expected to be in the lineup tonight against the first-place Milwaukee Admirals.

Connelly, a Bloomington, Minn. native joins the Hogs after playing his third season with the Colorado College Tigers (NCAA). In 38 games with C.C. the d-man recorded a career-high 27pts (3g-24A) leading all defensemen in points and assists and securing the third spot in team scoring.

In three seasons with Colorado College of the WCHA, Connelly played in 114 games, notching 63 points (8g-55a) and 100 PIM. Prior to his college career with the Tigers, Connolly skated two seasons with the Tri-City Storm of the USHL. Playing in 74 regular season games and recording 15 points (3g-12a) and 28 PIM.

Next Home Game: Wednesday, March 25 vs. Iowa Chops. Game time is slated for 7:05 p.m. The final meeting of the season between the IceHogs and Chops happens on Wednesday at the MetroCentre. The game is the tenth on the season and the IceHogs will try to even the season series with a win. One lucky college student will drive away in a car that will be given away courtesy of Speedway Auto Mall. Wednesday is also another WXRX Student Rush Night as students with a valid ID can purchase any seat for $10 at the door.