ICEHOGS ADOPT WEST MIDDLE SCHOOL

Rockford, Ill. – The Rockford IceHogs announced on Wednesday that they have adopted West Middle School for the 2012-13 season as a part of the team’s adopt-a-school program. The IceHogs officially made the announcement at a press conference on Wednesday at West Middle School’s homecoming pep rally.

As a part of the adopt-a-school program, IceHogs players, coaches and staff will make appearances at West Middle School in an effort to conglomerate fun and education. The IceHogs will provide each student with a “Hockey 101” workbook to further develop students with learning history, geography, math and science based on hockey.

“West Middle School is proud to partner with the Rockford IceHogs Professional Hockey Organization in our efforts to foster student achievement while developing appropriate social-emotional support for the youth of Rockford,” said West Middle School Principal Maceo Rainey.

“Our partnership will focus on developing a inter-disciplinary approach to teaching and learning about Hockey which has an academic connection and relevance to courses such as: Geography, Reading, Science, and Math," said Rainey. "In addition, our partnership with the Rockford IceHogs will provide students with much needed support within the social-emotional domain, which will assist students with developing healthy levels of self-esteem, confidence, and developing a culture of respect.

“On behalf of West Middle School and District 205 administrative team, we are proud of our collaborative relationship with the Rockford IceHogs organization and we can’t spell success without U!”

Students at West Middle School who excel in class and achieve the honor roll will be rewarded with various opportunities, such as bowling with the IceHogs, tickets to future IceHogs games and touring the BMO Harris Bank Center – including the IceHogs locker room and observing practice.

The IceHogs adopted Lincoln Middle School and Hillman Elementary School in years past.

Entering their 14th season of professional hockey in Rockford and sixth as the AHL affiliate of the Chicago Blackhawks, the IceHogs players, coaches, front office staff and mascot, Hammy Hog, made over 175 community appearances during the 2011-12 season. The team also raised $119,445 during the ’11-12 campaign through the IceHogs Charitable Foundation.