IceHogs Honor Longtime Off-Ice Official Dani Lewis

The Rockford IceHogs honored off-ice official Dani Lewis during their game against the Milwaukee Admirals Saturday Feb. 1st. The team unveiled a plaque in memory of Lewis and named the off-ice scorer's table after the long-time official.

Lewis was a member of the off-ice official staff for over twenty years. Lewis, who succumbed to breast cancer last March, was an integral part of the IceHogs off-ice official staff and was known for being a strong advocate for women in hockey. Lewis’ family was in attendance for the ceremony and spoke about her love for the team and game of hockey.

“It’s surreal, it's something that shouldn’t have happened, but it did and this is a great remembrance and way to honor her for 20 years of service for UHL and AHL and eventually the NHL too,” Her son, Bradford Lewis said. “I know she would love it.”

Lewis’ love of hockey fueled her 20 plus years of service that saw the IceHogs play in the UHL and AHL. She would eventually make her way to the NHL, working with the Chicago Blackhawks. Dani is most remembered by her constant dedication as a voice for women and minorities in hockey and all across sports.

“She was an advocate for everyone, not just her. She was an advocate for everyone to be a part of this sport,” off-ice official Kiara Meyers said.

With her family in attendance, the IceHogs unveiled the plaque during the second period, honoring Lewis as their "Hometown Hero of the Game."

“It really hit us, heart strings were pulled. We were really overwhelmed. We thank them 100%” her daughter Diana Lewis said.

Dani’s colleagues and family came together for the ceremony and shared some of their favorite stories of the beloved employee. Her family and colleagues became close over the years.

“We’re all family, there is no difference, family is family,” Meyers said.

The rest of the off-ice official staff plan to carry on her legacy and still feel her presence every time they step into the BMO Center and work a game.

“She’s here every game. She was here physically, now she’s here with us in spirit,” off-ice official, Kyle St. John said. “She is here every game and she will be for every game for as long as this building stands."

Fans can visit the plaque honoring Dani Lewis at the top of the steps between sections 216 and 217.