VILLE POKKA ASSIGNED TO ROCKFORD

Rockford, Ill. - The Chicago Blackhawks announced today that they have assigned defenseman Ville Pokka to the Rockford IceHogs.

Pokka, 23, tied for the team lead, along with Erik Gustafsson, among IceHogs defenders in points with 30 (6G, 24A) during the 2016-17 season. The 6-0, 200 lbs. defenseman is the only IceHogs player to appear in all 76 games during each of the team's last two seasons.

The Tornio, Finland, native was named Rockford’s Best Defenseman during the 2015-16 campaign after setting career highs in goals (10), assists (35) and points (45). In 220 career AHL games spanning across three seasons, all with Rockford, he has tallied 105 points (24G, 81A). The blueliner was named to the AHL’s All-Rookie Team in 2014-15 after posting 8g-22a-30p. He won a silver medal with Finland at the 2016 IIHF World Championship and represented his country at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey.

Single Game Tickets On Sale Now: The Rockford IceHogs return to action at the BMO Harris Bank Center on Saturday, Oct. 14, at 6 p.m. Single game tickets for the 2017-18 season are on sale now and can be purchased through IceHogs.com, by calling (815) 968-5222, or at the BMO Harris Bank Center Box Office. Single-game ticket prices start at $9 and range to $29.