Last Saturday, despite the inclement weather, my friend Jason Fleigel and I made the trek to Rockford to join 4,000 other fans at the BMO Hrris Center to watch an exciting hockey game. Much like our last visit to Rockford, we saw the Rockford IceHogs play their Midwest Division rival Milwaukee Admirals.
After our last trip to Rockford and my last story, many people asked me why I would go to Rockford when there is plenty of hockey action in Chicago. As I explained in my last story, Rockford is a beautiful area, with plenty to offer in addition to the IceHogs. I am not going to IceHogs games instead of Chicago hockey games. I am going in addition to my local teams. There is no such thing as too much great hockey.
The IceHogs present a great hockey experience. The arena offers fantastic service, great sightlines, many tasty food choices and exciting hockey. Also, the IceHogs of today are the Chicago BlackHawks of tomorrow. In fact, since our last game a few weeks ago, Jeremy Morin and Kent Simpson both logged in time with the Hawks. It's like getting sneak previews of the future at the United Center.
The IceHogs jumped to a 1-0 lead, but the Admirals scored three unanswered goals and left with a 3-1 win. IceHogs goalie Simpson played a solid game, but the Admirals were just the better team this night. The IceHogs hurt themselves with some ill-timed penalties while on the powerplay. It was just one of those nights.
After the game, we talked to Coach Ted Dent and center Alex Broadhurst and center Brandon Pirri. Each should be commended for facing the media like true professionals. They stood tall and answered all of the questions asked. I am sure they would have rather just been on their way out after the tough game, but they handled it all well.
There are several more games between these two opponents. We haven't locked in our next game, but I wouldn't mind seeing the IceHogs get revenge on the Admirals. Then again, a different foe would be fun, too. It's all good in Rockford with the IceHogs.
Prior to the game, we dined at Stone Eagle. Jason recommended it from his experience at their location in Hoffman Estates. Jason was right (as usual). The food was outstanding. We went simple and had their brick oven pizza, but there are so many other options we want to try. Again, just more reasons to return to Rockford.
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