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Rockford IceHogs

Woollard to help pace Hogs offense in 05-06

July 14, 2005 - International Hockey League 2 (IHL 2)
Rockford IceHogs News Release


Rockford, Ill.- Rockford IceHogs Head Coach and Director of Hockey Operations Steve Martinson announced Thursday that the United Hockey League club has signed veteran winger Chad Woollard for the upcoming 2005-06 campaign. Per club policy, terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

Entering his seventh season, Woollard brings plenty of scoring to Rockford. Last season, the 6-3 winger suited up for the Fort Worth Brahmas (CHL) and scored a career high 40 goals. Woollard also registered 35 assists, helping him lead Fort Worth in goals and scoring (75) for the second time in his career (also in 02-03). His 40 tallies were third most in the Central Hockey League last season.

"He's a power forward that can score goals, skate and hit," said Martinson. "He's got an edge to him as well. He's a gritty guy who can also fight, he's my kind of player."

Woollard spent each of his last five seasons in Fort Worth. The Durham, Ontario native is the Brahmas career leader in games played (290), goals (132), points (264), shots (1,029), game winning goals (15), short-handed goals (5), and is tied for first all-time with 41 power play goals. Woollard also ranks second all-time in assists (132), penalty minutes (686) and hat tricks (5) in Brahmas history.

The winger began his professional career with the Jackson Bandits (ECHL) during the 1999-00 season and after being traded to the Greensboro Generals, he has spent the majority of the next five seasons with the Brahmas. Woollard has received two AHL promotions during his six-year career, including a call-up by the Utah Grizzlies (01-02) and St. John's Maple Leafs (03-04).

"I've been trying to get Chad for three years," said Martinson. "I tried in San Diego and I tried last year. He's still young and this is the type of player that we are looking to attract here in Rockford, the guy who is trying to make it to the next level and who picks Rockford to take him there. He's been recommended to me by other coaches in the AHL. I would love to fill my team with the Chad Woollard's of hockey."

Woollard participated in each of the last three CHL All-Star Games. The high scoring winger was the CHL's leading vote getter for the 2004-05 All-Star game. Woollard also participated in the Dallas Stars (NHL) Developmental Camp in September 2004.

With Woollard, the IceHogs now have three players signed for the 2005-06 season. Earlier this week, defensemen Ryan Carrigan and Steve Pelletier agreed to terms with the Hogs. Woollard is the only veteran of the three.

Season Tickets Now On Sale: Season tickets for the 2005-06 season are now on sale at the IceHogs corporate office or by calling (815) 986-6465. Ticket packages begin at just $95. A seat deposit of only $100 is required to reserve your full or partial season ticket. Great seats are available, so don't miss out on the hottest ticket in town!

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