Hogs front office nabs pair of awards
Published on May 2, 2005 under International Hockey League 2 (IHL 2)
Rockford IceHogs News Release
Rockford, Ill.- The United Hockey League began the final week for their annual regular season awards by handing out the front office awards, and two of the Rockford IceHogs staff members were on the list. IceHogs General Manager Ryan Washatka earned the UHL's General Manager of the Year and Director of Broadcasting and Media Relations Mike Peck was named Broadcaster of the Year.
Washatka is currently in his fifth season with the Hogs, third as General Manager. The IceHogs are enjoying their most successful campaign in franchise history with Washatka at the helm. The team set a franchise record for wins in a season and more fans past through the turnstiles this season at the Rockford MetroCentre then any other campaign. Washatka joins former Hogs G.M. Kevin Cummings in receiving the General Manager of the Year.
"It's always great to be recognized by your peers and associates within the UHL for some of the things that we have been able to accomplish here in Rockford," said Washatka. "It is an attribute to our staff, coach, players and trainers for their continued professionalism and work ethic that makes Rockford one of the best teams on and off the ice.
"Those are the people that should also be applauded because they have helped me obtain many of the accomplishments and assisted in taking the IceHogs to the next level."
The Topeka, Kansas native was instrumental in bringing in Steve Martinson as head coach during the past off-season to lead the team on the ice. The IceHogs had nearly a 5% increase in attendance as well this season. Rockford, for the first time, has advanced past the first round of the Colonial Cup Playoffs. The UHL's Board of Governors and General Managers selected the General Manager of the Year.
Peck was awarded the UHL's Broadcaster of the Year, the second time an IceHogs broadcaster was given the award. Kevin Bartl was awarded by his peers following the 2000-01 season. The St. Paul, Minnesota native is serving in his fourth year with the IceHogs and third as Director of Broadcasting and Media Relations. The Broadcaster of the Year was selected by the UHL's Public Relations Directors and Broadcaster Directors.
Next Home Game: Wednesday, May 4 vs. Fort Wayne Komets. Game time is 7:05 p.m. Game Three of the best-of-seven semi-final series commences at the Rockford MetroCentre. The series is tied one game apiece. Season Ticket Holders should use Playoff Ticket #4 for the game. For tickets call (815) 968-5222.
International Hockey League 2 Stories from May 2, 2005
- Hogs front office nabs pair of awards - Rockford IceHogs
- UHL announces front office awards - IHL 2
- Hogs split opening weekend of UHL semi-finals - Rockford IceHogs
- Trashers return home Wednesday looking to even the score - Danbury Trashers
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