AHL Rockford IceHogs

Land of Lincoln Produces Future IceHogs

Published on August 21, 2002 under American Hockey League (AHL)
Rockford IceHogs News Release


Rockford, Ill.-The Rockford IceHogs, proud members of the United Hockey League, have agreed to contract terms with rookie centerman Steve Cygan (CY-gin) and rookie defenseman Joe Statkus (STAT-kus) for the 2002-03 season. Per club policy, terms of the contracts were not disclosed.

Including Cygan and Statkus, the IceHogs have 11 players signed for what is expected to be a Blockbuster Hockey season. Also starring on the ice for the IceHogs in 2002-03 will be centers Jeff Antonovich and Matt Loen, wingers Steve Dumonski and Oak Hewer, defensemen Alex Alexeev, Jeff DaCosta, Kenzie Homer and Jeremy Rebek, and goaltender Brant Nicklin.

Cygan, 25, is preparing for his first professional campaign after completing a record-setting career at the University of Alaska-Anchorage. The 5-foot-6, 165-pound pivotman finished third on the Seawolves in goals (9-tied), assists (17) and points (26) during the 2001-02 season, his fourth in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association. Cygan, who was born in Chicago and resides in Spring Grove, Ill., was one of only four Seawolf players to suit up for every game last season. In fact, the pint-sized power skater never missed a game during his college career, and his efforts left him tied for the all-time Alaska-Anchorage record for games played with 143. Cygan recorded 44 goals, 46 assists and 90 points in four collegiate seasons.

"Steve is a dynamic player and a potential fan favorite," said Scott Bell, the IceHogs head coach and director of hockey operations. "He might've been the fastest college player in the country last year, and he'll make an immediate impact with our club. I feel he has what it takes to be one of the top rookies in our league."

Statkus, 24, is the fourth player from last year's club to re-sign with the IceHogs. The 6-foot-1, 205-pound blueliner first signed with the IceHogs in January after wrapping up his Central Collegiate Hockey Association career at Bowling Green State University. Statkus, who calls Oak Lawn, Ill. home, totaled three assists and 50 penalty minutes in 24 games with the IceHogs last season. His penalty minutes also included six majors. Statkus recorded three assists and 64 penalty minutes in 78 career games with the Falcons.

"Joe is a seasoned rookie and a great team guy," said Bell. "We're really excited to have him back. He was one of the major reasons why we had such a strong finish last year. He's a tough kid and he's solid defensively."

Season ticket packages for the 2002-03 IceHogs are now available, starting at just $98. Contact the IceHogs office at (815) 986-6465 for more details. Season ticket information can also be found at www.icehogs.com. Blockbuster Hockey featuring the 2002-03 IceHogs premieres at the Rockford MetroCentre against the Fort Wayne Komets on Fri., Oct. 11.

Rockford IceHogs...It's Blockbuster Hockey!

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American Hockey League Stories from August 21, 2002


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