While watching the Chicago Rush in Rockford, Ill., last season, I met several members of the Rockford IceHogs organization. They were all very nice and excited about the upcoming hockey season. I decided to return to check out the IceHogs.

I understand some of you may wonder why I would go to Rockford for hockey (or anything) when there is hockey (and anything else) here in the Chicago area. Obviously, I love hockey, and I also like short road trips, but the main reason might have been the enthusiasm from the IceHogs staffers and other Rockford residents. Everyone was so positive.

Rockford is an easy 90-minute drive west of Chicago. Rockford has a lot to offer. There are several excellent museums, including the Burpee Museum of Natural History, Midway Village and Museum Center and the Discovery Center Museum. There are many lively spots, like Adriatic Live Music Bar and District Bar and Grill. There is even the Oasis Micro Pub. As we head into the holidays, Rockford has an annual Festival of Lights. In the warmer months, there are plenty of outdoor activities, including parks and gardens.

All of that is great, but I went to Rockford for hockey!

The Rockford IceHogs are the top affiliate of the Chicago Blackhawks in the AHL (American Hockey League). Simply translated, the Hawks of tomorrow are the IceHogs of today. Sixteen of the Blackhawks last season had previously played for the IceHogs.

Debuting for the 2007–08 season, the IceHogs called the BMO Harris Bank Center their home from their first game. It is a comfortable arena, with great sightlines, ample parking, excellent food options and a fully stocked merchandise store. The several thousand fans who attend each game love it and keep it loud and lively.

We attended our first game and saw the IceHogs beat their division rival Milwaukee Admirals 2-1 in overtime. After the game, we had the opportunity to talk to IceHogs head coach Ted Dent and a few IceHogs skaters.

Obviously, my schedule will not allow me to attend every game, but I will be attending as many as possible. I enjoyed it that much and look forward to exploring more restaurants and other attractions in Rockford.

— John Wroblewski, online contributor