The Rockford IceHogs are set to host the AHL All-Star Classic on March 7 and 8, 2024, at the BMO Center. This two-night event promises a vibrant display of skills and competition, featuring numerous activities for fans before, during, and after the games. Rockford defenseman Kevin Korchinski, making his second consecutive All-Star appearance, expressed excitement about showcasing the local offerings. “It’s going to be a lot of fun,” he stated.
Currently, the IceHogs are looking to build momentum after a recent 3-1 win against Milwaukee, improving their record to 17-26-2. With the second half of the season approaching, the team aims to secure a postseason spot for the second year in a row. While most players will take a break during the All-Star festivities, the anticipation for the competition is palpable.
Skills Competition and All-Star Challenge Details
The festivities will kick off with the 2024 AHL All-Star Skills Competition on Tuesday at 19:00. This event will feature All-Stars from the Eastern and Western Conference divisions competing in seven skill challenges, including the Inglasco Puck Control Relay and CCM Hardest Shot. Chicago icon Wayne Messmer will perform the “Star-Spangled Banner” to open the event.
On Wednesday, the AHL All-Star Challenge will commence, also starting at 19:00. Four teams will engage in a 3-on-3 round-robin tournament, consisting of six games, each lasting eight minutes. The two teams with the best records will then compete for the championship in a final eight-minute showdown.
Korchinski and forward Nick Lardis both earned spots on the initial rosters, while team captain Brett Seney, leading the IceHogs with 35 points (10 goals and 25 assists), was recently added to the Central Division roster. Korchinski, the AHL All-Star Classic MVP last year, expressed enthusiasm about his teammate’s inclusion, indicating the camaraderie and competitive spirit present within the team.
AHL’s Legacy and Community Engagement
Since its inception in 1936, the AHL has served as the primary developmental league for the National Hockey League, with roughly 90 percent of current NHL players having graduated from its ranks. The All-Star Classic has a notable history as well, with over 94 percent of participants going on to have extended careers in the NHL.
Fans can catch all IceHogs games via AHLTV on FloHockey, accessible on various devices, including smart TVs. Additionally, all AHL games are broadcast in high definition, ensuring an engaging viewing experience.
The AHL Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Ceremony will take place on March 8 at 11:00 at the Coronado Theater, hosted by ESPN SportsCenter anchor Nicole Briscoe. Inductees this year include hockey legends Chris Bourque, Alexandre Giroux, Jim Wiemer, and Wendell Young. The ceremony is free to the public and will also honor Patrick Sharp and Kris Versteeg, both Blackhawks Stanley Cup champions.
After the games, fans are invited to join the Hard Rock Casino-Rockford’s All-Star Classic Postgame parties for a nominal fee. Live music will entertain guests on both nights, with performances from local bands such as Nauti-Nauti and 7th Heaven.
For those looking to participate in community festivities, a free block party will be held at the BMO Center from 16:00 to 17:30 on both nights. This celebratory atmosphere is a testament to the enthusiasm surrounding the AHL All-Star Classic and the Rockford community’s support for its sports teams.
