25 Mar 2015

Deadline March 24: Apply to host a River Bandit this season!

By Marco LaNave
The River Bandits will soon be in town for the 2015 season, and we are seeking host families for April to September 2015. Find out more information and submit an application today. More »
25 Mar 2015

BANDITS TAKE 2015 PROMOTIONS TO A NEW LEVEL

By Marco LaNave

DAVENPORT, Iowa (March 19, 2015) - Following a year in which the Quad Cities River Bandits set the all-time franchise record for per-game attendance, the Midwest League club is planning an action-packed promotional schedule - full of new giveaways, fireworks shows, charity events, theme nights and community celebrations - to take family fun and entertainment to a new level at Modern Woodmen Park in 2015.

The marathon of excitement has a running start with the third annual Bandits Race to Home 5K presented by Palmer Chiropractic Clinics at 9 a.m. Saturday, April 11, to benefit the Bandit Scholars Program. Opening weekend continues with the next day's home opener at 1:15 p.m., featuring the annual pregame Nintendo Wii-ster Egg Hunt presented by Video Games ETC!, a Mediacom Magnet Schedule and Pennant Giveaway, and a City of Davenport Day. It only breaks the seal on an entertainment extravaganza to include 15 fireworks shows, 26 giveaway dates - including seven "bobble" giveaways - and more than three dozen unique themes, featuring both new promotions and popular annual events across the 70-game home schedule.

"Our fans are showing unprecedented support for the River Bandits, and they inspire us to bring our promotions to a record level," said River Bandits owner Dave Heller. "They can count on a unique show for every game, and with more fireworks, more giveaways, more theme nights and new promotions packed into this season, our guests will find more fun and the best value ever for affordable, family-friendly entertainment at Modern Woodmen Park."

Regular gate opening will be one hour before first pitch of each game. Below are the highlights of the promotions announced on Thursday:

"Bobbles" celebrate the Quad Cities: A collection of Quad Cities community and baseball figures form the lineup of seven "bobble" giveaways over a span of weekend home games May 23 to Aug. 29. Moline native and 2014 River Bandit Thomas Lindauer's bobblehead presented by Hebrew National (Saturday, May 23) will lead off a schedule to feature 2013 CNN Hero of the Year and East Moline native Chad Pregracke presented by MidAmerican Energy (Saturday, June 13) and longtime Quad-City Times staff member Bill Wundram (Saturday, June 20). River Bandits mascot Rascal will become a Harry Potter wizard-themed gnome presented by the Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center (Saturday, July 11). The August bobblehead trio will include former River Bandit and current St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Lance Lynn presented by Ruhl & Ruhl Insurance, a division of Hub International (Saturday, Aug. 8), the River Bandits' first-ever Bobble Combine on Agriculture Night presented by the Illinois Farm Bureau (Friday, Aug. 28), and Houston Astros outfielder George Springer, who played three games with the River Bandits in August 2014, presented by EGS (Saturday, Aug. 29).

15 Fireworks shows in 2015: Every Friday home game will again have postgame fireworks presented by Smart Toyota of the Quad Cities. This year's Independence Day Celebration will feature three straight nights of fireworks at Modern Woodmen Park. A show will follow each of the River Bandits' home games Thursday, July 2, and Friday, July 3, and the ballpark will be open with free admission for the Red, White and Boom Fireworks show Saturday, July 4. Special fireworks shows are also planned for Christmas in July (Saturday, July 18) and Make-A-Wish Night presented by Olympic Steel (Thursday, Sept. 3).

More Giveaways, Mega Giveaways: From the Opening Day Wii-ster Egg Hunt presented by Video Games ETC.! (Sunday, April 12) until Fan Appreciation Night presented by Bier Stube (Friday, Sept. 4), the River Bandits will have more giveaway prizes than ever. Gate giveaways for fans who arrive early (gates open one hour before first pitch) include Mediacom Magnet Schedules (Sunday, April 12; Monday, April 13; Tuesday, April 14), a Mystery Giveaway (April 25), Military Camo Hats presented by Western Illinois University-Quad Cities (Thursday, April 30), Duffel Bags presented by the Clarion Hotel (Saturday, May 9), Bowling Tickets on Salute to Bowling Night presented by Miller Time Bowling (Wednesday, May 27), Caps on Modern Woodmen Night (Thursday, June 11) and Modern Woodmen Half-Price Nights (Tuesday, July 7, and Thursday, Aug. 20), Pint Glasses (Saturday, Aug. 1), and Team Photos presented by Burlington Trailways (Wednesday, Aug. 5). Fans may also enter for a chance to win fabulous prizes at the annual Mega Mini Fridge Giveaway presented by Budweiser and 7G Distributing (Sunday, June 21), Astros Fantacular Giveaway (Thursday, July 2), and Reynolds Ford Used Car Giveaway (Thursday, Aug. 6). New enter-to-win promotions include the Rita de Mayo Mini Rita Grill Giveaway presented by Bud Light and 7G Distributing (Thursday, May 7), the Mega Blu-Ray/DVD Player Giveaway (Sunday, May 24), the Mega Fitbit Giveaway on Get Fit Night (Sunday, July 19), and the Mega Tablet Giveaway presented by Video Games ETC! on Addicting Digital App-preciation Night (Thursday, Aug. 27).



Entertainers: Among the special appearances by entertainers at the ballpark, the River Bandits will welcome a bagpiper for Irish Heritage Night presented by Bud Light and 7G Distributing (Saturday, April 18), the Ice Queen and Snow Princess on Frozen Princess Day (Sunday, April 19), the "Jersey Boys" from the touring Broadway musical on Jersey Boys Night (Monday, April 20), professional wrestler Sgt. Slaughter (Thursday, May 28), the Fur Circus (Friday, June 19), Batman and Spider-man on Superhero Night (Friday, July 10), and pirates and princesses on Pirates and Princesses Day (Sunday, Aug. 9).

Community Causes: The River Bandits' schedule of charity events and games has also grown. The Bandit Scholars Program fundraisers include the third annual Bandits Race to Home 5K presented by Palmer Chiropractic Clinics (Saturday, April 11), and the second annual River Bandits golf outing (Monday, July 27) at the Pinnacle Country Club in Milan, Ill. The scholarships will be awarded at the game Sunday, June 21. Among the other charitable highlights, the River Bandits will wear flag-themed jerseys for an auction presented by the Iowa National Guard (Friday, May 22), special uniforms for a Boy Scout Jersey Auction (Friday, June 19) and special caps for an Autism Awareness Cap Auction on Autism Awareness Night (Friday, Aug. 7). Fans may submit stories and photos of "Cancer Heroes" to be put in the River Bandits' uniform numbers for the coinciding Superhero Night and Stand Up 2 Cancer Photo Jersey Auction presented by Genesis Health System (Friday, July 10). Great Clips Charity Cuts will be offered at the ballpark at the home finale (Friday, Sept. 4).

Honoring service: The River Bandits and their fans will show appreciation for service men and women throughout the season, beginning with the new Military Mondays, when active or retired military member (and up to three guests per member) can show a military ID and purchase a $1 bleacher ticket at any Monday home game, beginning April 13. The River Bandits will also give away 1,000 Military Camo Caps courtesy of Western Illinois University-Quad Cities on College Night (Thursday, April 30), as well as host Military Appreciation Night presented by the Iowa National Guard (Friday, May 22), a Memorial Day game at 5:15 p.m. (Monday, May 25), AUSA Military Appreciation Night (Thursday, May 28), and Honor Flight Night presented by R.I.A. Federal Credit Union (Wednesday, Aug. 26).

Weekly Deals: The weekly promotions follow a schedule of familiar favorites. Every Sunday is Family Sunday, when River Bandits players will sign autographs on the field, fans can bring dogs to the game for Bark in the Park, and Kids Run the Bases presented by Prairie Farms after the game. Unique Family Sunday events will include the annual Little League Day (Sunday, April 26), Mega Candy Drop (Sunday, June 14), and Father's Day with postgame catch in the outfield (Sunday, June 21). Military Mondays are followed by Dew for Twosdays presented by Pepsi, with free 16-ounce Mountain Dews for fans who bring old Mountain Dew cans to the ballpark, and buy-one-get-one free pricing on all regular tickets. The buy-one-get-one ticket special continues into Wednesdays and Thursdays for IHMVCU members. Each Wednesday, the River Bandits will again Pay Your Bill - up to $100 for two lucky fans each game. Thirst-Day Thursdays offer $2 drink specials, Fridays bring Fireworks presented by Smart Toyota of the Quad Cities, and Fan Appreciation Saturdays feature giveaways, face painters, balloon artists and more. Amusement rides are scheduled to open Thursday, May 7, and will operate for all home games, as well as every Saturday during the Farmer's Market and Saturday evenings. All-you-can-ride passes will be just $10 for games Wednesday, June 10, and Tuesday, Aug. 4. All other Tuesday games after the amusement opening will feature $15 pricing for all-you-can-ride amusements passes.

Thrilling Themes: The additional new theme nights include Neon Night presented by Fitness Xpress (Friday, May 8), Pitch-Perfect Sing-Off with a cappella groups on Ladies Night (Thursday, May 14), Country Western Night presented by the Broken Saddle (Saturday, May 23), Toy Story Day to celebrate the original movie's 20th anniversary (Sunday, May 24), Jurassic Park Night during the week of "Jurassic World" opening in theaters (Wednesday, June 10), Back to the Future Night during the year (2015) anticipated by the movie series that debuted 30 years ago (Saturday, June 20), the "Geek-end" Weekend Nights of Superheroes, Harry Potter and Star Wars (Friday, July 10, to Sunday, July 12), and the Americans with Disabilities Act 25th anniversary celebration (Monday, July 13). Returning theme nights also include Legends of Rock Night (Friday, April 24), Guaranteed Win Night (Wednesday, April 29), Mother's Day Celebration (Saturday, May 9), Vintage Baseball Night (Saturday, June 13), Halloween in July (Thursday, July 2), and Christmas in July (Saturday, July 18).

Schedule includes 15 fireworks shows, 26 giveaway dates, seven bobble items, three dozen theme nights

Group Gatherings: Partners, businesses, schools and groups from across the region will have special dates at the ballpark. Among them are the City of Davenport Nights (Sunday, April 12, and Friday, Aug. 28), Book Buddies Days with 11 a.m. start times (Tuesday, April 28; Tuesday, May 12; Wednesday, May 13), Total Turf & Landscape Night (Thursday, May 7), 18th Street Dairy Queen Sunday (June 14), Hy-Vee Family Sundays (June 14 and July 19), Senior Days and Camp Days with 1 p.m. start times (Monday, June 15, and Monday, July 20), Quad Cities Builders & Remodelers Association and Epic Stone Night (Wednesday, July 1), S.J. Smith Night (Friday, July 3), John Deere Night (Friday, July 31), and Faith and Fellowship Night presented by Chick-fil-A and Moody Radio (Sunday, Aug. 2).

"This promotional schedule was built from our fans' feedback, and we are excited for all that is in store for the Quad Cities this season," said River Bandits General Manager Andrew Chesser. "From our classic highlights - fireworks, giveaways, jersey auctions, ticket and concession deals - to our many new promotions, everyone can find a reason to enjoy the entertainment and make lifelong memories at Modern Woodmen Park this season."

The complete 2015 promotional schedule (all promotions are subject to change) is available at www.riverbandits.com. Ticket packages of 12 to 70 games - which include free parking, merchandise discounts, and guaranteed giveaways - are available by calling (563) 324-3000.

ABOUT THE BANDITS: The River Bandits ownership in 2014 made one of the biggest improvements to Modern Woodmen Park since the ballpark was first built back in 1931! A new Ferris wheel, standing 105 feet over the playing field, opened May 24, Space Camp opened June 20; the new Drop'N Twist debuted in July; and the newly expanded 300-foot long zip line also reopened.



25 Mar 2015

SpringHill Christian Day Camp 2015

By New Anthem

Our mission:  To glorify God by creating life-impacting experiences that enable young people to know Jesus Christ and to grow in their relationship with Him.

Have your kids experience SpringHill Christian Day Camp this summer!

Where:  Heritage Church, Iowa

July 27-31, 2015
2700 Middle Rd
Bettendorf, IA 52722
563.449.5530

Who: Completed grades: K-4
When: Hours: 9am-4pm July 27-31, 2015

How much: Cost: $179

What happens: SpringHill Day Camps include small group Bible teaching, high-energy large group sessions, and adventure activities such as archery, bungee trampoline, camp songs, climbing wall, crafts, & more.

Parent's guide to Day Camp

  • Day Camp activities are all hosted right onsite so your child will never leave the premises
  • SpringHill provides and runs the complete camp experience including fun activities, Bible-based curriculum, and highly-trained camp counselors
  • The week kicks off with Parent Orientation on Monday so you enter the week knowing exactly what to expect

Closing Day on Friday is when you come to see your kids receive individual recognition for their progress at camp

  • If you aren't able to pick up your child at the designated time, we offer an extended Day Camp option for $25 from 4-5:30pm

Registration link:

http://www.springhillcamps.com/experiences/day-camps


23 Mar 2015

Iowa State Fair Parade Applications Available Now

By Lori Chappell

DES MOINES, IA (03/17/2015)(readMedia)-- The Iowa State Fair invites all community and youth groups, special interest clubs and businesses to join the fun and enter the State Fair Parade, Iowa's largest parade and the kick-off to the Fair. The parade is set for Wednesday, August 12. Fair Tour 2015 embarks August 13-23.

Applications are available at www.iowastatefair.org/fair-attractions/parade or by contacting Tonya Cook at 515/262-3111 ext. 215 or tcook@iowastatefair.org. There is a $25 fee for each parade entry. Entries postmarked later than July 1 must include a $15 late fee. No entries will be accepted after July 15.

Entries will be judged and winners will receive plaques in each of the following categories: best use of Fair theme, best specialty group, most creative/original, Governor's Cup (best overall marching band), marching band (by class), best performance, best horses and best drum line.

The parade will begin at 6:15 p.m. in downtown Des Moines. Spectators will be able to watch an estimated 200 floats, animals, vehicles, novelty and performing units. Staging will take place at the State Capitol Complex. Parade entrants will then travel west on Grand Avenue to 13th Street. Dispersion will take place between 13th and 18th Streets.

Highlights of the gala event will be re-broadcast on parade night throughout central Iowa on KDSM FOX 17 beginning at 10 p.m. To be considered for television coverage, the description information on the application must be completed and returned. Due to the length of the parade, it is not possible for all entries to be televised.

"Nothing Compares" to the 2015 Iowa State Fair, August 13-23. The Fairgrounds are located at East 30th and East University Avenue, just 10 minutes east of downtown Des Moines. For more information, call 800/545-FAIR or visit www.iowastatefair.org.

* * *

20 Mar 2015

Genesis Mallard Jersey Auction Raises $17,700 for Genesis Family Connects

By Brian Lavelle
MOLINE, Ill. (March 14, 2015) - The Quad City Mallards tonight teamed with the Genesis Health Services Foundation and KWQC TV6 to raise $17,700 for the Genesis Family Connects program through a game-worn jersey auction after the Mallards' game against the Wichita Thunder at the iWireless Center.    

The special edition fan-designed jerseys worn by the Mallards tonight in their 3-1 win over the Thunder went up for bid in a live auction immediately following the contest.  The jersey of Mallards forward Kevin Baker went for the evening's high bid of $1,100.  

Over the last 20 years, Mallards jersey auctions have raised over $800,000 to benefit Genesis Health System charities.  Tonight's auction is the second of two the Mallards have held this season to raise a total of nearly $37,000 for Genesis Health System charities.  After the Mallards'January 31 meeting with the Brampton Beast, bidding on game-worn "old school" jerseys raised $19,275 for the Genesis Flu-Free QC program.

Genesis Family Connects ensures that within the first 3 weeks of babies leaving the hospital, specially trained Genesis Visiting Nurses will provide in-home health assessments of mothers and newborns, as well as discuss the social conditions affecting the family. Family Connects is open to all families regardless of income, status or number of children in the home.

 

The sweaters worn this evening by the Mallards were designed by Australian Heath Morrison, the winner of the team's fan jersey design contest.  Tonight's auction was conducted by Stenzel Auction Service, a family owned business that has been providing auction and appraisal services for over 50 years.  More information on Stenzel Auction Service and be found at www.stenzelauction.com.

Tickets for all remaining Mallards regular season home games- including tomorrow's contest- are on sale now at the iWireless Center box office, Ticketmaster outlets, ticketmaster.com and Ticketmaster charge-by-phone toll free at 1-800-745-3000.  The box office is open weekdays from10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and game days from 10:00 a.m. until the start of the second period.  Tickets are available for $10, $16, $20 and $28. 

About Genesis Health System

Genesis Health System, its affiliates and partners offer a full continuum of health care services.  Genesis Health System's affiliates include : acute and tertiary hospital care at Genesis Medical Center, Davenport and DeWitt, Iowa and Genesis Medical Center, Silvis and Aledo in Illinois; home health and hospice services through Genesis VNA and Hospice; Genesis Workplace Services, including occupational health, employee assistance and wellness services for employers and their employees; the Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House; senior living facilities offering rehabilitation and long-term care; Genesis Health Group, with more than 170 primary care physicians and specialists; a Family Practice Residency program; Genesis Psychology Associates; three Convenient Care clinics; and Genesis Home Medical Equipment.  Partners include the Genesis Medical Park, Crow Valley, Genesis Imaging Centers and Spring Street Surgical Center, Davenport. Genesis Health System serves a 10-county area of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois.  Genesis also manages Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa, Iowa. For more information, visit www.genesishealth.com.


About the Quad City Mallards
A proud affiliate of the National Hockey League's Minnesota Wild and the American Hockey League's Iowa Wild, the Quad City Mallards are in the midst of their eighteenth season and their first in the ECHL.  One of the winningest teams in all of minor league hockey, the Mallards competed in the United Hockey League from 1995 through 2007; in the International Hockey League in 2009-10; and in the Central Hockey League from 2010 through 2014.  The Mallards' proud history has seen them capture the UHL's Colonial Cup Championship three times (1997, 1998, 2001) and secure that league's Tarry Cup four times (1998, 2000, 2001, 2002) for the best overall regular season record.  In 2001, the Mallards made professional hockey history, recording their sixth consecutive season with 50 or more wins, a feat that has yet to be matched.  The iWireless Center provides a unique environment for hockey and features one-of-a-kind seating areas such as the Nest for groups and functions and the exclusive Drake Club.  For more information on the Quad City Mallards or for Mallards tickets go to www.myqcmallards.net.  Fans can also follow the Mallards via Twitter at twitter.com/myqcmallards and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/qcmallards.


–## Quad City Mallards ##–

17 Mar 2015

The Professional Bull Riders to buck at the iWireless Center BlueDEF Velocity event

By Stephani Nagle
June 13, 2015 - 7 pm
On Sale Friday, March 27 at 10 am

PUEBLO, Colo. - The Professional Bull Riders announced that Moline's iWireless Center will be the host for the BlueDEF Velocity event on June 13.

For one night only, the best up and coming bull riders in the world will face foes nearly 10 times their weight during the most thrilling 8 seconds in sports. Each rider will face one bull in Round 1 and then the Top 10 scoring riders of the night will come back for one more ride in the championship round. At the end of the competition, the rider with the highest combined score will be crowned the champion.

The action begins at 7 p.m. CT.

Tickets, ranging in price from $18 to $68, go on sale Friday, March 27 to the general public and are available at www.ticketmaster.com , the iWireless Center box office, or by phone at 800-745-3000.

The Quad Cities will be the 16th stop of 24 on the 2015 PBR BlueDEF Velocity Tour. The tour kicked off in Clovis, New Mexico at the L.J. Jenkins Invitational on Oct. 31, 2014. As the last event of the BDVT season, the BDVT Finals will take place in Louisville, Kentucky two weeks prior to the PBR World Finals and offer a total purse of $100,000.

The overall winner of the BDVT season will be the rider who earns the most world points at the BDVT level. He will receive $50,000 and qualify to compete at the PBR Built Ford Tough World Finals.

Visit PBR LIVE for details about watching online streams of the 2015 BlueDEF Velocity Tour season.

The PBR's BlueDEF Velocity Tour is a collaboration between the PBR and AEG, the leading sports, entertainment and venue operator in the world, which offers established and up-and-coming bull riders the opportunity to gain the valuable points needed to qualify for the PBR's elite Built Ford Tough Series.

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17 Mar 2015

Mallards Sign Rookie Coldwell

By Brian Lavelle

MOLINE, Ill. (March 12, 2015) - The Quad City Mallards have signed defenseman Austin Coldwell, the Mallards announced today.  

Coldwell, 25, turns professional with the Mallards after completing his senior season at the University of Alaska-Anchorage last weekend.  The 6' 0", 189-pound Vancouver, Washington, native scored four goals and totaled 12 points in 34 games with the Seawolves this year. 

Coldwell produced 14 goals and recorded 50 points in 132 career games at UAA and was twice named to the Western Collegiate Hockey Association All-Academic team.  Last year he helped UAA to the program's first winning season since the Seawolves entered the Western Collegiate Hockey Association in 1993.


Coldwell spent four years in the junior ranks before heading to Anchorage.  He skated with the Bismarck Bobcats and Springfield Jr. Blues of the North American Hockey League before joining United States Hockey League's Des Moines Buccaneers for a two year stint.

17 Mar 2015

Iowan Going for Gold in Golf at State Games of America

By Devon Kleich

LINCOLN, Neb. (March 11, 2015) – Tavender Jones of Story City, Iowa, is looking forward to teeing it up in the state where his passion for golf started. Jones will be one of an estimated 20,000 athletes from across the country competing in more than 60 sports in the 2015 State Games of America (SGA) July 28th - Aug. 2nd in Lincoln, Nebraska.

At the age of 19, Jones is already a highly decorated golfer. While golfing for Roland-Story High School, he won 10 meets during his junior and senior seasons. At the 2014 Iowa Games, he placed among the top five in Adult Individual Stroke Play, earning the opportunity to compete at the 2015 SGA.

Jones' love for golf began while growing up in McCook, Nebraska. "I played at the Heritage Hills Golf Course every day and would spend countless hours there. I played in youth tournaments as much as I could," said Jones.

Since moving to Iowa, he has golfed in the Iowa Games every summer. Jones is excited to take his game to the national level this summer at the 2015 SGA.

More than 600 athletes from 35 different states have registered for the SGA thus far. Registration remains open through May 15. Medalists in the Iowa games from the 2013 summer games through the 2015 winter games are eligible. Entry into a developing sport event is open to all competitors with no qualifying required. Those interested can find a list of developing sports, eligibility, and registration information at www.sga2015.com.

The State Games of America is sanctioned by the National Congress of State Games. The Nebraska Sports Council (NSC) will organize and oversee the event. The NSC's Cornhusker State Games recently celebrated its 30th anniversary and is one of the largest State Games events in the nation.

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17 Mar 2015

Mallards Make Moves: Mosher to AHL, Rookie Baptista Inked

By Brian Lavelle
Moline, Il. (March 11, 2015)  - Quad City Mallards goaltender Evan Mosher has been signed to a professional tryout agreement by the American Hockey League's Lake Erie Monsters while the Mallards have signed forward Mason Baptista to an amateur tryout agreement, the Mallards announced today.  The Mallards also announced defenseman Nicholas Rioux has returned to the team from the AHL's Iowa Wild and that they have signed Jake Reed as an emergency backup goaltender.


Mosher, a 24-year old rookie, has gone 11-12-4 in 29 games with the Mallards this season while posting a 2.81 goals against average, a .913 save percentage and one shutout.  He ranks second among ECHL rookies in save percentage.  Mosher's is the thirteenth AHL call-up for a Mallard this season.

Mosher joined the Mallards after enjoying a standout campaign at Acadia University in Wolfsville, Nova Scotia last season.  Mosher was named to the 2013-14 All-Canadian second team after going 17-5-0 in 22 games to finish tied for first in in the nation in wins in addition to finishing fifth in goals against average (2.12), seventh in minutes played (1358:42) and tenth in save percentage (.919).  The 5' 11", 176-pound Conception Bay, Newfoundland, product backstopped the Axemen to the Atlantic University Sport conference playoff title and a berth in the Canadian Interuniversity Sport University Cup national tournament.   

Mosher went 32-19-0 In 52 career games over three seasons at Acadia while turning in a 2.64 goals against average and a .902 save percentage along with a pair of shutouts.   

Mosher moved on to Acadia after tending goal for all or part of five seasons with the Prince Edward Island Rocket of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League.  In 117 career QMJHL games, Mosher went 50-57-0 while posting a 3.17 goals against average, a .907 save percentage and three shutouts.  In 2010-11, Mosher completed his junior career in style by leading the "Q" in minutes played (3266:38) and total saves (1694) and finishing second in save percentage (.918), eighth in goals against average (2.19), tied for eighth in shutouts (2) and ninth in wins while going 25-22-3 in 57 games. 

 

Baptista, 25, joins the Mallards from Divison III power St. Norbert College, where he completed his collegiate career last weekend.  The 6' 2", 200-pound North York, Ontario, native this season led the Green Knights in points (34) and assists (26) and scored eight goals while playing in each of his team's 28 games.

Over his four seasons at St. Norbert, Baptista scored 29 goals and added 75 assists for 104 points in 117 career games while helping the Green Knights to the national title in 2012 and against last year.  Among Baptista's teammates for his first three collegiate campaigns was Joe Perry, who started this season with the Mallards before being called up to the American Hockey League's Iowa Wild last month.

 

Baptista played four seasons in the Ontario Junior Hockey League with the Vaughan Vipers and Villanova Knights before arriving at St. Norbert.

 

Baptista will wear uniform number nine for the Mallards.

Rioux returns to the Mallards after signing a professional tryout agreement with the Wild yesterday.  He has scored three goals and added 19 assists for 22 points while recording a plus/minus rating of +10 in 53 games with the Mallards this season.  Rioux has played three games for Iowa this year.

Reed, 20, joins the Mallards for the second time this season.  The 6' 2", 190-pound Coal Valley native first served as the team's emergency backup for a January 9 game against Wichita.

10 Mar 2015

MALLARDS WEEKLY UPDATE: MARCH 9, 2015

By Brian Lavelle

THIS WEEK
Wednesday, March 11, 7:05 p.m.

iWireless Center, Moline
Missouri Mavericks vs. Quad City Mallards

Saturday, March 14, 7:05 p.m.
iWireless Center, Moline
Wichita Thunder vs. Quad City Mallards

Sunday, March 15, 4:05 p.m.
iWireless Center, Moline
Missouri Mavericks vs. Quad City Mallards

 

LAST WEEK
Wednesday, March 4
Tulsa 2 Quad City 0

Friday, March 6

Quad City 3 Allen 2

Saturday, March 7

Allen 3 Quad City 2

Quad City
29-23-7, 65 points
2nd place, Central Division
Coach: Terry Ruskowski

Missouri
22-29-6, 50 points
6th place, Central Division
Coach: Richard Matvichuk

Wichita
27-21-8, 62 points

4th place, Central Division
Coach: Kevin McClelland

QUACK TRACKS
Splitsville

The Mallards last weekend split a pair of one-goal home games with the league-leading Allen Americans.  The Mallards defeated Allen 3-2 last Friday before falling by the same score one night later.

Second

The Mallards remain in second place in the ECHL's Central Division.  They are two points ahead of third place Rapid City, three points ahead of fourth place Wichita and five points ahead of fifth place Tulsa.  The top four teams in the division will qualify for the Kelly Cup playoffs.

 

Home Sweet Home

The Mallards have gone 1-2-1 over the first four games of an eight game homestand- their longest of the season.  Overall, the have won one of their last five home games (1-3-1).  Last Friday's victory halted a four-game (0-3-1) home winless streak.

Late Show
Kevin Baker scored the winning goal with just 12.8 seconds left in last Friday's game against Allen. 

Blanked

Last Wednesday night's 2-0 loss at the hands of the Oilers marked the fourth time the Mallards have been shut out this season.  This is the first time the Mallards have been blanked four times in a season since the 2010-11 campaign.  The Mallards last went goalless in more than four games in the same season when they were whitewashed six times during the 2005-06 United Hockey League campaign.

Hot Ticket
A total of 11,726 fans- 6,310 Friday night and 5,416 Saturday evening- watched the Mallards' games against the Americans last weekend, the best combined attendance for Mallard home games on consecutive nights this season.

Red Light District
The Mallards allowed three goals or fewer in their last six games and total of just 11 (non-shootout) goals during that stretch.  The Mallards rank fifth in the ECHL in goals against per game (2.6).  After scoring only five times in their three games last week, they now rank eighteenth in goals scored per game (2.9).

Special Teams

The Mallards have failed to convert their last 14 power plays.  The Mallards are tenth in the ECHL on the man advantage (17.3 percent).  They are tied for fifth in the league in penalty killing (85.2 percent).

Baked
Baker scored or assisted on each of the Mallards' five goals last weekend against Allen.  Baker scored twice- the third period game tier as well as the late winner- and picked up an assist last Friday and had a goal and an assist one night later.  Baker's last seven overall points (three goals and four assists) have come against Allen, dating back to a 4-2 loss to the Americans on February 25 during which he assisted on both Mallard goals.  Baker has had a hand in each of the Mallards' last eight goals (four goals and four assists) against Allen- a stretch that began when he scored the third period game winner in the Mallards' 2-1 victory on February 16 at the Allen Event Center- and in ten of the 11 goals the Flock scored in its five-game season series against the Americans.  He finished the season series as the top scorer (6-4-10) on either club.

Full Nelson
Logan Nelson has scored five goals- and added an assist- in his last five games and scored seven times in his last eight games.  He has totaled nine points (seven goals and two assists) in his last nine games.

Super Mario
With an assist last Saturday night, Mario Lamoureux reached 60 points for the second time in his three-year career.  Lamoureux ranks fourth in the ECHL in assists (43) and is tied for eighth in points.  Lamoureux is five points shy of the career high of 65 he set as a rookie with the Ontario Reign in 2013-13.

Between the Pipes
Parker Milner has given up a total of six goals while winning three of his last four starts.  Milner ranks fourth in the ECHL in goals against average (2.27) and save percentage (.921).

Milestones
Terry Ruskowski is closing in on 100 wins as Mallards coach.  Ruskowski has gone 96-72-23 since taking over behind the Quad City bench for the 2012-13 season.

Head to Head
The Mallards have gone 5-4-3 against the Mavericks this year and have posted a 2-1-2 home record against the Mavs.  All-time, the Mallards have turned in a 21-23-4 overall record against the Mavericks and have gone 9-10-2 on home ice against Missouri... The Mallards have gone 4-5-0 against the Thunder this season and 2-3-0 at home against Wichita.  All-time, the Mallards have gone 10-17-1 against the Thunder and 5-8-1 at the iWireless Center.

Ins and Outs
The Mallards sent forward Todd Fiddler to the Ontario Reign last Saturday to complete the trade that brought Mario Lamoureux to the Mallards in exchange for future considerations in October...Antti Pusa is on 21-day injured reserve retroactive to February 7... Pusa (out 15 games) and Johnny Rogic (21 games) have both been sidelined by upper body injuries.

UPCOMING HOME GAMES
Wednesday, March 11, 7:05 p.m.- Mallards vs. Missouri Mavericks

Four Tickets for $20; T.G.I. Friday's Postgame Party
Fans can get four tickets for just $20 for each Wednesday home game.  After Wednesday's game fans can join the Mallards at T.G.I. Friday's on River Drive in Moline for a postgame party.

Saturday, March 14, 7:05 p.m.- Mallards vs. Wichita Thunder

Genesis Fan-Designed Game Worn Jersey Auction
The Mallards will wear special edition fan-designed jerseys in this Saturday night's game and after the game those jerseys will go up for bid in a live auction to benefit the Genesis Health Services Foundation.  The sweaters were created by Heath Morrison, the winner of the team's fan jersey design contest. 

Sunday, March 15, 4:05 p.m.- Mallards vs. Missouri Mavericks

Kids Day; Skate with the Mallards
Children 12 and under can get tickets for just $5 for every Mallards Sunday home game.  After Sunday's game fans can bring their skates and join the Mallards on the ice for a post-game skate.

IN THE COMMUNITY
Tuesday, March 10, 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.
United Way
Mallards players will team with the United Way to make their monthly visit to five area elementary schools to encourage and academic achievement and improved attendance among students.

Thursday, March 12, 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Tip-A-Mallard
Tip-A-Mallard returns to the Bier Stube in Moline and LeClaire Thursday from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.  Mallards players will wait tables with all tips going to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Friday, March 13, 1:00 p.m.
Winola Elementary School Jump Rope for Heart
Mascot Mo Mallard will help kick off the American Heart Association Jump Rope for Heart at Winola Elementary School in Viola, Illinois, Friday at 1:00 p.m.  Students who raise more than $50 in donations will receive a free ticket to the Mallards' Saturday, April 11 regular season finale against the Tulsa Oilers.

Friday, March 13, 5:00 to 6:00 p.m.
Disc Replay
Fans can meet Mallards players at Disc Replay in the North Park Mall Friday.  Mallards will be signing autographs between 5:00 and 6:00 p.m. at Disc Replay.

ON THE AIR
Fox Sports Radio 1230 is the radio home of Mallards Hockey Presented by Genesis Power Sports Performance.  Mallards games broadcast on AM 1230 also stream live online at www.wfxn.net.  A limited number of Mallards games will not air on Fox Sports Radio 1230 due to conflicts with University of Illinois basketball and football and Green Bay Packer football.  ECHL-TV pay-per-view video webcasts and free audio webcasts of all Mallards games are also available at myqcmallards.net.

TICKETS
Single Game Tickets
Single game tickets for all Mallards regular season contests are now available.  Fans can contact the Mallards at (309) 277-1364 or info@myqcmallards.com for more information about tickets.  Single game tickets are also available at the iWireless Center box office, at Ticketmaster outlets, through www.ticketmaster.com or through Ticketmaster charge-by-phone toll free.  The box office is open weekdays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and on game days from 10:00 a.m. until the start of the second period.

Group Tickets
Groups of at least ten receive savings off the walk-up price and a host of group benefits.  Mallards group tickets are a great fit for youth organizations, friends, co-workers, family groups, religious groups, school functions and business events.  For more group ticket information, fans can contact the Mallards at (309) 277-1364 or info@myqcmallards.com.

-### Quad City Mallards ### -

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