28 Mar 2014

BUDWEISER SIGNS NAMING RIGHTS DEAL FOR SKY DECK AT MODERN WOODMEN PARK

By Marco LaNave

Newly-named Budweiser Champions Club has unique view with year-round versatility

DAVENPORT, Iowa (March 27, 2014) - An award-winning room in America's Best Minor League Ballpark has a new name. The Budweiser Champions Club gained its latest moniker when Budweiser and the River Bandits announced a naming rights partnership at a press conference Thursday in the Budweiser Champions Club, already one of the most popular areas for both baseball fans and year-round event patrons of Modern Woodmen Park.

The biggest highlight of a series of suite-level renovations that earned recognition last fall from Ballpark Digest as the Best Ballpark Improvement in America under $1 million, the new Budweiser Champions Club is located at the far end of the suite level down the left-field line.

"On behalf of 7G and all of its employees, it is our honor and pleasure to work with the Quad Cities River Bandits this season. The addition of the new Budweiser Champions Club is exciting and provides an experience for watching ball games that is second to none," said 7G Distributing Sales Support Manager Tim Hayes. "We invite everyone to come out and help us cheer on the River Bandits and watch for our promotions throughout the summer and have fun at the ballpark all summer long!"

In addition to the Budweiser Champions Club naming rights, 7G Distributing will sponsor a Mega Mini Fridge Giveaway on Sunday, June 15, at the River Bandits 1:15 p.m. Father's Day home game. Nine mini fridges will go to nine lucky fans - one for every inning.

"We are thrilled to partner with Budweiser to re-introduce the Budweiser Champions Club and share our vision of turning Modern Woodmen Park into a year-round, multi-purpose venue that is much bigger than baseball," said River Bandits co-owner Dave Heller. "The Budweiser Champions Club will be a year-round entertainment venue that will host a wide range of events, from weddings to corporate board meetings to family reunions to receptions to charitable events, and our new partnership with Budweiser and the great folks at 7G Distributors helps ensure that this room will always be one of the premier venue destinations in the Quad Cities."

Replacing what had been an open-air, concrete patio, the Budweiser Champions Club boasts three sides of gorgeous glass windows, bringing the feel of being outdoors while still being completely enclosed. Four glass garage doors overlook the picturesque scene of Modern Woodmen Park and the Centennial Bridge stretching across the Mississippi River. On the other side is a spectacular view of downtown Davenport. The Budweiser Champions Club also has a center partition that can create two separate areas for breakout sessions or smaller meeting spaces. The space can accommodate up to 250 guests for a game and is used year-round for dozens of special events, including wedding ceremonies, receptions, rehearsal dinners, birthdays, corporate meetings and luncheons.

UP NEXT: Opening Day is April 3, so lock in your seats now to see the defending Midwest League Champions in 2014! Single-game tickets are available online atwww.riverbandits.com. To order any of the ticket plans - with new lower prices - call the River Bandits box office at 563-324-3000. Season ticket and mini-plan packages start at just seven games and begin at less than $40. Call a River Bandits account representative today to choose your seats and get the details of our various mini-plan packages.

ABOUT THE BANDITS: Having just been named Ballpark Digest's winner of Best Ballpark Improvement in America under $1 million, the River Bandits ownership is making one of the biggest improvements to Modern Woodmen Park since the ballpark was first built back in 1931! A new Ferris wheel, standing 110 feet over the playing field, is opening this spring, along with a carousel, a new ride called a "Drop and Twist," an expanded 300-foot long zip line, and many other new games and attractions. In 2013, the team unveiled a new 220-foot long dual zip line, a rock climbing wall, and a number of new bounce houses. The team's major league affiliate, the Houston Astros, just saw all six of its affiliates reach the playoffs - the first time in a decade any MLB team can claim such success. The River Bandits were one of three affiliates to reach the championship round and one of two to win their league championship.

*****



28 Mar 2014

Mallards Overcome Americans 2-1

By Brian Lavelle

ALLEN, Texas (March 26, 2014) - Mike Monfredo scored the game winning power play goal with three minutes and five seconds left in the third period and Thomas Heemskerk made 34 saves as the Quad City Mallards defeated the host Allen Americans 2-1 Wednesday night.  With the victory, the fifth place Mallards (30-23-10, 70 points) not only halted their own three game losing streak but also ended the third place Americans' (38-21-5, 81 points) four game winning streak and eight game regulation unbeaten streak.

Monfredo snapped a 1-1 tie with a one timer from the right wing circle late in the third after Jamie Schaafsma had backhanded home a power play equalizer for the Americans at 11:52 of the final frame.

The Mallards first took the lead when Matt Duffy- who also assisted on Monfredo's goal- blasted a one timer from the high slot at 7:03 of the second period.

Heemskerk was at his busiest in the third period, stopping 15 Allen shots to set the stage for Monfredo's late heroics.

  

The Mallards return to action Friday night on the road against the St. Charles Chill.  The Mallards' next home game is their regular season finale Sunday at 4:05 p.m. against the Missouri Mavericks.  Sunday is Fan Appreciation Day at the iWireless Center.  Fans can bring their skates to next Sunday's game and skate with the Mallards after that tilt.  In addition, all fans in attendance will receive a coupon good for a free bag of popcorn at iWireless Center concession stands.   

Tickets for Sunday's game can be purchased in person at the iWireless Center box office, online atticketmaster.com, at Ticketmaster outlets or through Ticketmaster charge-by-phone toll free at 1-800-745-3000.  The ticket 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. 

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 seventeenth season their fourth in the Central Hockey League.  One of the winningest teams in all of minor league hockey, the Mallards competed in the United Hockey League from 1995 through 2007 and in the International Hockey League in 2009-10.  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/quadcitymallards.

-### Quad City Mallards ### -

26 Mar 2014

MALLARDS, IWIRELESS CENTER EXTEND LEASE AGREEMENT

By Brian Lavelle
MOLINE, Ill. (March 26, 2014) - The Quad City Mallards and the iWireless Center have agreed to a three year lease extension, the Mallards announced today.

"We are thrilled to extend our lease agreement with the iWireless Center for three additional years and continue what has developed into a true partnership with iWireless Center executive director Scott Mullen and his staff," said Jordan Melville, director of QCM Holdings, the Mallards' ownership group.  "All indicators are trending positively and we look forward to continuing to provide the Quad Cities with an affordable form of entertainment and team of which they can be proud."

In the first two seasons of the partnership between the iWireless Center and QCM Holdings, the Mallards' average attendance has increased by nearly 800 fans per game while the club has enjoyed a revenue increase of better than 50 percent.

"The turnaround has been amazing and it is fantastic to see how far the team has come both in the front office and on the ice," said Mullen.  "Both Mallards president Bob McNamara and coach Terry Ruskowski have brought a noticeably higher level of experience and professionalism to the team over these past couple of years."

"It's also refreshing to have such a solid ownership group in place here and see their commitment to the Quad Cities," Mullen continued.  "Having previously run the entire Central Hockey League, they obviously understand this business and what it takes to succeed.  The entire organization has really done an unbelievable job.  They have laid the foundation for success and the future of hockey here looks extremely bright."

The Mallards are approaching the conclusion of their seventeenth season in the Quad Cities and their fourth CHL campaign.  QCM Holdings took over ownership of the club in October of 2012.

"As we have seen interest in the team increase over the past 18 months, it is obvious this is a strong hockey market steeped in a winning tradition, established in the early days of the Mallards," said McNamara.  "It is our goal to continue this tradition and we look forward to bringing a championship back to the Quad Cities while continuing to build the brand."

The Mallards play their regular season finale Sunday at 4:05 p.m. against the Missouri Mavericks.  Sunday is Fan Appreciation Day at the iWireless Center featuring prize giveaways, a postgame skate with the Mallards, free popcorn and a game worn jersey auction.

Tickets for Sunday's game can be purchased in person at the iWireless Center box office, online at ticketmaster.com, at Ticketmaster outlets or through Ticketmaster charge-by-phone toll free at 1-800-745-3000.  The ticket 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.

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 seventeenth season their fourth in the Central Hockey League.  One of the winningest teams in all of minor league hockey, the Mallards competed in the United Hockey League from 1995 through 2007 and in the International Hockey League in 2009-10.  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/quadcitymallards.

-### Quad City Mallards ### -

26 Mar 2014

Round-the-Clock Volunteers Needed for National Junior High Finals Rodeo

By Dr. Jeffrey Bassman

DES MOINES, IA - The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau and the National High School Rodeo Association are seeking 200 volunteers for the National Junior High Finals Rodeo Championships, June 22-28 at the Iowa State Fairgrounds.

Volunteers are needed for 24-hour check-in for both contestants and livestock starting Thursday, June 19 through Sunday, June 22. Shifts are available in four-hour increments. A brief training will be provided for all volunteers.

"Families arrive at all hours to the grounds, and aren't permitted to set up camp or unload livestock until a thorough safety and health check has been performed," says James Higginbotham, Executive Director of the National High School Rodeo Association, the parent organization of the National Junior High Finals Rodeo. "Volunteer support is vital. Check-in sets the pace for a smooth-running event."

"We're proud to host this group in Des Moines for the first time," says Greg Edwards, President and CEO of the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau. "Our community's support is needed as volunteers to provide a welcoming first impression of our city to contestants and their families."

The Championships will include 1,100 Junior High contestants from 42 states, 5 Canadian provinces and Australia. More than 35,000 spectators are expected. The contestants, ages 15 and under, will compete across 11 different events?from barrel racing and bull riding to goat tying and chute dogging. 2014 is the first time the Championship's will be held outside of Gallup, New Mexico since the event's inception in 2005.

To sign up for a volunteer shift for the 2014 National Junior High Finals Rodeo Championships in Des Moines, visit catchdesmoines.com/rodeo.

The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to promote Greater Des Moines as a fun, vibrant and affordable destination statewide, nationally and internationally. Our focus increases visitors to our community through meetings, conventions, sports events, leisure travel, and group tours, thereby contributing to the local economy.  
26 Mar 2014

Mallards' Rioux Called Up to AHL's Iowa Wild

By Rick Martin
MOLINE, Ill. (March 24, 2014) - Quad City Mallards defenseman Nicholas Rioux has joined the American Hockey League's Iowa Wild on a professional tryout agreement, the Mallards announced today.

This marks the third time this season, Rioux, 27, has been called up to Iowa.  The 6' 1", 205-pound Riviere-du-Loup, Quebec native played six games over two stints in January with the Wild.  Rioux also took part in Iowa's preseason training camp.

Rioux, who has scored five goals for the Mallards this season, ranks eighth among Central Hockey League defensemen in assists (25) and is tied for tenth among CHL blue liners in points (30).  He has posted a plus/minus rating of +8 in 55 games with the Mallards.  Rioux has also been named one of five finalists for the CHL's Most Outstanding Defenseman award.

Last year, Rioux scored seven goals and registered 27 points with a plus/minus of +3 for the CHL's Bloomington Blaze.  The durable Rioux played in each of the Blaze's 66 regular season games last season and missed just a single game over his first two professional campaigns.

Rioux first played under Mallards coach and general manager Terry Ruskowski as a rookie with the CHL's Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees in 2011-12.  Rioux scored five times, produced 21 points and turned in a plus/minus of +5 in 65 games with the Killer Bees.

Rioux turned pro after a three-year college career at St. Cloud State during which he totaled three goals and four assists in 26 games.  Rioux played two seasons of junior hockey in the British Columbia League- with the Quesnel Millionaires and Prince George Spruce Kings- before heading to St. Cloud.

The Mallards next play Wednesday night on the road against the Allen Americans.  The Mallards' next home game is their regular season finale next Sunday, March 30, at 4:05 p.m. against the Missouri Mavericks.  Next Sunday is Fan Appreciation Day at the iWireless Center.  Fans can bring their skates to next Sunday's game and skate with the Mallards after that tilt.  In addition, all fans in attendance will receive a coupon good for a free bag of popcorn at iWireless Center concession stands.

Tickets for next Sunday's game can be purchased in person at the iWireless Center box office, online at ticketmaster.com, at Ticketmaster outlets or through Ticketmaster charge-by-phone toll free at 1-800-745-3000.  The ticket 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.

26 Mar 2014

MALLARDS' RIMMER NAMED TO CHL ALL-ROOKIE TEAM

By Brian Lavelle
MOLINE, Ill. (March 24, 2014) - Quad City Mallards goaltender Ty Rimmer has been named to the Central Hockey League all-rookie team, the Mallards announced today in conjunction with the CHL.

Rimmer, 21, has gone 18-14-5 in 39 games this season and is tied for third in the league in shutouts (3), is tied for sixth in save percentage (.906) and ranks seventh in goals against average (2.84) and wins.  The 6' 1", 170-pound Edmonton native is also a finalist for the CHL's Most Outstanding Goaltender award.

Rimmer was unanimously voted to the all-rookie team by the CHL's ten head coaches.  He is joined on the all-rookie squad by forwards Vincent Arseneau (Denver), Alex Lavoie (Allen) and Adam Pleskach (Tulsa) and defensemen Lee Moffie (Denver) and Henrik Odegaard (Missouri).

Rimmer played three American Hockey League games for the Oklahoma City Barons in December, going 1-0-1 with a 2.65 goals against average and a .930 save percentage during his AHL call-up.  Rimmer was also named CHL Rookie of the Month for December.

In preseason, Rimmer participated in not only the Barons' training camp but also the camp of the National Hockey League's Edmonton Oilers. 

Rimmer got his first taste of professional hockey last spring when he played one game for the AHL's Manchester Monarchs after completing his junior career with the Lethbridge Hurricanes of the Western Hockey League.  Rimmer last season led the WHL in minutes played (3,836) and total saves (2,106) while posting 3.19 goals against average, a .912 save percentage, a record of 24-30-10 and one shutout in 65 games with the Hurricanes.

The 2011-12 campaign was especially successful for Rimmer, who earned WHL first team all-star honors after leading the league in goals against average (2.43) and save percentage (.922), finishing tied for first in shutouts (5) and finishing tied for eighth in wins while going 31-12-1 in 46 games for the Tri-City Americans.  His standout efforts helped propel the Americans to the United States Division title.

Over three-plus Western League seasons- during which he also played for the Brandon Wheat Kings and Prince George Cougars in addition to the Americans and Hurricanes- Rimmer went 74-65-14 in 159 games and turned in a 3.01 goals against average, a .910 save percentage and ten shutouts. Before becoming a WHL workhorse, Rimmer spent parts of two seasons in the Alberta Junior Hockey League with the St. Albert Steel and Bonnyville Pontiacs.

The Mallards next play Wednesday night on the road against the Allen Americans.  The Mallards' next home game is their regular season finale next Sunday, March 30, at 4:05 p.m. against the Missouri Mavericks.  Next Sunday is Fan Appreciation Day at the iWireless Center.  Fans can bring their skates to next Sunday's game and skate with the Mallards after that tilt.  In addition, all fans in attendance will receive a coupon good for a free bag of popcorn at iWireless Center concession stands.

Tickets for next Sunday's game can be purchased in person at the iWireless Center box office, online at ticketmaster.com, at Ticketmaster outlets or through Ticketmaster charge-by-phone toll free at 1-800-745-3000.  The ticket 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.

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 seventeenth season their fourth in the Central Hockey League.  One of the winningest teams in all of minor league hockey, the Mallards competed in the United Hockey League from 1995 through 2007 and in the International Hockey League in 2009-10.  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/quadcitymallards.

-### Quad City Mallards ### -

26 Mar 2014

MALLARDS FALL TO MAVERICKS BUT CLINCH PLAYOFF BERTH

By Brian Lavelle
MOLINE, Ill. (March 22, 2014) - Five different Missouri Mavericks scored and Shane Owen made 25 saves as the Mavericks claimed a 5-2 victory over the host Quad City Mallards in front of 5,802 fans Saturday night, though the Mallards did clinch a playoff berth despite suffering a second loss to Missouri in as many evenings.  The fifth place Mallards (29-22-10, 68 points)  locked up a postseason spot thanks to the Tulsa Oilers' win over the Wichita Thunder Saturday evening- a result that left the ninth place Thunder mathematically incapable of catching the Mallards in the Central Hockey League standings

Dave Pszenyczny gave the Mavericks a lead they would never relinquish by putting the puck into a gaping net to open the scoring at 5:19 of the first period.  Tyler Currier doubled the margin from a sharp angle at 11:34 of the first.  The Mallards rebounded when Vladimir Nikiforov streaked down the slot to cut the gap to 2-1 at 14:49 of the opening frame.

Just as they did in the first, the Mavericks would outscore the Mallards 2-1 in the second period.  Henrik Odegaard's tip-in made it 3-1 just ninety seconds into the second.  The Mavericks were shorthanded when Anders Franzon- who also had an assist- scored the fourth Missouri goal from point blank range at the 6:50 mark.  With just 12.8 seconds left in the second, the Mallards battled back to within two goals with Gabriel Levesque's backhander from the slot.

Evan Vossen weaved into the Mallard goalmouth and backhanded the fifth Maverick goal in under the crossbar at 6:03 of the third period.

The Mallards, who have qualified for the playoffs for the second year in a row, will begin the best-of-seven opening round in early April on a date to be announced against an opponent yet to be determined.

The Mallards and Mavericks meet again tomorrow in Independence, Missouri.  The Mallards next return home when they play their final regular season game on Sunday, March 30 at 4:05 p.m. against the Mavericks.  March 30 is Fan Appreciation Day at the iWireless Center.  Fans can bring their skates to the March 30 game and skate with the Mallards after that tilt.  In addition, all fans in attendance will receive a coupon good for a free bag of popcorn at iWireless Center concession stands.

Tickets for the March 30 game can be purchased in person at the iWireless Center box office, online at ticketmaster.com, at Ticketmaster outlets or through Ticketmaster charge-by-phone toll free at 1-800-745-3000.  The ticket 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.

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 seventeenth season their fourth in the Central Hockey League.  One of the winningest teams in all of minor league hockey, the Mallards competed in the United Hockey League from 1995 through 2007 and in the International Hockey League in 2009-10.  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/quadcitymallards.

-### Quad City Mallards ### -

26 Mar 2014

Spring Fun with Davenport Parks and Recreation

By Kenneth Asta
MOTHER SON FORMAL
What a better way to welcome in Spring than at our Mother/Son Formal!  Mom, a special evening awaits you and your special guy at the River Center with dancing, dinner and fun!
Sunday, April 6
5:30pm - 8:00pm
Davenport Residents: $19.20
Non-residents: $24.00
Click here to sign up online and print your tickets at home, (then click under "Special Events"), or visit the River's Edge, 700 W River Drive, downtown Davenport.

2014 Spring / Summer Catalog

Registration for Spring and Summer programs are now open!  Click here to browse our online catalog. You can also register online as well!

 

Prefer a hard copy of our catalog?
Catalogs are now available at the River's Edge and at other Parks and Recreation facilities like Vander Veer, Junior Theater and our golf courses.

 

There are programs for all interests and all ages. Take a look at what we offer:

  • Adaptive & Inclusive Programs
  • Adult Programs
  • Aquatics (Swim Lessons & Sailing)
  • Summer Camps
  • Nature and Garden
  • Junior Theatre
  • School of Dance
  • Seniors
  • Ice Sports
  • Youth & Adult Sports
  • Wellness Programs
VANDER VEER SPRING FLOWER DISPLAY

Lift your spirits at Vander Veer Conservatory. Our spring flowers are in full bloom. Open 10am - 4pm, Tuesday through Sunday (Closed Monday). Admission is free on Tuesdays, and only $1.00 the rest of the week.

215 West Central Park in Davenport.

 

While there, check out our great park store for starter plants, gardening tools and great gifts!

 

21 Mar 2014

Mallards Overcome Chill

By Brian Lavelle


MOLINE, Ill. (March 19, 2014) - Matt Boyd broke a 1-1 tie early in the third period, Mike Stinziani scored once and added an assist and Ty Rimmer made 26 saves as the host Quad City Mallards defeated the St. Charles Chill 4-1 Wednesday night.  With the win, the Mallards (29-20-10, 68 points) climbed to fifth place and halted a four game winless streak while the defeat extended the tenth place Chill's (11-43-6, 28 points) losing streak to four games.

Boyd scored the first of three unanswered Mallard third period goals from the doorstep at 1:35 of the final frame.  Mike Monfredo's point blank backhander extended the gap to 3-1 at 15:46.  Stinziani capped off the win by scoring an empty net goal with just 11 seconds remaining.

The Mallards had first moved in front when Justin Fox opened the scoring at 4:54 of the first period with a wrist shot the left wing circle.  The Chill's John Snowden broke into the slot to tie the score at one at 17:39 of the first.

The Mallards next play at home Saturday night at 7:05 p.m. against the Missouri Mavericks.  Saturday is John Deere Community Night.  Courtesy of John Deere 2,000 tickets to Saturday evening's game are available for just $5 at the iWireless Center box office or at ticketmaster.com

Tickets for Saturday night's game and all Mallards regular season home games can also be purchased at Ticketmaster outlets or through Ticketmaster charge-by-phone toll free at 1-800-745-3000.  The ticket 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.
21 Mar 2014

Ruskowski, Mallards Among CHL's Best of the Best

By Rick Martin

Ruskowski Voted Best Coach, Mallards Hardest Working Team

 

Nagy Recognized as Most Underrated

 

Mallards Among Top Three in 13 Categories


MOLINE, Ill. (March 19, 2014) - Quad City Mallards coach and general manager Terry Ruskowski has been voted the Central Hockey League's best coach and the Mallards have recognized as the league's hardest working team while Mallards forward Gergo Nagy has been tapped as the CHL's most underrated player in the CHL's annual "Best of the Best" poll of players, coaches and operations staff, the Mallards announced today in conjunction with the CHL.

In all the Mallards finished in the top three in 13 different on- and off-ice categories.

Ruskowski has piloted the Mallards to a 28-20-10 record and 66 points over 58 games this season.  The Mallards, who are in sixth place in the CHL, are on course to claim a playoff berth for the second time in as many seasons under Ruskowski.  The veteran bench boss has gone 651-462-118 over the course of his 19-year professional head-coaching career.  Ruskowski has posted a record of 437-248-79 over 12 years in the CHL and in November moved into third place in league history in career coaching wins.

The Mallards have been voted the league's hardest working team for the second time in their four seasons in the CHL and have now finished either first or second in that category each of the last four years.  The Mallards came in second in the voting for hardest working team both last season and in 2011-12 after finishing first in 2010-11.

Nagy has scored 18 goals and picked up 30 assists for 48 points while posting a plus/minus rating of +14 in 56 games with the Mallards this season.  He is tied for second in the CHL in shorthanded goals (3).  Nagy earlier this month made his American Hockey League debut with the Chicago Wolves.

Nagy is not the only Mallard player recognized in the Best of the Best poll.  Vladimir Nikiforov, who has scored 11 times and totaled 36 points in 55 games this season, was voted the league's second fastest skater while Thomas Frazee finished third in the best rookie voting.  Among first year players, Frazee ranks fourth in goals (20), fifth in points (39) and eighth in assists (19).  He is also tied for second overall in shorthanded goals (3).  Frazee has registered a plus/minus of +6 in 52 games.

The Mallards have also been recognized for off-ice excellence.  The team's fans have obviously made an impression on opposing players, who- for the second straight season- voted them the third most annoying in the CHL while the iWireless Center was voted the third most difficult building in which to win.  As hostile as its environment has been for visiting teams, the iWireless Center has certainly proven welcoming to fans- the Mallards' home finished third in voting for best concessions.

A pair of longtime Mallard stalwarts are also among those honored.  For the second consecutive year, Mo Mallard finished second in the polling for best mascot while Guy Perry was voted the league's second best public address announcer.  There is league wide recognition as well for Mallard newcomers- still in their first season, the Mallards' Bud Light Ice Girls finished third in voting for best cheerleaders/dance team.

The Mallard received high marks for artistic impression.  The club's logo was voted third best in the league.  After being revamped at the start of this season, myqcmallards.net finished third in voting for best website.

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 seventeenth season their fourth in the Central Hockey League.  One of the winningest teams in all of minor league hockey, the Mallards competed in the United Hockey League from 1995 through 2007 and in the International Hockey League in 2009-10.  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/quadcitymallards.

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