The Rockford IceHogs, top affiliate of the NHL’s Chicago Blackhawks, announced that they have signed veteran defenseman Brian Fahey to an AHL contract for the 2011-12 season.
Fahey, 30, brings 446 games of AHL experience to Rockford. Last season Fahey appeared in 60 games with the Hershey Bears, accumulating 29 points (4-25-29). The 6-1, 213-pound defenseman also made his NHL debut in 2010-11, skating in seven games with the Washington Capitals.
“Brian will be a tremendous addition to our team as he brings valuable experience and leadership to a young group,” said Chicago Blackhawks general manager of minor league affiliations Mark Bernard. “We are looking forward to Brian not only being one of our go-to defensemen, but also teaching and being a mentor for our younger d-men.”
The Glenview, Illinois native has also played AHL contests with the Lake Erie Monsters, Hartford Wolf Pack, Chicago Wolves, Iowa Stars and Worcester IceCats. Fahey was a member of the 2008 Calder Cup Champion Wolves club when he registered career-bests with 14 goals and 37 points in 76 games. He added two goals and eight assists in 24 Calder Cup Playoff games in 2008.
Originally drafted by the Colorado Avalanche in the fourth round (#119 overall) of the 2000 NHL Entry Draft, Fahey attended the University of Wisconsin and played four seasons with the Badgers. He totaled 14g-28a-42pts in 156 collegiate games at Wisconsin.
