IceHogs sign Kearns for 2009-10

Chicago Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliations Mark Bernard announced Friday that the Rockford IceHogs have agreed to terms with center Bracken Kearns on a one-year American Hockey League contract.

Kearns, 28, appeared in 53 games for the Norfolk Admirals 2008-09, recording 22 points (12 goals, 10 assists). His 12 markers in 2008-09 was an AHL career high for the Vancouver, B.C., native.

“Bracken Kearns is a player that I feel the Rockford IceHogs fans will quickly identify with and fall in love with,” Bernard said. “Like our community, he is a hard working, blue collar-type player. I had the opportunity to watch Bracken in Norfolk, and he is not only a great team player but will bring a lot of energy and commitment on the ice and will be a great penalty killer for Bill Peters.”

In four AHL seasons the pivot has amassed 74 points (32g, 42a) in 186 games between Norfolk (2007-09), Milwaukee (2006-07) and Cleveland (2005-06).