Fresno, CA - The Fresno Falcons announced today that the team has entered into an affiliation agreement with the National Hockey League's Chicago Blackhawks for the 2008-09 season. The Falcons will receive players from both the Blackhawks, and their American Hockey League affiliate, the Rockford IceHogs.

"We are excited to be affiliating with a team rich in tradition and success," Falcons Head Coach and General Manager Matt Thomas said. "It's no secret that the Blackhawks are quickly becoming a Stanley Cup contender. We are excited to work with their young prospects, and help them develop into future NHLer's."

The Chicago Blackhawks are one of the most storied NHL franchises. One of the league's "Original Six" teams, the Blackhawks began play in the 1926-27 season. During its 82 seasons of competition, Chicago has won three Stanley Cup championships and 13 division titles. The Blackhawks are one of the up-and-coming teams in the NHL with young stars Patrick Kane, Patrick Sharp, and Jonathan Toews. The team was active during the NHL free-agency period this summer, signing goaltender Cristobal Huet and defenseman Brian Campbell.

"We are very excited about our agreement with Fresno," Blackhawks General Manager Dale Tallon said. "Our young players will have the chance to develop in a wonderful hockey atmosphere with an organization that has a great track record."

"We are very excited about affiliating with the Fresno Falcons for the upcoming 2008-09 season," Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliates Mark Bernard said. "We are happy to have head coach Matt Thomas and assistant coach Ryan Mougenel working with the young Chicago Blackhawks' prospects, and we know that they'll do a terrific job in helping along their development."

Chicago becomes the second NHL affiliate in the Falcons' history, joining the San Jose Sharks, who were affiliated with the Falcons from 2003-2007.