Chicago Wolves Hockey
The Chicago Wolves consists of an ice hockey team that plays professionally under the American Hockey League. They happen to be a top minor league affiliate under the National Hockey League of the Carolina Hurricanes.
Two famous Chicago business owners by the name of Buddy Meyers and Don Levin own the team. The Chicago Wolves joined the AHL (American Hockey League) once the IHL (International Hockey League) folded back in 2001.
A Little History
Wolves bagged the Calder Cup and Turner Cup thrice and twice, respectively. They recently won the Calder Cup in 2022.
Plus, they also became qualified for all 5 postseasons and appeared in 8 league championship finals. One of their best players was Steve Maltais who was officially retired.
Maltais has played in every single season and is responsible for most of the team’s scores and accolades. Some other notable players from the roster include the likes of Wendell Young, AI Secord, Rob Brown, Chris Chelios, and Troy Murray.
The first 14 years of the Wolves’ time in the competition were extremely favorable. They dominated the 2007-2008 season, where they won thirteen of the first fourteen games accompanied by an overtime loss.
They completed the season with a staggering 111 points, and also stood 1st in the Western Conference. Chicago Wolves have won 2 regular season titles i.e., IHL (1999 to 2000) and AHL (2021 to 2022).
They have also won 4 IHL and 10 AHL Division Titles. Also, the Wolves have secured 3 IHL and 5 AHL Conference Titles over the years.
Stadium, Affiliation, League Teams & More
The home arena or stadium of the Chicago Wolves is called Allstate Arena, which is located back in Rosemont, Illinois. Its location is in the vicinity of the Interstate 90 and Mannheim Road Intersection, which is adjacent to the ‘O’ Hare International Airport and Chicago City Lights.
Apart from the Chicago Wolves, this stadium was also home to a plethora of collegiate and professional teams. A notable mention would be the DePaul Blue Demons team from 1980 till 2017.
Parking is closely available at every single one of the Allstate Arena entrances. The parking fee tends to range anywhere between $25 to $50.
Only cash is accepted, and the charges are extra for limousines and buses. Parking spaces are available 2 hours before the event takes place and tailgating isn’t allowed.
Let’s take a look at some of their past and current affiliations:
- Atlanta Thrashers – 2001 to 2011
- Vancouver Canucks – 2011 to 2012
- St. Louis Blues – 2013 to 2015
- Carolina Hurricanes – 2020 to Present
- Nashville Predators – Secondary National Hockey League Affiliate (Temporary) 2020 to 2021.
- Norfolk Admirals (ECHL) – One of their Current Affiliates.
The General Manager and Head Coach of the Chicago Wolves are Wendell Young and Brock Sheahan, respectively. Chicago Wolves are represented by the following colors – White, Burgundy, Gold, and Black.
Chicago Wolves are a part of the AHL’s Central Division. Other teams that fall in this league and division includes:
- Texas Stars
- Grand Rapids Griffins
- Rockford IceHogs
- Iowa Wild
- Milwaukee Admirals, and
- Manitoba Moose.
Things for Kids to Do at the Game
You can sign your kids up for the ‘Skates Mates Kids Club.’ The All-Stars get to engage with the Wolves Players in an exclusive party.
They also receive a free ticket to 1 game per month, including a Slapshot Sunday. Here, they are allowed to skate on ice and have fun with other members of the club.
There is a Kids Zone right behind Section 109 at the Wolves party. Plus, the kids can also partake in face painting and sign making activities in every season.
Another fun idea would be staying at the Residence Inn. It is located just near the Allstate Arena Stadium.
Here, your kids have a high chance of meeting and interacting with the players. You can get autograph for your kids and take memorable pictures with the players.
We would also recommend you try family-friendly restaurants like ‘Gino’s East’ and ‘Buono Beef.’ Plus, they have numerous kid-friendly food options at the game as well.
What NHL team are the Chicago Wolves affiliated with?
The Chicago Wolves are currently affiliated with the Carolina Hurricanes of the National Hockey League (NHL). The Wolves serve as the American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate team, which means they often develop and train players for the Hurricanes.
How much money do the Chicago Wolves players make in a season?
The salaries of players in the American Hockey League (AHL), such as the Chicago Wolves, can vary widely depending on the player’s experience, skill level, and contract details. According to the Professional Hockey Players’ Association, the minimum salary for AHL players for the 2020-2021 season was set at $51,000 per year.
Keep in mind, many players in the AHL have contracts with National Hockey League (NHL) teams, which often pay significantly higher salaries. These players may earn their NHL salary even while playing in the AHL, depending on the terms of their contracts.
For the most accurate information regarding a specific player’s salary, it would be best to seek out resources that regularly provide updated contract and salary information for professional hockey players.
What activities are for kids at a Chicago Wolves hockey game?
The Chicago Wolves aim to offer a fun and engaging experience for all ages at their hockey games. Here are some activities specifically for kids that you can usually expect:
Skates Mates Kids Club: This is a kids club for fans under 16, where they can receive exclusive membership benefits, attend special events, and get a birthday message from Skates, the Wolves mascot.
Interactive Games: During game breaks, there might be interactive games or contests on the ice for young fans.
Mascot Interaction: Skates, the Wolves mascot, and his sidekick, Skates Jr., often walk around the stadium, greeting fans, giving high-fives, and posing for pictures.
Promotional Evenings: The Wolves often hold special promotions, such as youth jersey giveaways, mascot birthday parties, and kids painting nights.
Family Sundays: Sunday afternoon games often have special family-friendly promotions, such as discounted family meal deals or post-game skating sessions.
For the most current and accurate information about kids activities at a specific Chicago Wolves game, I recommend checking the Wolves’ official website or contacting their customer service directly.
