First-year Head Coach Bob Koopmann announces all of Rockford's 17 home games at will be played at RiverHawks Stadium. (Photo courtesy of Rockford College)

Regents to play 2007 home games at RiverHawks Stadium
ROCKFORD, Ill. -- In a joint press conference today, Rockford College first-year Head Coach Bob Koopmann and Rockford RiverHawks General Manager Josh Olerud released the 2007 Rockford College Regents baseball schedule. The 32-game slate is highlighted by 17 home games, all played at RiverHawks Stadium.

"This is a great opportunity for Rockford College and our baseball program, both now and in the future," said Koopmann. "We'll have the best field in the conference, which is great for the kids we have playing now. It is also a major draw in terms of recruiting. We're giving kids a chance to play every game in a professional stadium."

Both Koopmann, a former RiverHawks manager and current bench coach, and Olerud recognize the importance of this announcement to Rockford College and the greater Rockford community.

"This allows Rockford College to call home the premier minor-league facility in Illinois and the opportunity for us to showcase that we are supporters of the Rockford community and for the region to see Rockford College utilize our city's gem," Olerud said.

The Regents will play 17 games at RiverHawks Stadium through the spring, beginning with a doubleheader on Saturday, March 17 against Beloit. The Regents 2007 baseball schedule includes 10 Northern Athletics Conference (NAC) contests and three Saturday afternoon doubleheaders, as well as three weekday afternoon doubleheaders.

"Playing our home games at RiverHawks Stadium will offer our fans and players a first-class experience," said Hank Espensen, Rockford College athletic director. "Hopefully, this will also enhance our relationships within the Rockford community by making Rockford College more visible to the area, by playing our games at RiverHawks Stadium."

For information about the 2007 Rockford RiverHawks, please contact the box office at (815) 885-2255 or visit www.rockfordriverhawks.com.

Courtesy of Rockford College, Sports Information Department, January 8, 2007.