Kris Bennett named Howies Hockey Tape Rookie of the Month

Coralville, Iowa - Iowa Heartlanders forward Kris Bennett has been named the Howies Hockey Tape ECHL Rookie of the Month for February. This marks the second straight month the Heartlanders have earned a league-wide monthly award; Jake Smith was named ECHL Rookie of the Month for January.Bennett scored 10 goals and added 12 assists for 22 points in 12 games during the month. He was second in the league in points this month, trailing his linemate Ryan Kuffner (23 pts.).The 26-year-old posted multiple points in nine of his 12 outings in the month, including four points (2g-2a) on Feb. 23 against Wichita, as well as a pair of three-point games on Feb. 4 at Toledo and Feb. 18 at Kalamazoo. He was named ECHL Player of the Week for the week ending Feb. 6 after posting seven points (4g-3a) in three games.Under contract to Iowa of the American Hockey League, Bennett leads ECHL rookies with 47 points and is tied for first with 22 goals in 31 games with the Heartlanders this season. He has added one goal in 12 AHL games with the Wild.Bennett made his pro debut last season, posting two assists in nine AHL games with Stockton. Prior to turning pro, he recorded 113 points (47g-66a) in 89 career games at the University of New Brunswick and he totaled 114 points (57g-57a) in 195 career games with Saginaw of the Ontario Hockey League.The Landers start a three-game home stand next Wed., Mar. 9 with College Night vs. Fort Wayne at 7:00 p.m., presented by Hills Bank. On Friday, Mar. 11 at 7:00 p.m., Iowa plays Fort Wayne again on Military Appreciation Night, presented by GreenState Credit Union. The weekend finale takes place on Saturday, Mar. 12 at 7:00 p.m. vs. Kalamazoo.Iowa’s next game is at Kansas City on Sat., Mar. 5 at 7:05 p.m.Tavern Blue Fore Packs are available for all home games this season, which includes four tickets, four hot dogs, four sodas, VIP Parking and discounts from Tavern Blue restaurant. Tickets for the game are also available by calling 319-569-PUCK.Upcoming Home GamesWednesday, Mar. 9th at 7:00 p.m. vs. Fort Wayne – College Night pres. by Hills BankFriday, Mar. 11th at 7:00 p.m. vs. Fort Wayne – Military Appreciation Night, pres. by GreenState Credit Union (Camo Stress Ball Giveaway, proceeds benefit Salute to Fallen)Saturday, Mar. 12th at 7:00 p.m. vs. KalamazooWednesday, Mar. 23rd at 7:00 p.m. vs. Fort Wayne – College Night pres. by Hills BankThe Heartlanders Season ticket memberships, group tickets, mini-plans, flex vouchers and single-game tickets are available for the Heartlanders inaugural season by calling 319-569-GOAL and visiting iowaheartlanders.com/tickets.