Love For the Game, Michael Leighton Honored In Ice Hogs History
ROCKFORD, Ill. — In a celebration befitting one of the most remarkable careers in American Hockey League history, the Rockford IceHogs officially retired Michael Leighton’s jersey on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, honoring the veteran goaltender’s lasting impact on the franchise and the sport. The ceremony — held during the first period intermission in the IceHogs’ matchup against the Iowa Wild — drew fans, former teammates, and members of the hockey community to the BMO Center to pay tribute to a true AHL great. Leighton spoke to the crowd thanking them for the support and allowing him and his family to be a part of the AHL’s best fan base.
Leighton, a native of Petrolia, Ontario, donned the IceHogs crease from 2014–16, appearing in 88 regular-season games and eight playoff contests with the club. In that span, he established himself as one of Rockford’s most dominant netminders, finishing with ten shutouts — the most in team history.
A Legendary AHL Career
While Rockford was a memorable chapter, Leighton’s career across the American Hockey League spanned 15 seasons, 13 teams, and over 500 games, giving him a resume that few goaltenders in league history can rival. He finished his AHL tenure with 507 games played, ranking among the most for a goaltender in league history, and compiled a record-setting 50 shutouts, the most ever achieved in AHL competition.
Along the way, Leighton earned accolades that showcased his elite performance:
5 AHL All-Star Classic appearances — a testament to his consistency at the highest level of minor-league hockey. (2002, 2008, 2012, 2016, & 2017).
Aldege “Baz” Bastien Memorial Award as the league’s most outstanding goaltender. (2008).
All-Rookie Team honors in his debut seasons. (2002).
AHL Hall of Fame induction as a Class of 2025 enshrinee, cementing his legacy among the league’s all-time greats.
Leighton also etched his name into league lore with singular feats, including the record for most saves in a single game — 98 stops in a five-overtime marathon contest — and his sustained excellence in clutch playoff performances.
Impact on and Off the Ice
Beyond his in-net accomplishments, Leighton was recognized for his community leadership during his IceHogs tenure. In 2015-16 he earned the team’s IOA/American Specialty AHL Man of the Year award for his heartfelt outreach efforts — from creating the “Leighton’s Minions” program to fundraising and support for local causes.
Since retiring from professional play, Leighton has continued to give back to the sport, running his own goalie academy in Ontario and shaping the next generation of netminders.
Remembering a Rockford Icon
As the IceHogs raised Leighton’s jersey to the rafters, fans reflected on a career defined by perseverance, skill, and heart. For many in Rockford and across the AHL, Michael Leighton isn’t just a Hall of Famer — he’s a defining figure of his era, a beloved ambassador of the game, and now an immortalized member of IceHogs history.
Fun Facts About Michael Leighton
He holds the AHL record for most career shutouts (50).
Leighton’s “98-save game” remains one of the single greatest goaltending performances in AHL history.
He is still the only Chicago Blackhawks goaltender to earn a shutout in his first career start.
Played for 13 different AHL teams and across an 18-year professional career, including NHL stints.
Beyond hockey, he is active in coaching and development, helping aspiring goalies refine their craft. He currently is the goaltenders coach for the Detroit Red Wings.
Leighton’s jersey retirement was more than a ceremony — it was a celebration of resilience and excellence that will resonate in Rockford and the broader hockey world for years to come.
Congratulations Michael Leighton.
- Daulton Cooper/Olde City Sports Network
- Photo Credit: Daulton Cooper 1410 AM WRMN/OCSN
