Bloomington Ice Center manager Michael Hernbrott will be inducted into the Illinois Hockey Hall of Fame [IHHF] under the coaches category in January 2025.
“The friendships I’ve made from the players and families I’ve met through the sport have surpassed any expectations I could dream of,” Hernbrott said. “I’ve dedicated my life to helping the youth and local clubs in the communities of Oak Park, Berwyn and Gurnee, IL. I’m grateful to be acknowledged at this time," Hernbrott said.
Earlier this month, the IHHF announced the 20th class of inductees into its Hall of Fame. These include players, coaches, builders and referees.
Previously, Hernbrott was inducted into the Illinois State University’s Hockey Club Hall of Fame in 2023 for his efforts to recruit players and grow the club program.
Superintendent of Recreation for the City of Bloomington’s Parks and Recreation Department, James Wayne, praised Hernbrott for his achievement.
“This is such a tremendous honor for Michael,” Wayne said. “He has turned his passion for hockey into a career and positively impacted so many youths and families in the suburbs and our City of Bloomington. We are appreciative of his continued leadership of the Bloomington Ice Center and the impact he continues to have both on the ice and in our local hockey community.”
Hernbrott expressed gratitude for the recognition and said he's optimistic about hockey's future in Bloomington.
“The potential for growth of the sport with the [ECHL's Bloomington] Bison has me feeling positive and hopeful for the future of our entire Bloomington Ice Center family and clubs,” Hernbrott continued.
The IHHF induction dinner will be held starting at 5 p.m. Jan. 26 at the Belvedere Banquet Hall at 117 West Devon Ave. in Elk Grove Village.
“I look forward to continuing this focus here in Bloomington,” Hernbrott said in a press release. “It has been my home since 2013.”
