Born in West Hills, California, Matt Ford has seen his career take him from coast-to-coast. Ford was drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in the eighth round of the 2004 NHL entry draft; however, he was never signed by the ‘Hawks.

Prior to playing professionally, Ford played four years at the University of Wisconsin. During his four seasons as a Badger, Ford recorded 39 points (21G, 18A) and 100 penalty minutes in 124 games. After his collegiate career was finished, Ford split his first year as a professional – 2008-09 – with the Charlotte Checkers, Hartford Wolf Pack and Lake Erie Monsters.

Ford joined the Monsters last season and played in five games. He started this season in the ECHL with the Charlotte Checkers but came back to the Monsters after signing a pro tryout contract on October 30th and since then has done nothing but produce. In 41 games this season, Ford has 25 points (12G, 13A), and leads the team in the plus/minus department with a +14 mark.

Highlights:

• January 30th: Notched fifth multi-point game of the season (1G, 1A) in 5-3 loss against San Antonio.

• January 13th: Registered fourth multi-point game of the season (2G) in 5-3 win against Hamilton.

• December 13th: Recorded third multi-point game of the season (2A) in 7-3 win against Chicago.

• December 1st: Picked up second multi-point game of the season (2A) in 6-2 win against Grand Rapids.

• October 31st: Notched first multi-point game of the season (1G, 1A) in 6-5 win against Peoria.

• October 30th: Scored his first goal of the season in his first game back in the AHL in a 5-4 shootout victory against Peoria.