FROM STAFF REPORTS

TUSCALOOSA – The Iron Cup of hockey has finally arrived as the Frozen Tide of Alabama will take on the Auburn Tigers twice this coming weekend. The coaching staff expects large crowds after last year’s turnout topped 7,000 fans over the three game series.

The two teams will face off at 8 p.m. Friday night and 7:30 p.m. Saturday night at the Pelham Civic Complex located at 500 Amphitheater Road in Pelham. Last year, Auburn and Alabama Hockey played each other in the inaugural Iron Cup. With each school’s passionate fan bases, the football rivalry bleeds onto the hockey rink.

“This is the game that changed the face of Alabama hockey. It made it relevant in the state,” said Head Coach Mike Quenneville. “Destroying Auburn is what our fans want more than anything. All week we will hear from people all over the country ‘Beat Auburn.’”

The Tide is coming off a sweep versus The University of Miami, with come from behind wins of 5-3 Friday and 5-3 Saturday. Six different Frozen Tide members found the back of the net this past weekend. Sean Vinson was stellar in goal, getting the win both nights.

Emily Pitek, the infamous Alabama softball fan who recently was one of three people inducted into the ESPN Hall of Fans, will conduct the ceremonial puck drop before the game. This game also marks the return of Kevin Davis after a nearly two year hiatus due to concussion issues.

“Hockey has always been my passion. I love this game and I love these players and I love this team. Very few people have the opportunity to come back and I truly believe that I can help this team. We have so much potential, and I think that I can teach a few of our freshman, as well as help a few of the guys that have been here for a while… It’s is a once in a lifetime thing, and I am so blessed to be afforded this opportunity.”

For more information on the Crimson Tide Hockey Team, please visit bamahockey.net