UAH Hockey: The South's Only College Hockey Team Is on Thin Ice

HUNTSVILLE—Now is the time to step up, Huntsville.

The University of Alabama-Huntsville hockey team is only 1-19-1 this season.

The program faced deletion no more than three months ago, but now has new life thanks to former college radio announcer Geoff Morris.

Morris, among others, has come to the aid of the program to attempt to save the only college (NCAA) hockey team south of the Mason-Dixon line.

With support for the program from Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, the program could find itself in a situation where it can benefit and thrive again.

However, support from just a few can only go so far.  Now is the time for Huntsville to support the program.

College hockey is as fan-friendly as any sport, and the team could really use the support of Huntsville residents.  And not only does this hockey program need your support, they deserve it.

The history and tradition of Chargers hockey is unmatched by any of its kind in the South.

When the Alabama-Huntsville Chargers began playing hockey in 1979, the idea of a successful program was only an afterthought. 

The club team was one of very few teams in the South, and as far as the state was concerned, hockey was only popular in Birmingham.

However, the program began to grow and even thrive in a unique situation.

The Chargers won three Southern Collegiate Hockey Association titles in a row, and in 1982 the squad captured its first club hockey national championship. 

By 1985, the Chargers were a powerhouse, claiming two national titles and one runner-up finish.

Since then, the Chargers have won two more national NCAA Division II titles.  However, UAH was forced into NCAA Division I after D-II was disbanded.

The school has since played with the big boys of hockey, and have not fared nearly as well, but they still maintain a competitive product.

With more support, this team could become the most popular ticket in town, and the new Propst Arena at the Von Braun Center is an exciting venue.

Step up, Huntsville.  Show your support for yet another unique draw in your city.