Kyle Lysaght, the leading scorer for the UAH Chargers last season, picked up where he left off with a five-goal effort in an easy 12-1 exhibition win Saturday night over the University of Alabama.
The Chargers, an NCAA Division I independent, outshot the club team Frozen Tide 59-5. The two teams play again today at 3 p.m.
UAH, under new head coach Kurt Kleinendorst, was expected to win the game as the Chargers prepare for next weekend's regular season opener against Minnesota State - Mankato.
"We're excited about playing the Division I" teams, Lysaght said.
Also next weekend, officials from the Western Collegiate Hockey Association will visit Huntsville. The Chargers are hoping to enter the WCHA, which includes Minnesota State and longtime rival Bemidji State.
Kleinendorst, a former assistant coach with the New Jersey Devils, realized last night's game was a mismatch of sorts but said it was important for the Chargers to face another team in preparation for its schedule.
"In fairness, we absolutely respect who we played," he said after the game. "I don't want (the players) to get carried away (with the win.)"
The game was a milestone of sorts, too. It marked the first time that sons of UAH alumni played against the Chargers.
Alabama forward Andre Morard started the game and recorded the team's second shot on goal. He is the son of former Charger Gus Morard.
Zach Dailey, the son of Tom Dailey, is also on the Tide roster, but he was not in the lineup Saturday after being injured in the 6-1 win over Georgia Tech on Friday night.
That's not the lone UAH-Alabama hockey connection. Former Charger Mike Quenneville is the head coach of the Frozen Tide.
Kleinendorst dressed just 15 skaters for Saturday night's game and those who didn't make the lineup will be on the ice for this afternoon's matinee match at the Von Braun Center.
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