The Ice Dawgs returned home to face Georgia Tech at the Classic Center on Wednesday night November 5. The last meeting between the two teams involved a full house for the Ice Dawgs’ home opener in Athens on April 9 with a 6-3 win, but this year with the seats still packed, Georgia Tech had a different outcome in mind.
A repeat of the previous showdown seemed hopeful for Georgia in the first few minutes, as freshman Riley Carlson sparked an early lead less than two minutes into the game, but Tech answered with Joey Schutz quickly tying up the game. Tech then tood advantage of three Georgia penalties and would score three unanswered goals during power plays, two by Cole Wright and one from Mitchell Carr. Before the end of the first period Georgia’s Alex Carey, assisted by David Bakin, was able to cut the deficit but Tech regained their lead with Wright’s third goal of the night.
After the intermission the Ice Dawgs came back in the 2nd period with two goals by Zach Flasch and Michael Falkenstein, bringing the score to a close 6-4. Late in the second period Georgia was unable to maximize on power plays while giving up two shorthanded goals to Tech.
Despite a 3rd period rally by the Dawgs and goals in by Georgia’s Stephen Bray and Falkenstein, Tech kept their Georgia in check in the final two minutes and held on to a final score of 8-6 in favor of the Yellowjackets.
The Ice Dawgs’ next chance on the ice came on Sunday, in the form of a Military Appreciation Game. Facing an ironclad team made up of the armed forces, the team took the day to honor their opponents, with a final score of 12-8, Georgia.
The U.S. Armed Forces won in other ways, however, with multiple events that benefited Hockey Saves, a non-profit organization that promotes hockey as an outlet and a connection for soldiers across the country. Starting with pick up games in New York, Hockey Saves has allowed a variety of hockey opportunities, including organized games, tickets, and care packages.
Before the game on Saturday, Balmore Outdoors, in Monroe, Ga., hosted the Ice Dawgs, with all purchases going towards Hockey Saves. During the game on Sunday, Georgia also sold a customized t-shirt and held a silent auction for one of the specialized, army hockey jerseys. On a mission to gain support and raise money, the Ice Dawgs spent the weekend sharing the ice with military heroes, honoring their service and duty to the country.
UGA’s next mission will be on Friday, Nov. 14th, against Alabama at the Classic Center. Puck drop is 7:30pm
The Dawgs then face off against Auburn at 12 noon on Saturday as a “tailgate special” prior to the UGA vs Auburn football game!
