By Abby Doperak · SAVANNAH, Ga. – The Tennessee Ice Vols return to action this weekend as they look to defend their title at the Savannah Classic. After ending last se…
SAVANNAH, Ga. – The Tennessee Ice Vols return to action this weekend as they look to defend their title at the Savannah Classic.
After ending last semester with several key players on injury reserve, the Ice Vols return from a seven-week break refreshed and ready to compete. Henry Cohen and Tyler Rose will both return to play this weekend after missing time with injuries. Tennessee will also debut two newcomers, Stanley Bright and Kieran Crossan.
Tennessee opens the Savannah Classic against Florida. In the teams’ most recent meeting, the Ice Vols split a weekend series, falling 6-4 in the first game before rebounding with an 11-2 victory. The Ice Vols found that the more relaxed and level-headed they played, the more success they found against the Gators.
“Work on the mistakes we made earlier in the season,” senior defenseman Myles Jackson said. “And we need to enjoy the moment.”
Following the matchup against Florida, Tennessee will either play in the third-place game or advance to the championship.
“We are excited to be back,” Jackson said. “We love Savannah and are looking forward to winning the game.”
The Ice Vols enter the weekend as reigning Savannah Classic champions after defeating Florida and Georgia in last year’s tournament. Tennessee beat Florida 6-3 before dominating Georgia 8-4 in the championship game.
“Last year was one of our biggest wins for the seniors,” Jackson said. “A lot of guys we are using in our lineup have stepped up for this. It’s a great group trip for the staff and the players.”
Players to watch include Tyler Iles, who recorded one goal and four assists last year, as well as Connor Frazer and Will Schnieder, who each tallied two goals and two assists. Tennessee will be without Mitchell Spranklin, who contributed one goal and three assists.
Tennessee will face Florida at Enmarket Arena in Savannah on Friday, 16, at 4 p.m. The Ice Vols will play again Saturday, 17, at either 2:30 p.m. or 5 p.m., depending on Friday’s result.