The Alabama Division I Men’s Club Hockey squad entered the 2025‑26 campaign with modest expectations, but a decisive stretch in the second half of the season hinted at a program on the rise.
A Turnaround After the Break
After a winter break that allowed the young group to gel, the team posted a ten‑win finish and began to click on the ice, a development that president Tyler Zent described as the moment the club finally found its identity.
The roster featured 17 newcomers, including 13 freshmen, which gave the team a fresh infusion of talent while also creating a learning curve that the coaching staff embraced.
Coaching Insights
Head coach Mike Fairbanks pointed to the positive atmosphere and respect among players as the foundation of that turnaround, noting that the squad’s chemistry was evident in the way they handled close games.
Assistant coach Will Zeek highlighted the prevalence of overtime and one‑goal contests last year, suggesting that the experience gained in those tight battles will be valuable as the program moves forward.
Looking Ahead
With a returning core, stronger cohesion and a growing fan base that set attendance records for the Iron Cup showdown against Auburn University, the team believes the late‑season surge was only the beginning.