The Huntsville Havoc delivered more than just hard-hitting hockey with a heartfelt celebration of community on Melissa George game night, honoring the impact of the Melissa George Neonatal Memorial Fund with their 20^th annual fundraiser. The fund supports the Regional Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Huntsville Hospital for Women and Children, North Alabama’s only level 3 NICU center. Over 1,200 infants from across Alabama are cared for in the facility yearly.

Over 6,000 fans packed into the arena as the Havoc took the ice against the Knoxville Ice Bears wearing special sweaters created exclusively for the event. The sweaters, along with other memorabilia, were auctioned off after the game. Items auctioned for as much as 29k, bringing the total community support of the fund to $122,000 for this year’s event. Over the last 20 years the Havoc have raised over 1 million dollars toward the fund. Chris George gave a heartfelt thank you on the ice before the game began sharing that support from the Havoc fundraiser has made helping the 20,000 infants the fund has supported over the last 20 years possible.

On the ice, the Havoc matched the energy in the arena with a determined performance, feeding off the crowd’s enthusiasm. The Havoc struck early, setting the tone with aggressive forechecking and strong puck movement that led to the opening goal in the first period. Knoxville fought hard to answer but was unable to evade the Havocs solid defense of their zone, with the Havoc preventing the Ice Bears from taking more than 5 shots at the goal in the first period.

The Havoc capitalized on key scoring chances during the second period bringing the score to 3-0. Goaltending played a pivotal role, as the Havocs goaltender Brian Wilson (#50) turned aside several high-quality chances from the Ice Bears holding the game in the Havocs favor throughout the second period.

An action packed third period led to several fights and player ejections. The Ice Bears capitalized on their power play opportunities and chaos on the ice bringing the score to 3-3. Going into overtime fans were on the edge of their seats. Both teams held off scoring attempts forcing players into a shootout. The Havoc found success with Austin Alger (#18) scoring the game winning goal on the third attempt in the shootout.

This hard-won 4-3 victory moves the Havoc forward with confidence as they continue their journey through the season. This win meant more than just a push toward the playoffs. This win was a symbol of community support. Every hit, save, and scoring chance of the game was met with roaring approval from fans who understood the significance of the night went beyond the final score.

You can still donate to the Melissa George Neonatal Memorial Fund here.  Every Donation provides the hospital with cutting edge technology and innovative programs as well as providing support to patients and families in need.