[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 61 (Tuesday, April 17, 2007)]
[Senate]
[Page S4593]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO COACH DOUG ROSS

 Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. President, I would like to congratulate and 
make some remarks today about a very valuable asset to the University 
of Alabama in Huntsville and the entire State of Alabama--Ice Hockey 
Head Coach Doug Ross, who is retiring after 25 years of coaching the 
UAH Chargers hockey team.
  Coach Ross began his coaching career at Ohio University in 1976 where 
he coached for one season, and then at Kent State University for 2 
years. He came to UAH in 1982. The hockey team at that time was a top 
team and the only NCAA hockey team south of the Mason-Dixon line. Under 
his leadership, the team has had great success, reaching NCAA Division 
I status. Quoting Coach Joe Ritch, his predecessor at UAH. ``Doug 
brought UAH championships, unique notoriety, and national respect in 
the collegiate hockey world. We all owe Doug Ross a debt of gratitude 
for his commitment to UAH and hockey for this state.''
  The team went to the NCAA Regional Tournament this year where they 
played the third longest game in NCAA Regional Tournament history. In a 
thrilling game with top-ranked and top-seeded Notre Dame, the Chargers 
lost 3-2 in double overtime on a power-play goal. If winning it all 
could not happen, this game was one on which to cap a career.
  Coach Ross is known for recruiting top notch student athletes to UAH. 
Following their success on the ice, many of his players are active 
alumni, living in the Huntsville area and actively involved in the 
community.
  Thank you, Coach Ross, for bringing NCAA hockey to the forefront in 
Alabama and for your loyalty and support for the University of Alabama 
in Huntsville. Your legacy is a great one and I join with UAH, the 
Huntsville community, and the State of Alabama in wishing you the very 
best in your retirement.

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