LOWELL, Mass. – The early morning fog cleared at Four Oaks Country Club in Dracut last Friday, setting the stage for a beautiful 25th annual River Hawk Hockey Golf Tournament, presented by UKG. A large field of UMass Lowell ice hockey alumni, coaches, players, staff, and friends of the program gathered and reunited for the event.
"It's funny how we haven't skipped a beat," said Doug Carr, Class of 2014 goaltender. "It could be five or six years without seeing some of these guys, but you're right back to the way it was. It's interesting, with people now having families and kids. This event is great, because this is the time you'll get to see some of your old teammates and some of the other guys."
The tournament featured 18 holes with a scramble format and shotgun start, followed by lunch, a raffle, and an auction, along with remarks from Head Coach
Norm Bazin, Athletic Director
Lynn Coutts, and Chancellor Julie Chen.
The university and hockey program have clearly made a lasting impact on those involved at every stage of their lives, and this tradition keeps them coming back year after year.
"I think this event is important because it creates a sense of loyalty, community, and commitment," said hockey alum Paul King, a member of the program's inaugural seasons. "To see other players who have come through the years return and support the team—that's what it's all about. It's a sense of being part of the family, so to speak."
Beyond the camaraderie and on-course competition, the team behind the scenes puts together an event that continues to grow the program in meaningful ways. The tournament not only maintains visibility for the team but also serves as a key fundraiser.
"I think with the history of the program, and Billy Riley as the cornerstone, it's been a really good run—and now Norm has taken over and is doing a great job," said Ken Kaiser, a two-time NCAA National Champion and member of the Class of 1983. "It's a good fundraiser and a good push for the upcoming season. Let's hope they can raise a little money today and keep things rolling."
Soon enough, the team will hit the ice for their season opener against Hockey East foe Merrimack on October 3. But before the first puck drops, the annual golf tournament served as a meaningful reminder of the deep bonds that tie generations of River Hawks together. With alumni, former coaches, and supporters showing up in full force, the day was more than just a fundraiser—it was a celebration of the program's past, present, and future.
