The Mercyhurst men’s hockey team is preparing for the Atlantic Hockey Association (AHA) Tournament.

The Lakers started the first round playing Army at home on March 8 and 9. The Lakers took down the Black Knights 3-1 and 5-2 at the Mercyhurst Ice Center.

The quarterfinals were held at Holy Cross for a three-game series against the Crusaders from March 15 through 17.

The Lakers took two of three from Holy Cross.

In game one, goals were scored by sophomore Tyler Shiplo, sophomore Daniel Bahntge, and senior Grant Blakey. Game two goals were scored by sophomore Chris Bodo and Grant Blakey. In the deciding game three, the goal went to Blakey.

On Monday, March 18, Blakey and junior goaltender Jordan Tibbett received AHA weekly honors for their roles in these wins at Holy Cross.

Since taking two of three from Holy Cross, the Lakers move on to the semifinals where they will face the University of Connecticut. The game is scheduled for Friday, March 22, at Rochester, N.Y. in the Blue Cross Arena. The puck is set to drop at 7:05 p.m.

Additionally, Mercyhurst University will be hosting a send-off for both the men’s and women’s hockey teams as they make their way into their respective tournament play. The send off for the men’s team will begin at 12:15 p.m. on Thursday, March 22. The send-off for the women’s team will take place at 2:15 p.m. on Wednesday, March 21.