Crimson Icemen Will Face Michigan In Detroit Holiday Tourney Opener

While the rest of Harvard relaxes over the Christmas holidays, the Crimson icemen will make a rare venture into the winterlands of Michigan for their first appearance in the Great Lakes Invitational Tournament in Detroit.

Although there won't be a section 18 to cheer the Crimson on, the Harvard Club of Southeastern Michigan has made sure that a block of Harvard fans will be there when Harvard faces off against Michigan in the opening game December 27.

Earlier this week, the Club mailed out letters asking its members if they wanted to purchase block tickets.

Harvard shouldn't have too much trouble with Michigan, but a victory in that same will send them into the finals against the winner of the Michigan Tech. Boston University contest, both powerhouses.

Michigan Tech coach Jack MacInnes, organizer of the tourney, has lured three of the nation's finest teams to this year's two-day holiday festival. In this week's Associated Press poll, the Crimson ranked second. Michigan Tech third, and B.U. notched fifth.

MacInnes said Tuesday that he was placed with this year's line-up. "I've had a hard time in the beginning getting Eastern teams to come to the tournament," he said. "But now we're set through 1974."

Michigan Tech is the defending champion in the tournament. MacInnes said he expects to have his hands full with B.U., last year's NCAA champion.

"We scouted them at the beginning of the year, when they played a game against Air Force," he said. "But they were a little sluggish then. They've grown a lot stronger, and they always play a physical game."

Harvard will take on a weak Michigan squad that has accumulated a 3-11 record this season. Michigan coach Al Renfrew said yesterday that he doesn't plan to throw anything special against the Crimson. "We'll just try to keep up with them," he sighed.

Renfrew's leading scorer is captain Ricky Malett. Who has racked up 15 points in 14 games. "We just haven't scored that much this year." Renfrew said.

The Wolverines will have freshman goalie Robbie Moore in the nets against the Crimson. Rentrew said Moore, a native of Sarnia, Ont., has played well since obtaining the starting assignment.

All four teams will arrive in Detroit in December 26, Harvard Michigan Tech, and Michigan all wrapped up pre-tourney practice sessions yesterday, while B.U. has one more contest. Thursday night against Merrimac, before they head for Detroit.