Miami RedHawks coach Anthony Noreen had no hesitation about making Ilia Morozov the youngest player in NCAA men’s hockey this season.

The early returns suggest Noreen made an excellent decision.

The 17-year-old Russian has four goals and five assists in six games for the 6-0 RedHawks, and is a big reason why Miami already has doubled its win total from Noreen’s first season with the Ohio-based squad last year (3-28-3). It is the school’s best start since 2007-08, and Miami is the only team with an unblemished record in the NCAA this season.

The connection between coach and player stems from Morozov’s early days in the Chicago area just two years ago after the Moscow-born forward moved away from home to further his hockey career. He quickly opened eyes during a pre-season futures camp wi

See Full Page