Hockey

Alaska Nanooks Secure Commitment from Western Michigan Defenseman Grady Gallatin

Coach Erik Largen expects immediate impact as the program adds size and championship experience ahead of the 2026‑27 season

A New Chapter for the Nanooks

The Alaska Nanooks have confirmed the addition of Grady Gallatin, a 6‑4, 205‑pound defenseman who will join the program for the 2026‑27 season after completing his eligibility at Western Michigan University.

Coach Erik Largen praised the incoming player, noting his blend of size, left‑handed shot and the grit he brings after a championship pedigree. "Grady is a strong and reliable defenseman with experience from a National Championship program," Largen said in the announcement.

Gallatin spent the 2023‑24 campaign with the Janesville Jets of the NAHL, posting 20 points in 51 games, and then contributed to Western Michigan’s National Championship run in 2024‑25. During the 2025‑26 season he appeared in 11 games for the Broncos, chipping in a goal and an assist while establishing himself as a reliable presence on the blue line.

Largen emphasized that Gallatin’s experience at a high‑level program should translate into an immediate impact, especially as the Nanooks look to bolster their defensive core ahead of the upcoming season. The club also hinted at further signings in the coming weeks, promising a busy period of roster construction as the team finalizes its lineup for the next campaign.

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