A Milestone Season
The University of Alaska Anchorage’s men’s hockey program will begin its 46th season on home ice against the defending NCAA Division I national champion Denver Pioneers, a matchup that has become a recurring early‑season tradition. The game marks the third consecutive year the two clubs have opened the campaign together, and the second time in three seasons that Denver has chosen Anchorage as the venue for its season‑opening contest.
New Leadership
Eric Rud, who took over as head coach after Matt Shasby guided the Seawolves back from the brink of program extinction, is preparing his squad for a demanding slate of opponents. Rud inherits a roster that includes senior forward Mac Swanson and sophomore defenseman Bret Link, both of whom are expected to play pivotal roles as the team seeks to build on recent progress.
A Rigorous Schedule
The schedule ahead is anything but easy. In addition to the season‑opening series with Denver, the Seawolves will travel to face Michigan, Colorado College, and a six‑game series against UAF that forms part of the Alaska Airlines Governor’s Cup. The first of those Governor’s Cup meetings is slated for November 20 in Fairbanks, adding a geographic twist to the rivalry.
National Stage
Denver’s recent championship was secured with a 2‑1 victory over Wisconsin in Las Vegas in April, giving the Pioneers their 11th national title. Coach David Carle, a local coaching superstar, will lead a team that blends veteran experience with fresh talent, making the upcoming encounter a true test for Rud’s newly assembled staff.
Home‑Ice Plans
While the exact venues for many of the home games are still being finalized, several contests are expected to be held at Sullivan Arena, a historic site that has long served as the heart of Anchorage hockey. The university is working with city officials to ensure the arena’s availability while also exploring alternative facilities.
Upcoming Events
March will bring another marquee event: the United Collegiate Hockey Cup, which will showcase Division I independents and provide the Seawolves with additional competitive exposure. The tournament is scheduled for early March and will feature a mix of regional and national teams.
Overall, the upcoming season represents both a celebration of the program’s history and a bold step forward under new leadership. Fans can look forward to a schedule that blends high‑profile matchups with local rivalries, all while the team aims to cement its place among the nation’s competitive programs.