Lafranchise To Depart Seawolves

Senior UAA defenseman Kane Lafranchise is leaving school this week and heading home.  My information tells me that Kane was a capable and dedicated student with the necessary abilities to be successful in his studies.  He was not able to regain his eligibility to play this semester so in concert with his family and with consultation of all involved he has chosen to leave school.  It's important to note that details (which I won't provide here) as to his specific challenges maintaining his playing eligibility give me good reason to express his scholarly attributes.

Bryce Christianson Giving Going Pro A Go

Bryce Christianson signed on today as an emergency back-up goaltender for the Stockton Thunder of the ECHL thereby foregoing any eligibility.  This had been rumored widely here so I'm not thinking this comes as a big surprise to regular readers.  The main reason for the post is instead just to reprint the comment from Todd Christiason (Bryce's dad) in the comment section of the new recruit post below. It's a simple testament to his character and a quality reflection back on the program:

"Its a very humble beginning for Bryce but he would like to thank everyone including the fans and blueliners who cheered him on for 21/2 years...He had huge expectations after his Sophmore year here and tried his best for the program. His goal is try to make the highest Professional League possible and to carry on the rich tradition of Alaskans in pro hockey...He will have his work cut out for him.. As his Dad and an Alum its a very tough day for our family but we are excited for Bryce... we want to thank everyone associated with the program.. yours in hockey.....Todd Christianson"

Thanks again Todd for choosing my blog to make that graceful statement.  We (and I'm speaking for everyone that reads here) wish him success.  We appreciate his past efforts as well.  He's got excellent athleticism so I'm betting on that to carry him forward.  And on a personal note, I hope to keep running into you at the Sully next season and beyond.