The 2010-2011 UAA Seawolves Senior Class

Tommy Grant, Nick Haddad, Kane Lafranchise, Craig Parkinson, Luka Vidmar  and Sean Wiles are the 6 members of the 2010-2011 Seawolves senior class.  A familiar tag to WCHA fans should be the moniker that pegs the WCHA as an "upperclassmen's league".  What that simply means is that the teams who's junior and senior classes perform most successfully are the teams that will have the most success in the league.  These six UAA skaters will have a lot to say about the success of the 2010-2011 Seawolves.

2009-2010 Senior Tribute

Seven players comprise the 2009-2010 UAA Seawolves senior class; Nils Backstrom, Kevin Clark, Trevor Hunt, Josh Lunden, Jon Olthuis, Ken Selby and Jared Tuton.  9 freshman arrived on campus in September of 2006 for their 4 year adventure in "The Greatland".  Alaskans refer to newcomers as "Cheechako" which simply means they haven't endured a winter here.  No doubt some things about the transition from their various homes to Anchorage were eye-opening.  

All 9 stuck it out through the first season then Ryan Berry transferred to Grant McEwan College back in Canada.  After a 3rd stellar season wearing green and gold, Paul Crowder signed a contract with the NY Rangers and since been doing well with the AHL Hartford Wolfpack.  In 63 games this season he has 11 goals and 10 assists.  It's a nice testament to their collective personal character that seven of the nine in the class made it through all 4 years.  I've enjoyed and am grateful to have witnessed the Division 1 careers of all these great young men.  I hope down the road they all find Anchorage, UAA and the time they spent in Alaska as key parts of their character.  They're all welcome to come back here and make this place their home. 

Nils Backstrom

Nils came to UAA as the last (and quite late) addition to the Seawolves freshman class.  As an 18 year old playing J20 Hockey in Sweden Nils was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the 9th round.  Of all the freshman, we knew the least about him when he arrived.  He had decent looking numbers in Sweden, but what the hell did I know about Swedish junior hockey?  Pretty much nothing.

Scouting reports on Nils all agreed he was a good skater and the rest was a sort of mixed bag.  When he hit the ice at UAA it was clear that he indeed could skate very well.  As a freshman Nils tallied 1 goal and 9 assists in 33 games.  His first goal came against Mankato in November and was a game winner.  

My first solid observation about Nils was his ability to recover and dispossess opponents even though they had good position on the puck.  He has great hand/eye coordination and at speed can steal the puck whether he's in front of, beside or behind the opponent.  His speed and skating are his great equalizer and over time he has developed into one of the strongest stay-at-home defensive forces in the WCHA.

If there is a player that enjoys games more than Nils I haven't seen him.  But from my seat I can clearly see his big smiles and swaggering ways on the ice.  As a sophomore, Nils missed 16 games due to injury.  His 2nd career goal came against the same opponent as his first and he added 2 assists in the 16 games he played.

Nils began to blossom as a junior.  He scored 4 goals and added 4 assists.  But his physical play in his own end began to be more dominating.  If there was a crunching sound in the corner or along the boards, it was coming from another Backstrom hit.  

Nils is the most well-rounded defenseman on the team this season.  His defensive play has been outstanding.  I'm a critical observer of games but cannot recall mentally tagging him with the sorts of brutal errors that I've seen other D men make this season.  He is solid and dependable whether it's in front of or behind the net.  His first passes are accurate and crisp.  He always shows good hockey sense for being in the right place at the right time.  He doesn't lose many physical battles along the boards and has the strength to keep the crease clear.

I've loved having Nils here for the last 4 seasons.  I never worry when he's on the ice.  He will be missed on the team as much for his personality as his excellent play.  Going forward I'm not sure what to expect career wise.  I have little doubt that Nils could work his way into a ongoing slot as a dependable AHL level defenseman.  It wouldn't surprise me to find him finishing his hockey career in Sweden.  He has a very supportive family and after 4 years in the U.S., I think I'd want to go home.  

Thank you Nils, for bringing your on-ice ebullience and skills to UAA for 4 seasons.  You've enriched my experience as a fan watching you develop and turn into solid defensive force.  Both Olaf and I still think that you should shoot the puck more though.  Put a couple in versus Wisconsin this weekend, ok?  Best of luck in all your future endeavors Nils.  We'll all miss you.

Kevin Clark

Kevin came to UAA as a highly anticipated prospect.  At only 18 years old he had already accomplished quite a bit in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League.  He lead his team in goals, points and penalty minutes was an All-Star and led the South Blues to the league title.

I'm still sort of bothered that the MJHL punked Kevin for the MVP award that year.  The winner of the award went onto a 3 game career at Maine.  Clarky went onto to lead the WCHA in goal scoring in his 4th season.  I sure hope the same people that were doing the voting back then aren't doing it now.  It was a travesty.

Let me just say this before I get too far along.  Kevin is the most dynamic and talented Seawolves player since Dean Larson.  "The" is the keyword there.  Nobody since Lars has had the talent and abilities of Clark.  Nobody (i.e... not Glencross).  Like Glencross, Kevin has shown the ability to put this team on his shoulders at times.  During the 2nd half of this season he has been nothing less than scorching hot, on fire, burning up the rink fantastic.

In scouting terms he is quick, dynamic and gritty.  He has superb puck handling skills and the ability to make a glorious passes from difficult positions.  He sees the ice as well as anyone and has the quickness, creativity and determination to turn a lackluster play into a goal at any time.  The more a coach believes in this guy the more he will accomplish in his hockey career.

Perhaps my favorite story about Kevin is that prior to his first game, UAA Athletic Department folks spent quite some time ensuring that his mom would be able to see his debut via the Internet stream.  His play in preseason had impressed enough that he earned a start in the first regular season game.  But just 11 seconds into the game against Merrimack he flew deep into the offensive corner and pasted a guy onto the boards.  He got a 5 minute major for checking from behind and a game misconduct.  Welcome to WCHA refereeing.  No doubt it isn't his mom's favorite story, but for me it really displays exactly the sort of intensity with which Kevin plays.

With just two guaranteed games remaining Kevin sits at 51 goals for his career.  I don't believe for a second that 51 will be his final career number.  Kevin will leave a big hole for both fans and the team at the conclusion of the season.  As for his future, I think he finishes his hockey career in the NHL at some point.  

There's nothing certain with hockey careers.  He'll have to prove he plays bigger than his 5'10" frame.  But at 22 years old he has plenty of time to do so.  To get to the show, he'll need an AHL coach who believes in him and will help him develop his two-way game.  His role at UAA has never been geared to being a two-way player.  With some focus on that area over time, I can see Kevin impressing someone enough to get that chance in the NHL.  And in time he will become productive there.

Make some more noise this weekend Kevin.  Show these rubes in Wisconsin what a kid from Winnipeg can do with the puck when he wants to.  Undress a couple of highly drafted defensemen and pop a few into the net ok?  It's going to be hard for us fans to show up to the UAA rink next season and not get our Clarky fix.  But we'll be pulling for your success at the next level and above.  Best of luck with everything Kevin.  There's nary a UAA fan that doesn't believe in your future success.

Trevor Hunt

Trevor Hunt came to UAA from Chilliwack in the BCHL where he was a teammate of Josh Lunden.  In his final year of junior hockey he finished 3rd amongst all BCHL defensemen in scoring.  He left Chilliwack with the reputation for being one of the toughest guys they ever had play for them.

To be fully honest, I think Trevor's offensive abilities have been underutilized here at UAA.  As a freshman he played in 15 games and picked up 3 assists.  His progress during the season earned him a spot in the lineup for all three playoff games versus Minnesota in his first season.

As a sophomore, Trevor dressed for 24 games and lead the team in plus/minus at +4 for the season.  He began to show his physical toughness throughout the year.  He can dish out punishment along the boards and is adept at open ice hitting including the ability to throw a quality hip-check here and there.  

Trevor has been very responsible in his own end over the last two years of his career.  As a junior he dressed for every game and scored 4 goals while adding 8 assists.  He was able to do so because he is excellent in the offensive end with the puck on his stick.  He puckhandles like a forward, is shifty and sees his teammates well.  In my opinion, he should have earned a permanent power play spot on the blueline.

As I already mentioned Trevor can be very dynamic with the puck on his stick in the offensive end but he adds the ability to rush the puck with excellent speed.  He is gritty and tough as well and has shown himself to be a force to be reckoned with when it comes to defending his teammates.

At 5'10" Trevor is the classic undersized defenseman in that sense.  But his strength at 190lbs is notable and gives him the ability to play the stay-at-home role when necessary.  He does not get pushed off the puck along the boards but instead wins the overwhelming majority of those battles.  He utilizes his strength and positioning in all areas defensively.

Kevin has been an excellent student here at UAA, earning WCHA All-Academic awards in two seasons.  He is a demi-expert at dorm room fishing.  Nice hat there T.  That video makes me wonder if Nick Haddad's goldfish ended up on the hook.  Living in Alaska Trevor has no doubt had ample opportunities at Salmon fishing.  Hopefully, he bagged plenty of them.

Going forward, I'd have to imagine that if Trevor wants to play professional hockey that he'll start in the ECHL.  Wherever that is count on him becoming a fan favorite.  I've no doubt he'll mix it up as required by his coach.  But on the flip side hopefully his coach will see the offensive abilities he clearly possesses.  If he gets into a good situation there's every reason to believe he could progress to the AHL and have a  productive career there.  The NHL seems unlikely for Trevor.  They just value size in their defensemen too much.

Best of luck to you in all your future plans Trevor.  My wish is that you end your UAA career with a bang.  Hopefully, that means WCHA Final Five.  If you get a chance this coming weekend versus Wisconsin to put the puck on the net.  Take the chance.  Better yet, make the chance eh?  We fans will miss your intensity and contributions here at UAA.

Josh Lunden

Josh came to UAA from the highest scoring line in the BCHL with Chilliwack.  He was the leagues fifth leading points scorer during the 05/06 regular season with 81 points.

In his freshman season at UAA, Josh finished 3rd on the team in scoring.  He was tied for the goals lead with 11 and added 9 assists.  He earned a WCHA Rookie of the Week nod after the Seawolves swept UND in November.  He had three multiple-point nights during the season and dressed in 31 games

As a sophomore Josh earned the MVP honor from his teammates with 13 goals and 14 assists to lead the team in scoring.  He was named the Nye Frontier Tournament Most Outstanding Player and earned WCHA Offensive Player of the Week honors one week in October and played in 36 games.

Josh continued his excellent offensive play during his junior year again scoring 14 goals in 34 games.  He had two game-winners that season and was named to the Kendall Hockey Classic All-Tournament team.

This season Josh has missed games due to an ongoing shoulder issue and has only dressed for 23 games.  His 8 goals and 9 assists though have proven to be key additions and are good enough for 4th overall on the team despite missing so many games.  

Josh is a classic Western-Canadian power winger.  He's got both speed and size as well as a knack for getting the puck to the front of the net.  He's skated much of his career on a line with Kevin Clark and knows where to be for a playmaker to find him.  He's always been excellent in front of the net.  He has an underrated shot with a decent release.  Josh is forceful in the Shyiak possession style game.  He is strong on the puck, keeps his feet moving and always looks for a scoring option.  

Josh returned from injury in February and has been fully in game shape for several weeks and producing.  If the Seawolves are to advance past this weekends playoff series versus Wisconsin, Josh will have to provide some scoring.  For his career he has 47 goals and 37 assists in 124 games.  I'm betting those won't be his final numbers.

For the future, Josh will almost certainly get a tryout and earn a spot with an AHL team.  He has the size and physical attributes to contribute at that level.  An NHL shot at some point is definitely not out of the question depending on circumstances and his own determination.

Best of luck to you Josh with all your future endeavors.  We'll be proud of you and follow your hockey career with great interest.  When that part of your life eventually does end, we hope you'll use your UAA education for success in life.  It's been great to watch you these past four years.  You've always been one of my favorite players.  Go out with a bang and help lead the Seawolves to the Final Five.

Jon Olthuis

Jonny O came to UAA as a big prairie raised farm boy from Neerlandia, Alberta.  He played his junior hockey though in the BCHL with Vernon going 30-14-2 in 48 games with a 2.85 goals against average .905 save percentage.

Jon is 6'4" and 200lbs.  In his first three season at UAA he played in 63 total games.  This season he has appeared between the pipes in 25 games.

The first thing you hear from anyone associated with the UAA hockey program (or indeed anyone familiar with it) when you mention Jonny O is what a great person he is.  Well, that's exactly what he'd need to be with the way the Seawolves have played in front of him at times.  

Unfortunately, Jon's story here can't be told in terms of statistics and numbers.  Those simply don't do him justice.  He's obviously a big guy but surprisingly he uses more of the typical mixed-style you see from goaltenders these days versus just being a stand-up Dryden style netminder.  

He has had more than a few great games for UAA in his time here.  As a freshman in his first collegiate start he saved 34 shots against rival UAF in a 1-1 tie.  He was in the net for UAA first win at World Arena in Colorado Springs and even got his first assist and earned WCHA Rookie of the Week honors for that effort.  In his sophomore season he was the first Seawolves player to every be named WCHA Scholar-Athlete and played in 32 games.  He went unbeaten in three games against UAF and set the record for most ties (8) by any goaltender in UAA history.  

A goaltender's path in professional hockey is the most arduous of any player.  What the hockey future holds for Jon Olthuis is definitely uncertain.  If he wants to continue to play he'll have to find a spot with an ECHL team and show an ability to put together decent numbers.  It will help if the ECHL team plays more defense in front of him than the Seawolves have.

In any case, I wish the best in all things for your future Jon.  It's clear to me in my conversations with folks here in Anchorage that you're one of the great ones in terms of personage that have come through our program.  It's been a pleasure to watch your grace and sportsmanship throughout some tough times in the net.  We fans sometimes expect more from our goalies than we ought to.  I know at times you gave us that and more.  No doubt you'll get the call this weekend and I imagine you're well up to the task.  Be big, be a wall.  The Seawolves don't need you stand on your head to beat the Badgers but if you do they will for sure.

Ken Selby

If there is a single collegiate hockey player that better epitomizes the role of a hardworking underdog than Ken Selby I sure don't know their name.  There is a guy like Selbs on virtually every team across Division 1.  It's the guy that turns up at every practice hoping the coach will see his value and put him in the lineup that week.  But week after week goes by and it doesn't happen.  But week after week guys like Ken Selby continue to turn up and give it their all.  He represents the best in sport.  Ken Selby (and other guys like him) are the John Stephen Ahkwari's of collegiate hockey.

As a freshman Ken skated in 12 games.  As a sophomore he only saw action in 8.  But in one of those he scored his first goal and I can still recall it clearly in my memory.  A bouncing puck at center ice took a favorable deflection off a Gopher thigh, Ken was able to quickly jump on it.  He carried it across the blueline, cut towards center and unleashed a wicked wrist shot to tie the game.

His only other goal in a Seawolves sweater came in Fairbanks versus Mercyhurst.  I don't remember that one but wish I did.  Ken played 23 games as a sophomore.  Mostly not because the coach thought he deserved it, but instead because other guys were injured.  This year he has only appeared in 12 games.

It's always been a bit of a mystery to me.  Here's a guy that scored 36 goals in junior hockey.  He was invited to the first CJAHL prospects game and was the fastest player there.  Natural wheels like that don't come to every hockey player.  When a guy like Ken has his development stunted by a coach who doesn't quite see his attributes it's a damn shame.  Such things happen at every level and aren't the exclusive domain of Dave Shyaik and his staff.  But allow me to be blunt here.  Had Ken Selby been given the opportunity to play the same number of games as a freshman as Mitch Bruijsten and Daniel Naslund have this season then perhaps his story at UAA wouldn't be so bitter.  

Here's a guy that could literally skate circles around either Naslund or Bruijsten yet he only sees action in 12 games during his senior season?  It's not right.  I'm not one to be openly critical of my program's coach.  Sure, over time ... I've given Dave Shyiak a bad mark or two.  But it's been rare.  I'm proud though that I started in here with the "Free Ken Selby" stuff.  I should admit here that back in December, I was honestly ready to shut down this blog because I didn't think he'd been given a fair chance.  I was that fed up.  I didn't do so because there were a bunch of other players who deserved to have something written about them as well.  I honestly will never accept Shyiak's treatment of Ken and will always view it bitterly.

Going forward, I hope Ken pursues hockey professionally.  Find yourself a tryout with an ECHL team Ken and show them your speed.  That alone ought to generate an opportunity to play when some coach sees your wheels.  If you do that and get the chance, then I hope you can find the net often enough to make Dave sorry he didn't play you more.

I understand that Ken is a good student and is majoring in justice.  Isn't that ironic?  I don't think he's gotten hockey justice here at UAA.  I'll miss the fact that he's not on the UAA squad next year.  I'm sure he won't miss sitting in the stands knowing he has more skills than kids that are playing.  

My deepest most heartfelt wishes to Ken Selby for success in his future.  I hope he has taken the lemons he's received here and made the sweetest lemonade ever with them.  Making the best out of a bad situation is never easy, but I know that when one does the rewards are great.  My hat is off to you Ken for your dedication to your teammates and to the program through what was surely a very trying part of your life.

Jared Tuton

Jared Tuton is a coaches dream.  From his first year in a Seawolves sweater until this day he has done everything asked of him and done it competently.  Jared has played defense and forward just about equally as a Seawolf.  At times, he provided physicality for the #1 offensive line.  At other times, he led the 3rd and 4th checking/energy lines.

When required he dropped back to defense and provided solid play on either side.  Jared is big enough, strong enough and skates well enough to fill any role and he has done exactly that over his 4 years since walking on.

He played 36 games as a freshman almost exclusively at forward and picked up 2 assists.  As a sophomore he split his time at various positions but still dressed for 36 games.  He scored his first career goal versus DU and tallied his only other goal that season versus Michigan Tech.  As a junior he scored his third goal of his career and his only one to come while playing as a blueliner.

Jared was named Captain for this season on the strength on his do whatever it takes attitude.  It is somewhat surprising that he has no goals and no assists this season.  But sometimes, the pressures of captaincy can moderate a players ability to score.  I've seen such a thing happen more than just with Jared.  Nevertheless, his leadership and stalwart play on defense has been admirable this season.

It's always worthy of mention when a guy goes from walk-on to captain in the WCHA.  It's quite an accomplishment when you think about it.  A player who's told, "Sure, show up ... we'd like to see what you've got." But then goes on to become the captain of the team?  Very nice.  Can't stress that enough.  Charlie Kronschnabel did the same thing at UAA.

Congrats of course to Jared on accomplishing that through his career at UAA.  It should be something he's proud of for the rest of his life.  Going forward it's hard to imagine that Jared wouldn't continue to be some new "coaches player" at the next level.  But it might not be the best thing career-wise.  Sure it'll earn him that coaches respect but at the next level turnover in coaching can be high.  I know Jared has like playing defense this season because his dad told me that.  I think though for the future he really should consider calling himself a forward.  

Over his UAA career, I think Jared did more positive things during a game as a forward to propel the team than he has done as a defenseman.  That isn't to say his defensive play hasn't been solid.  It has.  But his speed and size going forward creates things that just aren't going to come from being a stay-at-home blueliner.

Best of luck with whatever path you choose Jared.  I hope that your experiences at UAA help direct your life in successful ways.  Your leadership and willingness to fill whatever role are going to be missed next season.  Lead this years team to the Final Five with a couple of wins over Wisconsin this weekend!

_________________________

In other seasons I've traditionally posted this tribute just before Senior Night.  I wasn't able to this season and am sorry for that.  But in any case, best of luck to all 7 of these excellent young men on their new paths in life.  College is almost over and for that I'm sure there is some sadness.  But life is about to start and it's challenges leave little room to pine for your old college days.  Look back on them fondly.  We UAA hockey fans will remember your names for a long time to come.

Come back as alumni and participate in events eh?  Anchorage hopes you view it as your 2nd hometown.

And oh yeah ... Josh and Jonny?  It's time to get your own tie now for official pictures.

Josh Lunden's Return Profiled at ADN

The Anchorage Daily News has a story today which features Josh Lunden's return from missing the last 11 games with a shoulder injury.  Josh has consistently been a force from close in scoring areas during his career and brings a willing presence to go into (and stay in) those tough scoring areas.  With regard to playing on Saturday, Josh told Doyle,

"It felt good to be back. I only played in a limited role, just to get my feet wet and get used to the speed of the game again. I felt good conditioning-wise. I was just trying to help my linemates, and I felt like we had good chemistry."

Coach Dave Shyiak commented about his return telling Mr. Woody,

"He had two or three quality scoring chances and drew a penalty. I thought he was about half a step slow, which is natural when you haven't played in two months, but I thought he came away with passing grades." 

"We'll go day-by-day, game-by-game, and hopefully he gets back to his usual game soon. Obviously, our team benefits when he plays expanded minutes. At the same time, you don't want to give him too much, too soon.''

Most importantly though, Josh went on to add,

"There was a sense of urgency to get back on the ice, because it's my senior year and I want to help the team achieve goals we haven't achieved in five or six years now."

Josh along with his fellow seniors must be a force down the stretch.  Leadership and experience are two important cogs on the wheel of winning.  Hopefully, with a continuing full and healthy lineup the Seawolves can begin to make the sort of run that is necessary for post-season success in the WCHA.  Best of luck to Josh for a successful return this weekend.  Potting a couple of goals this weekend ought to make him feel back in the groove.

UAA Has Nearly 1/4 of Euro D1 Players

The University of Alaska Anchorage has perhaps one of the most diverse set of nationalities participating in NCAA athletics (see list at bottom). The current roster for the Seawolves hockey team includes 5 players born in Europe out of a total in Division I of 22.

Foreign born hockey players are nothing new to NCAA hockey. Oftentimes, half (or more) of a team will be comprised of Canadian born players. European born players however are less frequently seen on NCAA ice rinks; in fact, they're almost a novelty. That isn't the case at UAA. It's unique geographic location puts it about the same distance from hockey-playing Europe as the most eastern parts of the U.S.

This season UAA added 2 new Euro players to it's existing stable of three. Senior defenseman Nils Backstrom (Stocksund, Sweden), junior defenseman Luka Vidmar (Ljubjana, Slovakia) and backup goaltender Dusan Sidor (Poprad, Slovakia) were already in the fold when freshmen Daniel Naslund (Nykoping, Sweden) and Mitch Bruijsten (Njimegen, Netherlands) came to the school. Next year's incoming recruits includes Gustav Bengtson (Stockholm, Sweden).

When I asked UAA Athletic Director Dr. Steve Cobb about the mix of athletes he noted that he was surprised to learn that UAA was such a large percentage of all of college hockey. He also said,

"We know that good coaches are interested to find good talent and good students. Where those student/athletes come from is a non-factor in our office."

He went on to say,

"Foreign-born athletes often seem to appreciate the opportunities that studying in the U.S. gives them. They can be more interested in making it a success. "

"When (former women's basketball player) Dasha Basova showed up here from Moscow, she was convinced she was here to play basketball and nothing else. By the end of her career she explored every option to live here."

Dr. Cobb speculated that if the total mix were to be 2/3 Alaska and Pacific Northwest and 1/3 the rest of the world that'd be ok with him. He's proud of all his coaches and how their progressively succeeding.

My count through the current 58 NCAA D-I hockey rosters revealed: 10 from Sweden, 3 from Finland, 2 from Norway, 2 from Slovakia, 1 from Slovenia, 1 from France, 1 from Denmark, 1 from the Netherlands and 1 from Germany. The same perusal showed there are only two other D-I programs with multiple-Euro players on their rosters.

Maine has 3 Swedish born players and Vermont has 2 from that same fine country. So comparatively speaking, UAA's five total Euro players is certainly remarkable. The other twelve schools with one Euro player each? RIT, Bowling Green, Notre Dame, Alabama-Huntsville, Bemidji St., Clarkson, Cornell, Union, Merrimack, Denver, Michigan Tech and SCSU.

Longtime Seawolves hockey fans will recall the list of former European players who have worn the green and gold since 1990: Martin Bakula, Petri Tuomisto, Mika Rautakallio, Thomas Kraft, Vladimir Novak, Pavel Hlavacek, Martin Stuchlik, Petr Chytka, and Ales Parez. They were all colorful in one way or another even if a couple didn't stay for all 4 years.

Bakula was the ultimate puck carrying/scoring defenseman; it seemed to me that Tuomisto couldn't stay out of the penalty box; Rautakallio was a buzzsaw who finished his career here with only one kidney; Kraft was just a huge guy; Novak was a great penalty killer; Hlavacek was hit by a falling piece of the Sully scoreboard; Stuchlik barely played for his first 3 years, then had a dream season as a senior; Chytka had loads of attitude; Parez had a great backhand often making a living behind the opponents net.

A look through the other 7 Seawolves rosters finds the following 24 non-Canadian/non-American born athletes:

Volleyball:
Marie Borowikow -- Eberwalde, Germany
Women's Basketball:
Viki Wohlers -- Wolfenbuettel, Germany // Hanna Johansson -- Gothenburg, Sweden
Men's Basketball:
Kevin White - Manly, Australia // Steve White - Manly, Australia // Bryce Arnott - Clyde, Australia // Liam Gibcus - Lysterfield, Australia
Cross Country/Track & Field:
Micah Chelimo - Kapkoi, Kenya // Marko Cheseto - Kapenguria, Kenya // Alfred Kangogo - Eldoret, Kenya // Paul Rottich - Kapsabet, Kenya // Mary Chepkoech - Kapsabet, Kenya // Ruth Keino - Kapcheno, Kenya // Miriam Kipngeno - Kapcheno, Kenya
Skiing:
Andreas Adde - Osteras, Norway // Halfdan Falkum-Hansen - Oslo, Norway // Egil Ismar - Baerum, Norway // Christopher Kollenborg - Haslum, Norway // Michael Schallinger - Oberndorf, Austria // Ida Bjerka - Tromsoe, Norway // Petra Gantnerova - Kezmarok, Slovakia // Steffi Hiemer - Krun, Germany // Kristina Repcinova - Banska Bystrica, Slovakia // Laura Rombach - Neukirch, Germany

Only the Gymnastics squad lacks someone that was born across an ocean. But hey ... they have a Canadian. And of course, UAA loves it's Canadian neighbors; being from the same continent and/or hemisphere is a good thing too.

Baldwin on INCH Recruit Rankings

Seawolf freshman defenseman Lee Baldwin (#7, 6'4" 203lbs) was listed today in the top 20 recruits for the 09-10 season as compiled by Inside College Hockey. Lee was the BCHL's leading scoring defenseman last season playing on the Victoria Grizzlies.

He scored 13 goals and added 41 assists. Lee was favorably compared in style to NHL'r Rob Blake. His tool set includes a reported bruising physical game, heavy shot and good skating.

Lee should see a high amount of ice time throughout the season. His maturity will likely serve him well in the competitive WCHA. Lee joins an experienced group of blueliners at UAA that includes 4 upperclassmen (Sr. Nils Backstrom, Sr. Trevor Hunt, Jr. Kane Lafranchise, Jr. Luka Vidmar), sophomore phenom Curtis Leinweber and freshman classmate NAHL Defensive Player of the Year Drew Darwitz.

This lineup comprises one of the most experienced and talented group of defenseman to skate for the Seawolves in any single season. They will be expected to again continue last year's 2nd lowest WCHA opposition shot total as well as generate an increase in the 18 goals tallied by last years defensive squad.

Congratulations to Lee on being named to this (subjective) list. I of course would have placed him higher than the #20 ranking he garnered.

The 09-10 Seawolf Junior Class

Bryce Christianson - 6'2" 195lbs, Goaltender
Expect Bryce to get the nod as the #1 goalie this year. While Jonny O's play last season was often stellar, Bryce was a more consistent winner. His abilities handling the puck outside the crease is one of the reasons why. He is an athletic goaltender with a mixed style.

Over his first year and a half in a Seawolf uniform I've seen him progress from relying heavily on his athletic abilities to utilizing positional strengths more often. Credit goaltending coach Scott Johnson for that progression.

I'm not sure whether Bryce has the natural talent of Nathan Lawson but I firmly believe he can be better than Nathan's UAA performances by a decent margin. It's a bit subjective of me to say so. Lawson was the most talented netminder at UAA since Paul Krake but unfortunately during his career at UAA he was subject to some major ups and downs. Bryce seems to be on a much more even keel and if he continues to play as he did during the 2nd half of last season then he (and the team) will be more successful.


Tommy Grant - 6'2" 194lbs, Forward
When Tommy was injured last season he was leading the WCHA in goals scored. He scored the most goals on the Seawolf team since Curtis Glencross nabbed 21. Tommy could have reached the 20 goal plateau but I think he was slow to come back up to speed after his injury. My guess at the time was that he was a little bit less physically confident.

Tommy can motor and has a real nice release on his shot. His added maturity should contribute to some new confidence. Passing up any shot opportunity shouldn't be in his playbook. He should shoot the puck every chance he gets.

Last year he benefitted from playing with an excellent playmaker with whom he had established a nice chemistry. Finding some chemisty this season will be a key for him. He'll definitley be an important part of the power play. In addition to his shooting prowess, he has the size to compete along the boards and in front of the opposition net. He'll bag a few greasy goals for sure.


Nick Haddad - 6'2" 198lbs, Forward
The third year in a Seawolf sweater is a big one for Nick. So far during his career we've seen Nick primarily fulfill roles on the 3rd or 4th line. But in his last year of junior hockey he showed an ability to put the puck into the net fairly often. He'll have to resurrect that ability as a junior this season. It was nice last year to see him bag a few goals and assists but the team will really need him to double his 10 point season.

Nick could also once again find himself as an important role player; meaning skating on a grinding line. He does those things extremely well and I'd imagine coach Shyiak appreciates that kind of work. If he is unable to increase his scoring, then his physical and defensive play will add to the team's overall success.


Kane Lafranchise - 6'1" 202lbs, Defenseman
Kane is a smooth skating, intelligent defenseman who has an excellent shot. He's pretty much the entire package that you want on the blueline. He's responsible in his own end and has the strength to compete with any oppostion forward. He breaks the puck out smartly whether he carries it or passes it. He's a quarterback on the powerplay and has developed an excellent first time shot.

Kane isn't often flashy but he certainly can be. Under the Shyiak/Blair system the green light is always on for the D to join the offense. Kane is one of the blueliners that can certainly do that. More focus in bringing the O is likely to be something the coaching staff will want from Kane. I've personally been hoping to see more offense generated from our fine group of blueliners. As a junior Kane is in a good position (along with Backstrom and Hunt) to help make that happen.


Craig Parkinson - 6'0" 187lbs, Forward
Production-wise Craig took a bit of a small step backward during his sophomore season but nevertheless matched his goal scoring from his first year. Craig is the best faceoff man (stats don't say so ... but I do) on the team last season and was often inserted for the most important drops. He'll do whatever it takes to win a faceoff.

I'd call Craig a bit of a mix, he can grind and he can score. He commented last year that he couldn't remember when he scored a goal from more than 3 feet away. But I fully believe he can do exactly that. In any case, this season the most important role that Craig can fill will be one that makes his linemates better.

Creating space and dishing the puck to whoever plays on his wing could be what we'll see from him this season. Craig is an emotional player and should bring some guidance, energy and leadership to younger players this season.


Luka Vidmar - 6'1" 195lbs, Defenseman
Luka is a converted forward. His first year playing D was during his last season of junior hockey. He has excellent wheels (does anyone on UAA's D not?) and last season he developed nicely. As a freshman, I remember seeing that he didn't always have his head up. Last season he always kept his head up. Luka is strong and determined as well.

I don't think he's lived up to his offensive potential yet. That's partly due to concentrating on defensive play. Not every single blueliner can join the offense on every single rush ya know? I believe that if Luka continues to improve his smart play that he'll contribute more often on the offensive end. He is certainlycapable of becoming s more dynamic player than we've seen so far duing his career.


Sean Wiles - 6'4" 211lbs, Forward
Steady progression has been the hallmark of Sean's career so far at UAA. As a sophomore he played in twice as many games as during his freshman year. I once thought he lacked some strength and speed but I strongly reject that assessment now. Sean is big and strong and can definitely get up and down the ice with speed. His three goals as a sophomore was good to see but he is capable of delivering more.

I'd expect Sean to use his size effectively this season. He could see some power play time this season in just such a role. Nothing wrong with disrupting the opposition in the scoring lanes eh? If he can get the most benefit out of his long reach then he could be a thorn in the side for anyone going up against him.

I'll have a sophomore class preview after the holiday weekend.

The 09-10 Seawolf Senior Class

Nils Backstrom - 6'1" 203lbs, Defenseman
Nils Backstrom was a late addition to the 06-07 UAA freshman class. We first learned he'd be coming to UAA on August 26th, 2006. Just in enough time to get fully enrolled in school and get fitted for a helmet. Over the course of his first three years Nils has matured and improved steadily. Last season he stepped up to the role of shutdown defensemen and fulfilled it very nicely. He sees the ice as well as anyone. His skating is top notch; he can often be seen gaining steps on opposition forwards and dispossessing them.

He is more than strong enough to handle pretty much any opposition forward. He continuously shows his smarts on the ice with good breakout passes and/or taking the responsibility to move the puck up on his own. His career 6 goals and 21 assists are perhaps less than many of us expected but the 4 goals he scored as a junior could be a nice sign for the season to come. He did miss 18 games as a sophomore due to injury. His plus/minus for this past season was a stellar (team best) +10.

Nils experience and maturity will serve him well as a team leader this season. His positives on the ice will contribute to overall team success. Last year, I said that he played virtually mistake free hockey. I'd assume that will be the case again.

Kevin Clark - 5'9" 171lbs, Forward
Kevin Clark is plain and simply the most dynamic player for the Seawolves. At times, it seems that he can make things happen by sheer force of will. Over his first three years Kevin has netted 28 goals and 43 assists. He's almost certain to reach the 100 point career plateau this season.

Kevin will be responsible for much of the team's success this year via his playmaking, scoring and mental play. Kevin can be a bit of a pest and seems to play better when he's jawing a bit with the opposition.

Kevin is both an emotional leader and a leader by example on the ice. He can make magic with the puck and make his linemates better. He is not intimidated by physical play and even likes to mix it up. He will be counted on to play smart this season and while I won't judge him on his 236 career penalty minutes; taking a penalty or two less would be positive. The team will need him to put up his best season stats ... both goals and assists.

Trevor Hunt - 5'10" 190lbs, Defenseman
Trevor Hunt has become a beast during his first three years in a Seawolf uniform. It wasn't that this guy wasn't tough as a freshman. He was. But last year he really came into his own as a college hockey player. He's always shown his physical abilities and flashes of offensive prowess. But as a junior he put every facet of his game together in positive ways.

He substantially dropped his penalties/game average. He tied for the lead in goals from blueliners. He continued his punishing physical play with opponents. He showed over and over that he's got a real nice set of boots.

His vision moving up the ice is as good as anyones. He can dynamically either dish the puck smartly or deke the opposition out of their breezers as required. He's both quick and strong. His play along the boards is a bit reminiscent of Darren Meek who never came away from the boards without the puck in his possession.

Josh Lunden - 6'2" 202lbs, Forward
In every year as a Seawolf Josh Lunden has scored double-digits in goals. 11 as a freshman, 14 in both his sophomore and junior years. Josh is a hard charging power winger who plays the cycle game as effectively as anyone. He knows how to put himself into scoring positions.

He's been very consistent over his career in terms of his style of play. He knows how to use his size against opponents and possesses enough speed to skate with anyone.

Josh is capable of putting up bigger numbers if he is allowed to focus more on scoring. He is a very responsible player always trying to make opportunities for his linemates. If he could perhaps focus a bit more on scoring then I see no reason he couldn't bag 20 goals. As with the other seniors his maturity and experience will be strong contributors to the team's overall success.

Jon Olthuis - 6'4" 200lbs, Goaltender
Jon Olthuis is unflappable. Hockey mouthpieces love to say that about a goalie. In Jonny O's case it happens to be the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth.

Jon is a great big guy and covers a lot of the net. He played in 10 games as a freshman and as a sophomore was asked to take on the number 1 role when Nathan Lawson turned pro early. He had a bit of an up and down season but learned a lot and improved steadily.

Last season saw a number of games where he flat-out stood on his head. His career numbers don't look impressive but he's often not recieved the support necessary to have great stats. Jonny will likely earn a fair amount of playing time this season competing with the more talented junior Bryce Christianson. If he gets those starts at the right times he'll be an awesome alternative. He'll also bring a strong leadership presence on the bench during the game.

Ken Selby - 6'1" 195lbs, Forward
I always try to be fair and balanced with my comments regarding the individual Seawolves. I doubt any regular reader though wouldn't have noticed my fondness for Ken Selby. Why do I always pine for him to get more ice time? Because he's got jets in his boots. He can fly.

I can't help liking a hockey player that motors. To be fully honest there's a somewhat legitimate debate about Ken's hockey instincts. In other words, some people don't think he knows where he ought to be when he ought to be there. It's a tough argument to counter when over his career the guy has played in a total of only 43 games.

Last season he dressed for 23 games. He didn't necessarily see major ice time in those games. I can't begin to guess how many games Ken will play this coming season. But I will guess that the more ice time he sees the more he'll contribute. He's an excellent stick handler with great wheels. At minimum he could be a very effective penalty killer who perhaps creates shorthanded scoring chances.

Jared Tuton - 6'1" 202lbs, Forward/Defenseman
If there is another reason Ken Selby hasn't cracked the lineup as often as I'd have liked, it is Jared Tuton. This year's Captain is quite simply the epitome of a coaches player. He's got a wide range of quality skills and not only understands what his coach wants/needs, he fulfills those for the coach without hesitation.

Jared has played virtually every position on the ice at some point during his career. He's played on the #1 line and contributed; he's been an ultra-responsible defensive forward; played in all special teams situations and led by example on nearly every shift he's taken as a Seawolf. That is exactly why he's the Captain this season.

Note: Yes, I chose pictures with WCHA opponents with their sticks on these profiled Seawolf players. All their fans complain endlessly about "clutching and grabbing". I just thought I'd show some clear examples of their own players doing exactly that. The favored WCHA check appears to be the cup check. What is up with that? All these opposition players are fixated on Seawolf crotches?

Look for a Junior Class profile in a few days time.

UAA Release Details Freshman Class

In a move reflecting the presence of syzygy in our little corner of the college hockey universe, the University of Alaska Anchorage has released a statement from Head Coach Dave Shyiak which details the addition of each of the players I welcomed here yesterday. Here are some quotes from the release:

Lee Baldwin (6'4" 203lbs):
Victoria Grizzlies general manager Jackson Penney said,

"Lee worked very hard this summer to become a complete player. He's a great skater for his size and has both good shooting and passing abilities. Lee is very good in the locker room and leads by example."

Mitch Bruijsten (6'4" 195lbs):
Sioux City Musketeers coach Todd Knott said,

"I am very happy for Mitch and his family right now. Two years ago he took a chance and moved a long way from home in hopes of this opportunity. He will be playing for a well respected program at UAA while working towards a college degree. It's just another great example of what junior hockey can do for a young man."

Chris Crowell (6'2" 205lbs):
Jason Williamson, head coach of the Vernon Vipers said,

"Chris is a great teammate and will do what it takes to win. Crowell is a strong skater with good size and plays a punishing role. He can also chip in offensively."

Alex Gellert (6'1" 170lbs):
Cowichan head coach Scott Robinson said,

"Gellert is a very dynamic player who moves the puck well. He has great feet and a lot of potential."

Daniel Naslund (6'4" 205lbs):
Vasteras coach Jorgen Holmberg said,

"Daniel has very good size and play-making ability. He's a smart player that understands both ends of the ice. He goes to the net hard and is difficult to knock off the puck. Daniel is a talented player with a good attitude that was able to produce offense for us."

Mickey Spencer (6'0" 189lbs):
Cowichan Capitals coach Robinson said,

"Spencer is a pure finisher with a great shot and release, who will score when he has the opportunity. He is a great kid to have on your team.

Drew Darwitz (5'8" 165lbs):
Josh Hauge Ice Dogs coach said,

"Our organization is very happy for Drew to be getting an opportunity at a great program like the University of Alaska Anchorage. Drew has been a big part of our success the past two seasons. His hard work paid off this season as Drew led all defensemen in scoring this past season and was voted the NAHL Defenseman of the Year."

Tyler Currier (6'1" 198lbs):
Dave Boitz, the head coach of the Avalanche

"We are excited for Tyler as this is a dream come true for him. He has always wanted to play for UAA and this is a great opportunity for him. Tyler will bring a good skill set with very good skating ability and size. He will do what it takes to win."

Transfer Brad Gorham will be eligible to play in January. Scott Warner will be sitting out his transfer year and hit the ice next fall. Finally, Dave Shyiak said,

"I think this class addresses a lot of our needs and will give us depth at every position. We've brought in a good blend of size, skill and speed. The transition to college hockey is a big step and we will need our new players to contribute to our success this year. Our staff and players are excited to get things started and feel we are ready to move ahead in the WCHA."

2008-2009 Senior Tribute

I enjoy watching my team play hockey. I'm grateful that I've seen almost every single minute of hockey the Seawolves have played this season. Thanks to the folks that hooked up the GCI deal for that even if that is someone at GCI (whom I generally dislike as a company). UAA fans are lucky for getting to see so much of their team. Lots of other WCHA fans don't get to see their team nearly as often as we do. Awesome stuff but, watching on TV isn't nearly the same as a live game. Even in a half-full Sullivan Arena there is a palpable excitement that just doesn't exist watching a game on TV. So I'm a bit jealous of UAA fans this weekend that are road-tripping to UAF. I wish I was because Saturday night is the last chance to see this group of Seawolves live. Those of you going to Fairbanks get two more live games. Of course there's probably a few of you that will get to see the team live in Duluth and perhaps even follow them on the road for the playoffs. I envy you as well. So before I sit down and watch my last live game of the year I wanted to take today to express my thanks to three guys that I'll probably never get to see play hockey live again. This year's Senior Class is one of the smallest in my memory. 3 guys: Shane Lovdahl, Jeremy Smith and Mat Robinson are all winding up their NCAA careers. Wow. 4 years goes so much faster when your a 48 year old fan than it does when your 30. Sigh.

Shane Lovdahl

Shane has had an interesting career at UAA. He came in fairly highly-touted. He had a great career with Cedar Rapids in the USHL where he was a fan favorite and still holds the club record for points by a defenseman in a single season. As a freshman Shane hit the ice at UAA and showed much promise. His 4 goals and 9 assists were a quality addition that season. He showed fans that he had a cannon hidden in his stick. His sophomore season was shortened due to a niggling NCAA rule about the classes he took. Apparently, he took and passed the minimum number of classes but somehow or another he was declared ineligible and had to sit for half a season.

As a Junior Shane began to show another side of his game. His soft hands became evident especially in the offensive end of the ice. There were times I thought Merit Waldrop had donned his jersey as he put moves on opponents that were quite simply sweet. This season Shane has certainly had perhaps his most interesting season. He has played more at forward than he has on the blueline. The departure of two forwards early in the year forced the move and Shane answered the call. The work he has done at that end has been overwhelmingly positive regardless of his point production. It's the sign of a consummate team player to fill a role as a fourth line forward during your last season. Shane is a class act. He's been tagged as not having the quickest feet but I don't subscribe to that as a negative for him. He's smart and his stick skills are so far above average that his foot speed isn't an issue.

Over the next couple of years I'd expect Shane should be able to find a path to some sort of AHL career. His physical play and abilities on the point (i.e... cannon of a shot) would benefit any AHL team. The NHL could be a possibility for him but honestly he's probably a bit of a longshot. That perhaps might be exactly the sort of personal challenge he thrives on and I hope he makes me wrong. Thank you Shane for giving me the pleasure over the last four years of your efforts for the Seawolves. I've enjoyed watching you and have always wanted to see you succeed. Local guys like you are very important to this program and always among my favorites. Best of luck with the remaining season and your future career whether it includes hockey or not.

Mat Robinson

I was excited to have Mat join the Seawolves from the first time I heard he was coming. Mat came to UAA from the Calgary Royals in the AJHL and was very much anticipated as every scouting report tagged him as an excellent playmaking puck-carrying defenseman. The scouting reports were exactly right. He is the very definition of an undersized blueliner that can really "bring it". Mat is speedy, smart and one of the best passers I've ever seen on the blueline.

In one of the first games I saw Mat play he made a cross ice pass from deep in his zone to the opposite blueline that absolutely took my breath away. I can still see that pass when I close my eyes. Nothing came of it but it was so absolutely perfect that at that moment I knew Mat would be a very key player on the team. Mat's scoring contributions may have been modest when compared with some other NCAA blueliners but I wouldn't trade him for anyone. He hits like a frigging freight train. There is nobody in the league who can compare to him when throwing a hip-check. I couldn't begin to count the number of opponents I've seen flipped over by Robbie when they might have otherwise broken in for a chance.

This season we've seen the culmination of his growth as a player. He leads with his play. His patented rushes from his own goal line up the ice are almost always productive. A blueliner flying past opponents with the puck and creating something offensively is a thing of beauty and Mat has created more of those than anyone in a Seawolf uniform since Martin Bakula. I'll miss Robbie greatly. Best wishes to him in his future career. His size might create some concern for potential pro coaches but if he gets the right opportunities I could see him in the NHL at some point. Thanks for the 4 years Robbie, you've been a stud in your time here. It is my greatest hope that someone at the next level recognizes that.

Jeremy Smith

Jeremy is an absolutely great college hockey story. If I had press access and was getting paid to write I'd nab Jeremy for an interview and let him tell his story. By almost any measure this is a guy that perhaps shouldn't be playing Division 1 hockey. Jeremy had an extended 4 year junior career. After 3 years in the USHL this undersized defenseman got no offers from any school. So he moved on to play an overage year in the NAHL and became a big fan favorite in Youngstown as an enforcer. I doubt there is a Seawolf player that would want to drop the gloves and face Jeremy. He's tough as nails. Just look at him. He oozes hard-ass. He had 198 minutes of penalties in his final junior season.

With no college offers Jeremy came home to Anchorage to get on with his life. He enrolled at UAA but walking past the rink was too much for him. He got in touch with the coaching staff, laced em up and showed them enough to earn a roster spot. Jeremy is one of a couple of hundred guys playing college hockey who are absolutely responsible for keeping the sport going. These are guys that toil in near complete anonymity. They show up to every practice and make their teammates better. Look at any roster in the NCAA and you'll find a guy like Jeremy. Some people might refer to them as benchwarmers but that's such an unfair term. They are team warmers.

He likely isn't going to play professional hockey unless he gets a spot as a fighter; and honestly ... what pro team hires a 5' 9" fighter? So I'm guessing this is it for Jeremy. When the Seawolves are done for the year I'd guess Jeremy will be done for his career. In his first year Jeremy saw action in 1 game. But this season when the 2 guys left an opportunity presented itself and Jeremy took that bull by the horns and rode it hard. Early in the season he was a monster on the checking line. He hit everything that moved and hit it hard. And he came oh so close a few times to nabbing his 1st collegiate goal. I can't think of anything sweeter than for Jeremy to nab that first goal somewhere in these last few games. I'm not sure if his broken wrist is healed completely but I doubt that would stop him from playing if given the choice. I hope he makes it back into the lineup this weekend versus Fairbanks. As a local kid I can imagine there'd be nothing he'd like better than to play against them.

Saturday night is Senior Night. Be there to show your appreciation for these guys. College sports are special. Being a successful student/athlete is difficult at best and every kid that gives us fans their best on the ice while doing classwork deserves a standing ovation for their efforts. Get to the rink and join me on Saturday. I'll be standing ... and as always on Senior night, I'll have a tear in my eye.

The 08-09 Freshman Class

A freshman's job in the WCHA is too adapt. A new player has to first adapt to the hectic routine that is common for all 1st year college students. Then the player has to learn how best to integrate playing hockey into that routine. Then the player can hit the ice and learn how to adapt to the faster game. Anyone expecting really big things out of a freshman in the WCHA is going to be disappointed 99 percent of the time. So we fans have to be patient. That said, there is still much to like in the three skaters and one goalie described below.


Curtis was the leading scorer amongst defensemen in the AJHL last season. Yes. I know he is listed @ #25 and as a forward. According to the UAA web bio on Curtis he played "the majority of the season" on defense. My fan forum perusing enlightened me to Okotoks defensive style last year and I'd read that at some point Curtis was playing forward. It's difficult to say exactly how many additional points came when he was playing forward instead of defense without going to a boxscore of everygame (and I ain't going to do that). So since he is coming here to play defense and played the majority of last seasons games at defense, then I'm proclaiming him the highest/leading scoring defensemen for the 07-08 AJHL season. Does that get your attention? A kid doesn't accomplish that without a great set of wheels, a heads up style and a great sense of the "game" around him. Interesting to note here that one-time recruit prospect Adam Henderson (who picked Michigan State over UAA) finished 8 points lower than Curtis on the leading scorers table. And he played forward all year. Curtis could be a real real real nice find. The last kid called Curtis we had from Alberta turned out that way. Here's hoping that lightning strikes twice eh?


Tyler Moir was much more than just a top ten scorer in the AJHL last season (8th on the overall scoring table), he was a top ten penalty minute leader as well! That's a good thing. It shows me that along with having good size (6'1" 205lbs) he plays with some attitude. The coaching staff will be emphasizing ways to utilize that attitude positively while eliminating the penalty minutes. Tyler won't be the first kid to come to UAA with lots of penalty minutes on his resume'. He won't be the last. Tyler's last coach told me in an email that he was a prototypical power forward. I think when we look through the UAA lineup that we see more than just a couple of those sorts of guys in a Seawolf jersey. You have to have an effective cycling game as part of the repetoire in the WCHA and guys like Tyler turn that crank. If Tyler can manage as nice a freshman season as several of last years then he'll have been effective. If he excels then it's a bonus.


In the recent tradition (it's beyond a trend now) of large framed good skating forwards Jade comes to UAA from the AJHL as well. He played for Curtis Glencross's old team, the Brook Bandits. Jade scored a moderate amount last season (14g-26a in 60 games) finishing wth the 4th highest point total on his team. He's 6'3" 200lbs. He was named the team's MVP for the playoffs; which only lasted for the 3 games it took for Tyler Moir's team to sweep them. Jade doesn't have big stats preceding him. I don't find any written talent analysis of his play on the internet. Regardless of any hype or lack of hype, Jade will have the same set of challenges to meet in as the other freshmen. And as with them we'll have to patiently sit back and watch their development.

Dusan Sidor
Recruiting skaters and recruiting goaltenders are two different things in terms of timing. A school needs a new defenseman or two and a forward or two every year. But a team doesn't need a goalie every year. Because of that timing is everything. Both for the school and the player the timing needs to match. Dusan Sidor thought he'd made a good step verbally committing to a D-III school last season until a few days later when UAA called. He quickly rescinded even though he was probably going from solid playing time to what must only be a "no promises" situation. Good for him. That tells me he's confident enough to believe that he can impress the staff with his practice play and earn playing time. In a rotation with two guys in front of you that's a gutsy move to make. I don't see Sidor as a kid with no ambition happy to sit on a WCHA D-1 bench for 2 years. His dad is a former goalie and goalie coach. He came to the U.S. to develop as a player and by all accounts was capable of some outstanding play from time to time up in Wasilla. Hard to know if he'll get any ice time that isn't a result of filling in for an injury his first year. But who knows ... maybe NOBODY will score on him in the first two weeks of practice. I'd bet he'd get a start that way though.

The 08-09 Sophomore Class

The largest class in the Seawolf program this season is the sophomores. 10 players; a combined 224 games amongst 8 regular skaters last season. These guys are mostly all not rookies anymore. They've earned their stripes. And as sophomores they'll each need to step up their individual play and production for the team's success.



Jeff's eligibility didn't begin until the beginning of the 2nd semester. He played just one game. I remember liking what I saw. As an All-NAHL 1st team defenseman he comes with a nice resume of junior accomplishments (15g-24a in 59 games). He was 4th in the league scoring among that league's defenders. Jeff's freshman year certainly didn't provide much in terms of on-ice experience. No doubt he isn't a freshman off the ice but there'll be a period of games for him this season when still is a freshman on the ice. How long that is likely to last is difficult to guess. I hope that Jeff can "come up to speed" relatively quickly. It looks and seems like he will grow into a contributor with time.



Bryce showed more than a couple of flashes of excellence during his limited play over the 2nd half last season. He is definitely more athletic than most 6'2" goalies. I was surprised by the quickness of both his upper and lower body. Bryce will provide a needed element of competition for the starting goaltender spot. I wouldn't be surprised to see that competition go deep into the season. It is a situation that has the potential to make both guys play better when it's their chance.



I'm not quite sure what I should expect from Winston this season. Well at least in terms of scoring that's accurate. But in terms of effort and commitment on the ice I know exactly what to expect. One-hundred percent effort. That was Winston last year. He bagged a couple of important goals along the way. He finishes his checks. He turns well from the boards toward the net. He's strong on his feet. He's got good hands and vision. He plays with intensity. Winston had outgrown the rookie label before he was injured late in the season. I hope he can find more ways as a sophomore to get himself on the board. His contribution is needed.



When I think about Tommy I think about a quick release i.e... a Brett Hull shot. Ok. That might be a bit of an exaggeration but at least the concept is there. Whether Tommy can pull the trigger quickly isn't the question. He can. Like every other forward in the sophomore class he is going to have to find a way to do that more. More shots = more goals. And more goals are needed. Tommy has the size and wheels that Coach Shyiak likes up front. He should be able to use that size to gain the space he needs to throw the puck on the net.



Nick is a big solid kid with a good pair of wheels. He looks strong and hits hard. He played in 26 games last year. Of forwards that played in more than 50% of the games he was the only one though that didn't find the back of the net. He averaged less than one shot per game. If Nick is to find similar ice time this coming season I'd think he needs to find the net or become a strong role player for a checking line and/or a penalty killer. Another big body (6'2" 200lbs) charging hard into the other teams zone is always a useful asset.



Kane is an important part of an improved transition game for this years team. He has an outstanding ability to find the crease for a pinpoint pass. When the pass isn't available or he simply sees an opportunity, Kane is very adept at carrying the puck himself. Toward the end of his freshman season I could see that he was no longer a rookie. He showed he could assert himself during a game and make potentially game changing plays. He is a valuable part of the power play and logs time on the penalty kill as well. His vision from the back is a critical component to building and executing an effective attack. Improving the puck movement from the back to the front has been an ongoing project since Campbell Blair came on board. And each year we have seen improvement. This season it may be Mat Robinson's defense to lead but next year Kane will be the big dog. I feel better (even inspired) with both Mat and Kane in the lineup.



As with the aforementioned Grant and Daychief, Brad McCabe's production this year will be a direct link to whatever success the team has. Brad is goal scorer first. While he is going to have more than a few occasions where he contributes an assist, the majority of his impact is going to be Brad putting the puck on and in the net. Another player with that "Brett Hull-style" quick release Brad should become more of a threat as the season goes along and he finds his areas. Can he double his goal total from last year? I hope so. I don't think it's unreasonable to hope for 12 or 13 goals from Brad. Anything more will be icing on the cake. Brad was 2nd on the team last year in penalties.



Inside College Hockey was right. Craig is definitely a player to watch in the Seawolves lineup this year. Craig had 7 goals on 45 shots. He remarked in his INCH profile that all of his goals come from the doorstep. Stay on the damn doorstep then Craig ... eh? Stay there all season and bang the biscuit in. Just as with Brad McCabe, the number of times Craig lights the lamp is going to be a key factor in UAA's success.



Luka is a convert. In his last year of juniors Luka started skating on the blueline. Last season I could see steady growth in his effectiveness. Luka brings a more good skating to the blueline. He played in 30 games last season and was another freshman who lost his rookie label earlier rather than later during the season. Luka took an occasional bad penalty in his own end last season. It certainly wasn't any sort of trend but he'll need to stay focused in his own end first this season to eliminate that.



My book on Sean would be themed with surprise. As I mentioned I had doubts when I saw him skate in preseason as to whether he could crack the lineup. But as he got his chances, Sean showed enough intensity and effort to earn additional chances. When those next chances came he doubled-down and got the job done; picking up 4 assists along the way. One of his assets is his long reach. With the new depth in the Seawolf forward lineup Sean is likely to find himself battling for a spot. It'll be a crucial year for him in terms of development. If he can earn enough playing time and find a way to add to the bottom line then I think he'll gain confidence and we'll see a solid 4 year player who contributes something important along the way.