Nothing short of last year's effort and execution in two playoff wins versus the Gophers will likely result in success this year. There are plenty of guys on the squad that know exactly what that took. There's more than a couple of rookies who could step up in big ways. Everyone has to play their best hockey game of the year as individuals and combine that with a committed team effort. Nothing short of that.
That's what I think. Share your thoughts in the comments. I won't be doing any sort of live chat during the games other than the Chatango box in the right column. If I can work the iphone magic. The game is on GCI Channel 1 and Fox Sports North (whatever channel).
252 comments:
1 – 200 of 252 Newer› Newest»if we are going to beat the gophers, it will help big time if Docken or warner is in the lineup to play with Currier. No offense to Gellert as he did as best as he could playing D against BSU, but he's suited better to be playing the center position and in my opinion one of our better faceoff guys.
GO Seawolves!!!
Seawolfpunk
Peanut Farm to watch the game ....Legion didn't work out. See you all there
Richard,
Cools. I'll be there.
mitch brujstein cut from the sea wolves... great coaching dave... been a real treat this year
what do you mean he was cut? theres two games before the season is over? this isn't juniors... like he's not coming back this year or what? don't post this non sense without actually giving details anon 625
apparently mitch quit going to classes-same thing as tommy grant- cause he wasnt planning on finishing school, but rather playing bro after the season...and dave decided it would be a wise move to send him home today. any opinions out there wether this move is a smart one? or a standard dave-cover his own ass- move
Lol, like his pro prospects are going to get him higher than the ECHL.
If true....IF, then yeah, if he is not attending class and does not plan on returning then he's off. Why wouldn't he be? This is no coaching shenanigans, pretty simple in my view. These guys are Student athletes they have a commitment to remain a student in order to play. People forget that I guess.
While unfortunate (if it is true) I agree that Coach Shyiak made the right choice. Mike's right, these players are students first and foremost and athletes second. Shyiak has always made it very clear that his priority is seeing these guys develop as students as well as athletes. Not much more to say, really.
Is that all there was to it? They bring him all the way to Minnisota and then turn around and send him back? Great management!! Somethings wrong for all these kids to quit and want out!!
Anon11:28. I agree wholeheartedly. Obviously there is a fracture between players and coaches. Time for a change. Shyiak has worn out his welcome IMHO.
If He doesn't want to go to class He is not a student. Why reward a dropout with playing a playoff game. The message is clear.... not a student not a UAA student athlete, plain and simple. no work ..no reward. good luck Mitch.
Let me get this straight? Shyiak took Mitch on the trip then didn't play him tonight? He was also a healthy scratch last Saturday night after playing great on Friday.
Shyiak has lost the pulse of this team ... players ineligible, players leaving early, players unhappy. Time to replace him before we go the way of Tally (and Talafous was fired two years too late!).
The last time a coach sent a player home from a road trip in the playoffs, well it was Talafous. We don't need another Talafous. Something like 40 players left under his leadership and the same thing is starting to happen now under Shyiak.
Come on Donald, you have to see this???
No offense rears its head again. But what can you do? Great effort though. Put in more hard work tonight and maybe get some breaks.
As a coach of a division one hockey team you are the CEO. That means you have a pulse on all things associated with your program. How does Shyiak not know this player was not attending classes. He was a healthy scratch last weekend and then bring him down to the playoffs and then remove him. That is ludicris. Actually unacceptable.
UAA had 7 power plays last night and once again they fail to crack the 20 shots on goal mark. Working hard and keeping the score close is nothing to celebrate. A loss is a loss and the facts are...this program has NEVER been a bigger mess. There is absolutely nothing to look forward to. 2-7-1 was the record against the teams (Mankato,Mich Tech,Bemidji) who will be in the new WCHA so don't get excited about having success in the future with this head coach at the helm.
Anon@718,
I'll ask you the same question as anyone that critical of Shyiak. With similar enough winning percentage as every other coach UAA has had in the WCHA what do you think hiring another head coach at the salary UAA pays is going to accomplish?
UAA's lack of success on the ice is directly related to how much money is spent on the program. Look around college hockey at coaching salaries and you'll see the most successful programs have the highest paid coaches.
So unless and until the institution decides that nothing less than winning will be considered success then you and I and every Seawolves fan will have to learn to appreciate successes like 14 scholar-athletes named to the team and/or the occasional upset.
Consistent winning will only come when the program spends more money all around. Sure they need a rink on campus ... but more money spent on getting more "elite" level recruits would be welcome.
So if you want to dump Shyiak ... who are you going to find to take on a job that quite frankly is probably becoming frustrating for him? Another person deserves to work a job that isn't fully supported by the institution?
It's a shame to say but in the NCAA if you don't spend money up front you are not going to win. And who here thinks that citizens of Alaska support spending state money on University sports? The freaking regents sure as hell don't. The legislators getting their jobs with promises of cutting govt spending sure don't.
There's also the problem of Steve Cobb having little real authority in his job. Look at the org chart ... Cobb works for the "Administrative Dept" ... Athletics isn't it's on department. Bill Spindle (a fine "administrator" I'm sure) has the purse strings.
Sports administration at UAA needs more money and needs reorganized. It's not about Shyiak.
Why hasnt the alumni been taken seriously then ? Im confused by Cobb /Shyiak /UAA love triangle that only makes the attendance and revenue go down. UAA use to be a hard place to get a decent ticket at , now I can walk up sit in the 7th row mid ice and have no one near me
DD, how do explain UAF's success ? Sure they've been down last two years, but they've made NCAA's, hosted conference tournament games, their rink sucks. Your argument doesn't hold water when you compare UAA/UAF'S recent success.
Dump Shyiak and Cobb!
What type of tutoring program does UAA have for its players? Do they tutor all the players on the team, both scholarships and walk-ons? Shouldn't any player who is cutting classes be immediately identified and have the situation addressed? I don't understand how a situation like Bruijstein's could get so out of hand if there is a tutoring program and they're doing their job, like filing progress reports.
Anon 1:20 spot on. How can we be asleep at the wheel on these matters. UAA's lack of success is a myriad of problems not easily solved with a wave of the wand.
Sounds like Mitch just didn't want to be a student anymore. Can't tutor a guy who doesn't want it. Our guys are student athletes, no one is being arrested like at other schools and they graduate. We should be proud of the effort on the ice and in the classroom. Good luck tonight sea wolves.
Diddled his buttonhole, that's funny!
Anon 1:20 is certainly spot on. If we're supposed to have student athletes, let's support them on and off the ice. I have a feeling that UAA doesn't know how to support student athletes...just a hunch.
I honestly think Shyiak could get this team on the right track but not in this environment. Unfortunately, the baby needs to go out with the bath water.
I don't know what the hell is going on regarding DDs statement that Cobb doesn't have a say...if we don't have a Athletic Department why and the hell do we have an Athletic Director. It's time for a friggin change... in DDs poetic style FUCK Cobbs and the Administrative Dept (or whatever they call it) Change at the top needs to happen now!
This coming from a season ticket hold and a family of five who brings a boat load of kids to Friday (green n gold) and Saturday (jersey night) … UAA can count on one less season ticket holder unless changes at the top happen soon. My kids really liked the Aces game last night…not my preference but you gotta admit winning is fun and they put on a helluva show.
I'm a long time UAA fan, and don't know about the politics of the program, but I believe Shyiak is a really solid coach. I do think that UAA really needs an 'on campus' rink in order to be a proper contender in any league they're in.
I know it was damn hard this year, but don't give up hope fans, the best is yet to come.
I have to agree with Donald. Whatever your opinion of Mr. Shyiak is (I happen to think he is a damn fine coach), the real problem goes all the way up to the lofty board of regents in Fairbanks. It is my firm belief that there is a vested interest among those up in the frozen city to keep UAA in the second tier status and thus all of its athletics as well.
Until that stranglehold is relieved I honestly don't think any change of coaching or AD will amount to anything. I think coach Shyiak and AD Cobb are doing all that they can within the framework they were placed in. Unfortunately that framework was doomed to fail from the get go. Until the board of regents gets their heads out of their asses (or suddenly comes to realize that there is more to the world than Fairbanks) it is my firm belief that it won't matter who we have as coach or AD. It. Just. Won't.
Donald is right. There is so much more to UAA being a successful team than just swapping coaches.
Alaskana hit the nail on the head ……the regents in the frozen village by the Chena slough want to keep UAA down and not fund the largest campus in the state . How many have talked to their Rep’s in Juneau about the funding to UAA? I have. The Wells Fargo Center was for student recreation activities only when built. Show me a campus with 20,000 students and their work out room is 3 converted handball courts with 2 man door opening between them. Locker rooms smaller than some walk-in closets on the hillside. Women’s teams have to share a locker room. The hockey team has a larger locker room because the booster club funded the construction of that room.
Anon above news flash ... We are not going to produce winning seasons in the current WCHA. End of story. There are a myriad of problems with UAA's hockey program and dumping the coach to start anew I for one don't believe is the correct answer. What is the correct answer? I don't know.
I ask what has Dave done to keep his job. Regardless of the non funding from the university, better coaching and recruiting could provide better results. On and off the ice. Dave is about the worst excuse for a head coach when it comes to public relations as well. He is never out doing speaking engagements or interacting with the local youth hockey players. He pulled the plug on the seawolf youth hockey camps in the summer. Why do we have to settle for less than mediocre. It's been 7 years under Dave and is time for a new voice, attitude, and coaching philosophy. The influential alumni need to almost demand this change. Stand up and be vocal as a group.
Anon 1:54. AGREED completely, too many boneheads up top including CornCOBB are happy with the status quo. Complacency at the bottom has been he accepted feeling towards UAA hockey for too long. Change Need's to happen now.
People who say the current coaching staff is doing a good job really need a reality check. Good? 8 losing seasons...not a sniff of home ice...at or near the bottom of the league standings year in year out...that's doing a good job? This is Division 1 sports people...winning and losing is the bottom line. If we don't want wins, then lets be a Division 3 program. Never wanting to get in a track meet with any other teams because we never skate as well as anyone else. Why the hell not? The fans don't want to see neutrasl zone funnelling, constant cycling on the boards in order to create a scoring chance. People don't want to see that...BORING! And you wonder why the Sullivan Arena is empty. Get some kids in here who can skate. 2-7-1 against teams who will be in the new league with us...those of you who are waiting for the new WCHA so we can be conpetitive are in for a rude awakening if something is not changed. That's the thing...after the 8 losing seasons, something's got to change. You bet someone will want the job at what it pays. Someone with a new outlook who can change the culture. Or, pony up like Mich Tech and get a coach who WILL change the culture. Say what you want about UAA basketball and Division 2, but Moser and Osborne get it...they are about winning CHAMPIONSHIPS. Seems the attitude around UAA hockey is, hey, let's try to win 6th place! And it's OK if nobody is on the all-WCHA teams. And "let's just try to keep the score close so we have a shot at a win". Yeah, how did that work for you Saturday night at the Mariucci. DD, I don't want to settle for the occasional upset or that warm fuzzy feeling of having a few kids on the all-academic team. This is Division 1 athletics.
Quit blaming the regents...yeah, they really don't want a school they preside over to be successful. Are you kidding me?
UAF has had success because kids want to play for Ferguson. They will go to class to stay eligible to play for Ferguson. They might not like him all the time, but they sure as hell respect him. Why all the defections and problems at UAA this season? Cause they don't want to play for Shyiak, at any price. These are kids he and his staff have recruited to be here.
Local kids are going to Fairbanks and other places to play. Not acceptible. We're not going to get all of them, but why go there if they can play here? Don't tell me, hey, they aren't that good. Really? They're good enough for Division 1, but not good enough for UAA?
Is the problem that they didn't play in the Alberta or Saskatchewan league? Also, agree with the person who says the current UAA coaching staff is not out in the community. Dead on. Never see them at peewee or bantam tournaments, the time they should be planting seeds. Occasionally at midget stuff or high school games. Not at local camps. UAF coach ferguson though will fly down for youth camps in Anchorage. See the disconnect? Gotta change.
Wow, that's alot to get off my chest. I support the kids who are here, go to the UAA games when I can, but it sometimes a tough sell around our house. Sad to see all the empty seats. Mike, news flash...we CAN produce winning seasons with the right leadership. Seems the current staff isn't right. Time for a change. Cobb can stay if he makes a good hire, like he did with Moser with basketball and Green with volleyball.
Go Seawolves!
So next year it looks as though Colorado College will have more Alaskans on their roster than UAA will. That alone tells you a lot about the fact that UAA is not a top choice for any local kids
Is UAA a top choice for any graduating Anchorage students? Nope. My daughter is at university in Chicago. What 18 year old Alaskan doesn't want to go to school somewhere other than Alaska?
Local kids haven't come to UAA for ANY coach. Dats da fack jack.
Anon 11:25 yeah what can you say, it's a well read book.
Anon 3:32 I like a lot of what you are saying.
" 2-7-1 against teams who will be in the new league with us" a telling fact right there.
"Get some kids in here who can skate" this goes with my statement i've made more than once. Why have 200x100 ice if you don't recruit speed? Cycling on the boards didn't do anything but create a turnover and trap 2 tired forwards behind the break out. Hell you have to score to win...bottom line, UAA last in the league in scoring consistenly...ugly picture isn't it?
DD
A few locals have come here to play and a few of them were damn good and in the WCHA, but you are basically correct. UAA not a destination any born and raised Anchorage kid has on his radar. The sad facts. Parents could help change that culture though.
I'm saying bullshit on that no local goods don't want to play here because they wanna get out of state..These kids leave the state to go play juniors for a couple years after graduating and believe me they would love nothing more to come and be able to play every second weekend in front of their family's and friends (wait that might help the tragic embarrassment of attendance) and having a home cooked meal every night. they don't want to come here because of the way previous local guys have been treated by the coach that some of you are deciding to defend. do you really think Eric Walsky has a whole lot of great things to say about UAA and his time here with Shyiak running him out of town, only for him to head out CC and become a key player in their offense his final two years, offense that UAA definitely could use any year. Anchorage is far to small of a town to be burning the bridges with local guys that a lot of younger kids look up to and skate with in the summers. Right now thats why UAA is not a destination high on local kids lists is because the older local guys that have played here under this mess of what UAA likes to call leadership is something along the lines of "go play division 3 instead, you'll enjoy it a whole lot more" that there is the sad facts.
Sorry Anon but it's longstanding knowledge that top players from anchorage don't stay home. Just like top students.
If they really wanted to stay they'd stay. I'd stayed on a team with a coach I didn't like more than once when I had other options. For me it was about playing with friends so I suppose it wasn't exactly the same.
What player in the last couple of years from Anchorage do you think should have come here? UAA can get plenty of Tier II kids from wherever and Anchorage produces on average one or two Tier I kid every two or three years. And how many colleges offer to Tier I players?
Only every Big 10 school and every traditional power program - DU, CC, BC, BU, etc etc etc or Ivy league schools Yale, Harvard etc ... UAA isn't a traditional power program. If my kid were being recruited by UAA and Brown, I'd try to talk him into Brown. An Ivy League education is too big of an advantage to choose UAA instead.
UAA's route to trying to become a power program should definitely include getting some Tier I local players to stay. No argument. But as I said, few have ever done so beginning with names like Sean Howard and Tony Link. So it's specious to see Shyiak or the program as the culprit.
The long understood and accepted explanation in the local community about college is that the best want to go somewhere else ... hockey notwithstanding.
I can understand that some fans are calling for a coachs' head after a nasty losing season. It happens all across college hockey, only problem here at UAA, is that we've never even had a .500 season in the WCHA as far as I know.
But when the Seawolves beat No #1 ranked UMD, and snapped a nasty losing streak at St.Cloud, this last winter, I felt so much pride and happiness. At the end of the day, I support the team win or lose, and that's what being a true fan is about.
Can't blame them for leaving, who really wants to live in Anchorage? Denver and Minneapolis are so much better, the other places in the lower 48 are at least within driving distance of a big city. Sullivan Arena is also the ugliest sports venue in North America, inside and out. When are they going to get rid of the stantions (sp?) on the glass? Subway Center has stantionless glass. I wonder if it might help the atmosphere if they put all the fans in the lower bowl? Though the view is better from the upper deck. Anyways, I hope they don't spend any money on remodeling Sullivan Arena, it's such a piece of crap. The sight lines are awful. Geez I hope they get ice in the new campus arena. To finish on a positive note, there is a lot of good young talent coming back. Next year should see positive strides in the W column.
We can't fix or remodel Sullivan arena.....we don't have any money.
DG,
Don't bother commenting here. I'll delete it every time regardless of content.
I've read through everything here, and there's one point I haven't heard anyone mention directly. How is the esprit de corps of the players themselves? I'm sure they're aware of the criticisms and dwindling attendance, and I'm just as sure that bothers them in one way or another. But how are they to each other as teammates? Does anyone here have any insight? Given the circumstances, if the program is ever going to start getting turned around, I'd think that may be a point that could spark the change in fortune. Find a few lesser lights who are team oriented but see that they can come here, do their part, and know they'll be accepted for it.
Last years team was very tight and their success in the playoffs showed it. This past season started out so strong, but clearly something happened ... and I think it had a lot to do with attitude of a few players.
Anon 3:36 attitude reflects leadership
We could have won any of these games at the wcha. gophers blew apart, wish they had done that last week.
Well the same leadership took UAA to the Final Five last season ... so what was different about this season? We have the same leadership.
I know for a fact that one team member was so disappointed at some of his teammates because after some games they partied and didn't seem to be bothered that they lost the game. This kid has always come from winning hockey programs and he hates to lose.
That has been the attitude with the team for years man, they always go and party no matter win or lose. Even in the brush/talifous/hill years, the teams parties after every game.
These are college students, they ALL party after games ... not just at UAA. Remember the scandal at the U of Minnesota with the drunk players at their local bar? This went on for YEARS before the local news got ahold of it.
For those who say the UAA coaching staff needs to spend time at highschool and other hockey games, to get more involved in the local hockey community ... I ask you this. Exactly when are they supposed to be doing this?
During the hockey season they are already busy flying out on recruiting trips and when they go on the road they miss half a week! These guys have families too and deserve to spend time with their wives and kids. I just don't see how they could regularly attend other games, and it would be almost impossible to attend any games that are scheduled on the weekends.
just heard a few more guys quit the team!
New Tender coming in next year, Michael Matyas from AJHL Calgary Canucks.
Who quit?
Yeah anon @ 353, who? if your gonna say guys quit you might as well drop names.
Scheid and Pustin quit today. Heard Docken might be following.
I figured Scheid and Docken would leave, they'll probably end up playing for a team in Minnesota, where they are from. Bummer.
I'm gonna miss Scheid :( He is sooo cute.
That is a total of 6 players to quit this year, as a Seawolf fan this is sad to see...
How do we prevent things like this from happening? i hear 9:08 very sad
Things are starting to look like the Talafous years ... time to replace both Shyiak and Cobb.
rumor has it that sammy melor is gonna be captain of next years team? does anyone know if this is true? i think that would be a fantastic idea
Actually rumor has it he wont be here at all.
rumor has it jerry dewhurst was offered a full ride?
RUDY! RUDY! RUDY!
Really, I thought Jerry would want to go back to Bemidji!! LOL
Shyiak hasn't had a captain for several years now, only assistant captains.
Can we hit the PANIC button now! Please someone do something about Seawolve hockey! All these Guys quiting and we twiddle our thumbs, jeez. Maybe we'll just blame the weather this year for all the players leaving, heck one knows we can't blame Shyiak or Cobb as they have a "Permanent Pass" on any responsibility for the success of UAA hockey.
Remember that Dean Talafous didn't get shown the door until players revolted. Steve Cobb didn't take quick action there until he was faced with no other choice. Every guy on this team has been Dave's recruit for a few couple of years now.
I'm sorry to hear that Mark Pustin is gone. Players leaving is obviously not a good sign. Mark stuck it out and to be frank, I'm sorry that I don't think he really got a fair chance. I'm going to say a hard thing here but I'm willing to say it.
Mark didn't get a regular chance to play because Chris Crowell is on the roster. I think the world of Chris as a human. He's been a leader on the team since day one. But he just isn't competitive enough at this level to bump players with more skill. Again, nothing against Chris and if he's made of the stuff I think he is then he can deal well enough with what some blogger said.
Scheid is a big loss if it's true as well. He would have been a key cog in a new offense over the next couple of years. Docken would also be a huge loss ... few defensemen anywhere would give you as good a game as he did night in and night out as a freshman.
I hope this stuff is only rumor as sometimes happens.
No - it is true and I heard that there are a few other players that are looking at leaving.
These "rumors" are true. Mark was released by the club, and Eric will red shirt in the USHL next year, hoping for a scholly from another school. As for Derek or other players leaving, I haven't heard. If you have had so many players quit or be released, it might be time to re-think the direction of the club. Slowly the skill is being sucked out of the players, and they are turning into 3rd line grinders. I'll let the people with far more hockey knowledge debate this.
This was expected, this was our last season in the WCHA before the watered down version. Our top-end guys were going to leave. They want another chance at a big time school, in a conference probably with a tv deal. If you did not see this coming, you were being ignorant.
Shyaik, also hasn't shown to develop guys into going to the "show". Have any of his recruits played more than a handful of games in the NHL. No. Same can be said for Campell Blair. *Note: From the practices I have seen T.J Jindra lead, I like him and what he brings. Their recruits are stuck in the AHL, but mostly ECHL, and CHL. I would get rid of Cobb in half a heartbeat. D, and others have presented great evidence that all our others coaches have done basically the same in winning percentage, and finish in the conference.
Hopefully we'll win more in the "new" WCHA. But until we really start winning, our recruits talent wise are going to drop off. We are losing the major going for our program. We were in the premier college hockey conference, soon it looks like we'll be in the 4th, 5th strongest conference.
We always state that the boys need to weather the storm. Not it is our turn as fans (fanatics or casual fans) to weather the storm. Until we can get a coach that has the BURNING desire to and truly demand what he needs to win, I say Shyiak stays. No need to put another coach into a bad sitaution with an AD, and board of directors that seemingly could care less of UAA and its hockey program. There needs to be change at UAA. From top to bottom. We as fans, need to demand change and results. Its time to flood the offices of Cobb, the board of directors, and others with the demand of positive results. And, if there aren't willing to do anything, well screw them. I will support the players and that's it.
affirmative action - how do we go about getting rid of cobb and shyiak?! does anyone know who to get ahold of, who to talk to?
The 'new' WCHA could be an opportunity for UAA to turn things around. If they can grind their way to some success there, they'll have a spot in the post-season. Then they could implement the next step, which would be to assemble a challenging pre-conference schedule. If they can then show some success in that part of the season over time, the big-time recruits will come. This pattern worked for Gonzaga in the basketball world. They came out of nowhere, dominated their conference, and are now considered to be a power program. In the process, they even made their conference stronger by giving it credibility. It could happen here or to any school in the 'new' WCHA. Why not make it here? Isn't there an influential alum or two who could lay some lumber to the AD and coach?
There are plenty of alumni (even former coaches) who could yeild a lot of power in getting rif of Shyiak and Cobb, but will they have the guts to come forward? Probably not.
I thought Blair was a great addition when he was hired, but I don't know now. His wife doesn't even come to the games any more! It seems there is too much apathy in the athletic dept. and they are happy to get their 6 figure checks and stick with the status quo.
Reading all of the comments, what I don't read is things like, "Shyiak is passionate about winning", "he is a great teacher", "the players would do anything for him", etc.etc. I don't heat the defense of or for the leaders of this hockey program. That tells me a lot. "Dump the Chump" is all I have to say.
Scheid and Pustin were not skating today when I was dropping my boy off but I did see Docken out there skating with about 10 other guys including the coaches. I hope this means he is staying or else it would be a HUGE loss for the program. As for Pustin and Scheid, I wish them all the best in the future. It's so unfortunate that it couldn't work out for them here!
Mellor most likely playing in the WHL for Lethbridge and Docken exploring transfer options for next season. Other players are contemplating leaving too all the while Cobb's head is buried in the snow.
Mellor's development might have been served positively by going to the WHL three seasons ago when they first approached him. Here's the thing though, Mellor's uncle played with Shyiak at NMU. I don't see him leaving but of course I've been wrong plenty of times before.
If no more players bolt then Shyiak and the program can call it up hiccup and natural etc etc ... if a couple more leave then it's more like a sinking ship.
Just curious if Tech had these kinds of issues when they were in the midst of their repeated one season wins ...
Yes Tech did ... they let Jamie Russell go in much the same way people here would like to see Shyiak go. That wasn't the turning point last year for their program (if they've turned and it isn't just one year). Their Alumni ponied up something like 150,000 dollars a year toward their coach's salary.
UAA won't take any huge strides forward in the overall world of college hockey unless and until they basically double the budget. Only that kind of money will attract a coach that has the sort of reputation to bring in the big recruits.
And that's not a knock on Shyiak. He's done just the same as every other coach here. As ASF repeated above ... it's an institutional problem. It's a state university in an extremely tightwad state.
Wow have not said much so far as a lot of ANON's are posting but is this a train wreck?
This is all very sad. The team had such a solid season a year ago and made it to the final 5. With the players that should have been coming back and the incoming players, next season looked pretty solid. There's still time to fix this but Cobb really needs to get on board and support hockey. It's debatable whether his first priority is the hockey team, which it so obviously should be.
Shyiak is a very, very good coach. With the best players, he'd have the best team. Though Dave isn't the most personable, he is sincere in his effort, and a smart HOCKEY guy.
There's a number of things the team could do better to promote the product. For one, people think the Aces level is above the WCHA, and that's the wrong concept - the University can sell college hockey like Olympic hockey. Talented, fast, and a front row seat to watching the best players in the world develop (just look at the US Olympic team).
Here's what they should do: they should have a journalism student (who knows hockey) be a "beat blogger" the way the Islanders/Kings and other professional team are doing now. The news is always a little home team biased, there's more coverage, and if the main paper needs an article, they can always run the slightly-biased writing. It'd be great for a journalists resume, and the ADN doesn't have to pay anyone for content.
They should use marketing students to get butts in the seats. They have this massive wealth of students they're trying to teach and develop, who are eager and full of ideas. Nothing is more valuable than real-life experience, and why not have that be a major project for a class? Give them a budget and let them use their fresh ideas and energy to get people to the game. That's half the battle - if they go, they'll see the product is incredible and energetic.
It's just stagnant there. They need fresh blood in marketing positions, everyone is just so happy to collect their paycheck which is zero percent based on how well they perform.
Ahhh, AKfan, right now there are more important things than fans and news coverage. There is a player revolt going on that could see half of the team leave. So the problem that needs to be addressed first is the Coach and the AD. If Shyiak is a good coach but lacks the social skills, is the best position for him to be Head Coach? That is the face of the team. His face is buried in the snow someplace. Other than the UAA fans, does anyone KNOW who he is? Doubtful
Very good coach and smart hockey guy. Are you kidding me! Dave is a sorry excuse for a head hockey coach in the WCHA. Not very personable. Are you kidding me again! This is the face of your program. He should be out at luncheons every other day to shake hands and promote the program. This guy acts like he has won 5 national championships. Dave's teams are at the bottom of the WCHA when it comes to thier powerplay and penalty kill percentage evry year. Dave hasn't shown any coaching ability to develop these two areas. Telling your players to chip the puck into the corner on a offensive rush to start a cycle is painful to take game after game. Also telling players to shoot the puck from everywhere and hope for a lucky rebound is losing hockey and is the norm every weekend. There is no good reason to keep Dave Shyiak as head coach and if the University doesnt decide to make more of a financial commitment, they should fold the program.
And you honestly think that Gwoz, Haskall, or Lucia are "personable"? Get a grip.
AKfan, thats all you got for a response. Stick to just being a FAN.
So, is Docken staying or going?
I heard there is a big alumni meeting Tuesday to discuss the status of the hockey program and coaching staff.
Did you hear it firsthand? Will anyone from the university be there of is it just an alumni meeting?
The alumni hockey players are getting together without any one from the university. They are disgusted with the current state of the hockey program and it will give them the opportunity to discuss their level of frustration and decide how they will move forward as a united group. I am sure that they will than meet with either Cobb or Bill Spindle the vice chancellor to discuss there concerns.
Finally! Someone is doing something of substance. And it's the right kind of group, too. Credibility. Now we'll see if UAA gets more support for the program, another coach, or both. Maybe we can do more than hope, at last. Let's hope 'no money' doesn't trump the whole exercise as a blanket excuse.
Anon 3:11 thanks...if you hear anything further please post.
There are a lot of alumni in Anchorage, let's hope they can come up with some solutions.
I just read on facebook that a group of five players (Docken, Mellor, Karl, Allen and Roy) participated in ‘Dance and Family Skate Night’ on March 23 at Scenic Park Elementary. Good to know Mellor and Docken were there, maybe they are sticking around!!
In regards to the alumni meeting tonight I'm sure it's painful and embarrasing for them to see how far this program has sunk. They do care just like many fans once cared. The sad reality is at the end of the day Cobb does not care enough. He has had moments during his tenure to make the right decisions with regards to his hockey program but he has chose not to. Don't look for Cobb to make any changes.
If enough pressure does mount, Cobb will have little choice but do what he has to do. It happens all the time.
For example, this past football season, the Ole Miss athletic director tried to brush off his critics. It didn't work; reference this article:
http://www.nems360.com/view/full_story/15831657/article-Ole-Miss-Chancellor-addresses--attacks--on-athletic-director?instance=popular
When outside pressure mounted, UConn got out the brooms, too. Reference this article:
http://www.nems360.com/view/full_story/15831657/article-Ole-Miss-Chancellor-addresses--attacks--on-athletic-director?instance=popular
And yes, ADs have a delicate balancing act, but alumni and business pressures are not something they can easily ignore,as this article states:
http://apse.dallasnews.com/contest/2003/writing/100-250/100-250.explanatory.fourth1.html
So, who knows? Maybe Cobb will be made to realize that hockey in Alaska is a bit more important to the community than it is in Georgia (can we say Atlanta Thrashers becoming Winnipeg Jets?). Hopefully, the hockey alums can provide the impetus for change.
Any word on the alumni meeting that was allegedly held?
What i'd like to know is what Skyiaks doing with the scholarship money hes taken from players. Mitch lost his entire scholarship, and others had portions taken away as "repercussions". How about someone takes away Skyiak's job. The man has no clue how to coach a team, let alone run a program. He is the worst thing to have ever happened to this organization, and this team will never grow with him in charge.
How does he plan to fill the spots, of the 5 players who have quit because of him, 2 that hes kicked off for no good reason, and probably a handful more who plan to quit.
Shyiak's a joke and a disgrace to the organization, and until he is removed, that players list is going to continue dropping.
Not to mention the above comment presents every reason why Shyiak's ass should be fired. Im sure theres more illegal things the mans done, its just waiting to come out. And Cobb, while your investigating Shyiak's actions, take a gander to your assistant coaches.
Assistant coaches? Anon 7:52. What do you know that we don't about them?
Making allegations of illegal behavior will result in me deleting your comment. Shyiak and his staff deserve the same protections here as anyone else. I will not allow that shit. You want to criticize him ... I've been allowing that but I won't allow anonymous bullshit like that.
You want to call someone a criminal in here? Put your real fucking name on it.
Anon@7:52...pretty serious allegations, and until some proof arises or someone steps forward, they are just that. You are talking about real people with real lives, yet you hide behind an anonymous post.
DD-well put!
I agree with the above two comments. Unless there is evidence -- and you'd think Mitch would want to come forward, giving the timing of his dismissal -- stuff like that only sounds like sour grapes.
Another allegation, that there are seven rides on the table, is interesting. That should be easy to verify.
Comment deleted for bad form. Life decisions by players/staff aren't your business and as such are not open to your criticism. These are amateur athletes ... not professional. Go talk personal shit on Tim Tebow on a Broncos blog.
Please have respect for our players. Anonymous rumors serve absolutely no purpose.
IMHO
Susie Morris
Buck up guys. Things are not as bad as the comments here would lead readers to believe. There ARE brighter days ahead. You'll see!
Donald, I realize how busy you are, but do you think you'll be able to start a new thread so that this 100+ trash session titled "WCHA Playoffs versus Minnesota" can slide down stream?
I love donating to this blog, but I've gotta be honest. It's hard to hit the donate button sometimes.
Perhaps just a "Have a Good Summer" (Open Thread)?
For those of us who support this blog, it would be appreciated more than you'll ever know. Thank you for your consideration!
I, for one, keep checking to see if anything came of that Seawolf alumni meeting, assuming it happened.
Jordan Kwas hasn't quit the team. His girlfriend isn't pregnant. This sky-is-falling bullshit has got to stop.
This blog was shit this year because I couldn't find the time to write anything that I really thought people wanted to read. None of that means that wild speculation and untrue rumors are going to be allowed.
I've deleted one comment because it was potential libel. Rumors might not reach that level but certainly hurt the people who they are targeting.
Fucking stop it.
I planned several times to make a new post but didn't get to it for a specific reason. I will soon.
In other news:
2011-12 ALASKA ANCHORAGE TEAM AWARDS
Team MVP* – Matt Bailey
Rookie of the Year* – Derek Docken
Most Inspirational* – Dusan Sidor
Most Improved*– Corbin Karl
Corner Man* – Jade Portwood
Leon Thompson Fan Favorite – Chris Kamal
Jack Peterson Student-Athlete – Dusan Sidor
Brush Christiansen Trailblazer – Barb Luiten
Seawolf Trailblazer – Mark Filipenko
Congrats to all!
test // test // test
Anon 7:26
looks like the test worked
2011-12 ALASKA ANCHORAGE TEAM AWARDS
Team MVP* – Matt Bailey
Rookie of the Year* – Derek Docken
Most Inspirational* – Dusan Sidor
Most Improved*– Corbin Karl
Corner Man* – Jade Portwood
Leon Thompson Fan Favorite – Chris Kamal
Jack Peterson Student-Athlete – Dusan Sidor
Brush Christiansen Trailblazer – Barb Luiten
Seawolf Trailblazer – Mark Filipenko
*Award voted on by members of the UAA hockey team.
Congratulations to all!!
Troy Jutting is out as Mankato's hockey coach. 2 time Coach of the Year in the WCHA gets let go after 12 season's behind the bench. I think its time to seriously start making some moves here in order to get this program in the right direction. Instead of guys signing pro contracts, our players rather quit hockey all together. If Mankato can muster up the balls to make moves to advance their program, as a fan I would like to think our program can do the same. Kids quiting, sub par records year after year, dismal attendance. WHAT MORE NEEDS TO GO TO SHIT BEFORE COBB JUST CUTS THE PROGRAM ONCE AND FOR ALL!!!
I'd hate to say it, but maybe that's Cobb's plan after all. Or more, the director's who seemingly don't even know/care that there is an Anchorage campus.
No ice in the new campus arena. Dodges, or tells us fans what we want to hear when we bring up the no ice.
I just don't know. I'd hate to believe that, but where's the evidence Cobb or others who have the power, are trying to help out the hockey program?
Hopefully the alum can shake the establishment. Because to me, that might be the only thing that gets to them.
I just don't know what there are thinking.
I've wondered for a while if it's a possibility that Cobb is letting UAA hockey wither away. No ice in the new arena says a lot. Cobb has been asleep at the wheel for too long, or has he?
Dr. Cobb has 9 teams in Athletics. the Wells Fargo was built for student recreation. The locker rooms are a joke, some are shared joke’s (2 teams sharing) the “workout area “is a farce handball courts with man doors cut between them. To add Ice to the new field house would add additional revenue to take down and put up the different floor and rink every time you need it …about $12,000 each way, each time. Basketball, Volleyball, and Ice Hockey’s season is about the same time of the year Oct- March. I would like for all the Anonymous Yappers try and schedule games, practice for this building. Good luck, oh yea also fund the floor and ice surface tear down and put backs. UAA had to build a “field House” first due to Title 9 or whatever number it is. The Women’s teams have put up with crap facilities and for the most part dealt with it and I thank them for doing what they have done with the shabby area’s they have been assigned .The U A regents didn’t fund the Field house, didn’t want it, and had no interest in wanting UAA to have better faculties. They were pretty pissed at the “bond for the Field house”
because they don’t want UAA to have a decent campus. Their mission is to fund UAF which prop’s up the economy of the village on the Chena River. The Ice Arena is on the UAA Radar big time.
Do I want an Ice Arena on Campus……yes
Do the other UAA teams need better facilities first…. yes
It must be great just sit back and fire rumors , lies, and all the BS that you can make up and think you are safe because you didn’t put a name or handle to your comments.
Well Said AK hockey
Donald, you should take the anonymous option on here if you can.
AK Hockey,
Outside of Player rumours (which is stupid), comments on the arena/ice I believe are fair game. If the ice is on the "radar BIG time" why doesn't anyone know about it? Probably on the radar but will never ever land, IMHO. Seriously, the Athletic Dept at UAA is seriously messed up. Zero communication, Zero support for Hockey, and yet we are supposed to NOT say anything, sounds like the Socialists have taken over once and for all! You can have it AK Hockey, you and the remaining 15 people in attendance at the games.
Anonymous 3:25 I love the.... no body doesn't say anything about nothing excuse. drop a dime, call the man, take the bus over to UAA or drive over. (free parking on Friday)
If you only read Doyles blog you are right. the news barley writes about any sports at UAA let alone Ice Hockey
Donald replace Anonymous with their IP number I bet the bs and lies will stop.
Fact is, Cobb tells all of us he wants a new arena ... then goes on TV and says an "updated" Sully is a "good fit" for the UAA hockey team.
Well guess what? There is no "updated arena" in the works as many die hard hockey fans believe. The city are fixing the water pipes and sidewalks ... period. Just ask them.
A few of you people crack me up on here. You act like because you have a user name you are not posting things anonymously. The bottom line is that almost everyone on here cares about the program and are simply putting out their opinions on the issue. Yes, there are the random people who put out idiotic posts but just ignore it once you realize it's idiotic. This conversation needs to continue on here and in the community to fix this program.
I'd still like to know whether or not there was a meeting of UAA puck alumni. It would be a great move to have a group like that step forward and add a known voice to the issue.
I think UAA is a great university. The hockey team deserves complete support from the front office, to the average fan. I really believe in the future of the team, and of the new league- we will be a power!
Win, and more fans will fill the sully. Increased cash rolling in means better recruiting, higher caliber players, more victories, and more success....
Wasn't it the Seawolves who initially started heaving salmon onto the ice after the first goal? I know the Aces followed suit at some point and are still tossing fish.
Anyway, saw this article on the Hockey News today - "Top 10 things thrown on the ice":
http://www.thehockeynews.com/articles/46312-THNcom-Top-10-Things-thrown-on-the-ice.html
Yes, the Seawolves started this, but John Hill nixed it. I still remember the ADN article where Jack Kowal talked about how the team would be all pumped up after scoring ... but after the fish were cleaned up the energy had worn off.
Just found out the alumni association is pulling all their financial support for the hockey program unless there is a coaching change.
Well I wouldn't know about that...maybe others here could comment? I do know I was disappointed with the Gophs play in the frozen 4 though.
If there were any truth to the anon 1:53 rumer I'm pretty sure there would have been a statement from the association. Anything posted should be verifiable and none of the wild rumers I've seen on this site were verified.
From the UAA website:
Alaska Anchorage head hockey coach Dave Shyiak announced Monday that junior Chris Crowell will lead the Seawolves in the 2012-13 slate as captain, while sophomore Matt Bailey will dress as assistant captain.
“These two individuals truly represent what we want in a player and a student,” said Shyiak, who concluded his seventh year at UAA, “They lead the right way and have undoubtedly earned the respect in the locker room.”
Crowell, a local of Williams Lake, B.C., who was an assistant captain in 2011-12, becomes the first Seawolf since Jared Tuton in 2009-10 to hold the captaincy alone. Since then, UAA had four student-athletes share the responsibilities each year.
Call me a traditionalist, but the term is ALTERNATE captain. An 'assistant' captain is defined as a lieutenant, and they just don't put the letter L on a hockey sweater.
The hockey alumni association did meet with Cobb and they had a follow up with chancellor Case to discuss their feelings on the current state of the hockey program and it was not favorable. In their opinion if they do not see positve changes made they are indeed prepared to not support the hockey program further. Contact Cobb and if he's truthful he will verify this.
Cobb is part of the problem, why meet with him? Go straight to the top IMHO. I have emailed Cobb, no response from him. Am I surprised? No, I believe he is an arrogant jerk. I hope he gets sacked as well as the coach.
The account of the alumni/Cobb meeting sounds like they're going about things in the proper way. Now, how did they define 'positive changes'? There has to be a solid list of items that can be assessed if money and jobs are going to be on the line.
They define positive change as in a new head coach to start with. They are very unhappy with the direction and the lack of progress the program has made under Shyiak. The team has finished in last or next to last in 6 of his 7 seasons. You have had numerous players quit...25-30 players in 7 seasons. The attendance is at an all time low and shrinking. You can go from there and it's easy to see why they feel the way they do.
Yeah but these are all well known things. What is going to change with them presenting this to the University?
Well, money -- or the threat to withhold it -- would make the pressure to change fairly urgent. The question would be what the contract terms are and if there are any better candidates out there who would work for the same price. Or, if the alums are going to kick in extra money to make the job more attractive.
This is a lot easier to say when it's not our money.
I'm all for change and all for a new coach, but 25-30 players to leave under Shyiak? That's just not accurate.
I did a lot of searching and not all of those can be faulted on Shyiak. Billy Smith and one other player left before Shyiak was even hired (when Hill quit). ALL teams have players (like Crowder, Beagle, Lawson, McLeod) leave early for the pros.
Gordon left because of his career ending eye injury. LaFranchise was academically ineligible and wanted to play his senior season. Felde chose to go major junior and didn't play for ANY college. Larson left before this past season ever even started due to family issues.
That leaves 14 guys (2 per year) who actually quit the team or didn't come back. A big difference between 14 and 25-30. But then we don't have a definitive word on who's not coming back next season.
We do have a problem but not like the Tally nightmare. Still, it's clear big changes need to be made, starting at the top. And Cobb is a big part of the problem. It's time people stopped making excuses for him and called a spade a spade.
Smith did play a season under Shyiak as did Walsky,N.Lawson,S.Hamilton and Beagle quit to go play in ECHL because he didn't like playing under Shyiak so that isn't leaving because you signed a pro contract. Dustin Molle was gone and last seen hoisting the Governor's Cup on Sullivan ice as a member of Alaska Fairbanks Those defections were right away so dig deep and I'm sure the number of players to have quit is alarming. No fans in attendance and regardless of winning percentage it's the direction of the program. At least the previous staff went 4-5 in the WCHA playoffs in years 3 and 4 and the program was headed in the right direction after cleaning up the mess that Talafous had created.
Good news is forthcoming.
Anon. 12:14. - I'm holding my breath!
Good news would have been the inclusion of 50 or 60 million dollars for an on campus arena in the just approved Alaska capital budget. But alas that didn't happen. I suspect anything else will just seem like news to me.
50 or 60 would be a bare bones (benches not seats) type place. I'm not saying rival the Ralph but at least put seats in the joint.
DD
Are you going to give your 2011-2012 Fan Blog Awards anytime soon?
Wondering if this is the record for the longest string of comments on one post?
Well it's certainly going on & on...But it's all good.
I worry about DD. He always has been a source of energy and light for the program win or lose, but he is mostly silent these days...
Maybe too many losing seasons have had an adverse effect.
I have to admit it was a damn hard season to be a UAA fan..
As a FAN, you have to have Faith. Not that GOD is really that concerned about the current state of the UAA hockey program, but the Bible defines Faith as: "Faith is being sure of what we hope for, and certain of what we do not see."
Have Faith Seawolf Fans !!!!
The blog's suckage this season had little to do with the team's performance. Moreso, it was related to how much time I personally had to write. I made myself busier the last year and while the hockey is still important to me, I've honestly just done other stuff than write about hockey. I'll have a post sometime soon but in general I'm not going to spend any time looking back at the season. Sorry that the blog awards didn't get done but it is what it is.
the 2012-2013 schedule is partly released only missing a road series and the gov cup on it
http://www.goseawolves.com/SportSelect.dbml?SPSID=58448&SPID=6373&DB_LANG=C&DB_OEM_ID=13400&PRINTABLE_PAGE=YES&SORT_ORDER=&Q_SEASON=2012
missing the DU series
Kane Lafranchise needs some lovin. The Hockey News is running a contest for the "coolest name in hockey".
It's down to Wacey Rabbit and our very own Kane Lafranchise.
Go to this link & you'll find the question mixed in with some NHL playoff questions. The link to vote is just above the bracket.
C'mon, give Kane a boost! :D
http://www.thehockeynews.com/articles/45510-The-Hockey-News-Name-Tournament-The-Final.html
they didn't need my vote as already closed and a winner declared........Name Tournament Winner: Kane Lafranchise
"You take paradise and put in a parking lot"
http://www.adn.com/2012/04/22/2435848/ballparks-to-be-leveled-for-sullivan.html
Ok, so it's not really paradise, but still.
p.s. Can't believe Boeke Arena is going through yet another renovation.
Boeke has 200,000 Reno budget. What do they plan on doing? Painting it?
Ball dimonds that get used nightly May - Sept.
Parking lot $6 a pop to be used 3 maybe 4 times a year? Oh and a 2 block walk to Sully. May not be Paradise but they are sure going to put up a parking lot. His kid is doing a bang up job as mayor.
"Parking lot $6 a pop to be used 3 maybe 4 times a year?"
What???
Take all these post down were already to move on and your to lazy to write something new
Where we moving on to?
"were already" to move on and "your"? "We're all ready" and "you're" maybe? Phrase in english so we can comprehend please. Why not just let the comments roll on for people that want to post something? At least DD affords us the chance to do that you know?
When I start paying DD I'll start telling him what to do. Being too cheap to pay him, I'm thankful (1 or 2 L's anon 10:44?) that he affords us this space. I would enjoy a new free post from him.
In your case 2 L's
Nice to see Jay Beagle having so much success in the NHL. In the Caps/Bruins series he was THE best face-off guy on the both teams. I think they said he had a win % of 65!!
I see they have started clearing land on Campus for the new UAA arena, Isn't that great!!!
Eric Scheid ???????????
Yes, I too saw the land being cleared this weekend. I still can't beleive there will be no rink on campus. This makes ZERO sense to me and everyone I talk to about it. There has got to be some funny business going on here folks. It''s really sad!
I saw it's being built for 109 million? Amsoil Arena in Duluth was built for about 85 million (Would love to see a building like this on campus or downtown: http://jrosvold.photoshelter.com/gallery/Duluth-Amsoil-Arena-Grand-Opening-12-30-10/G0000ASBmThtEkI8/
Remember this is UAA were talkin' 'bout. Why would they do anything that is conceivable, or makes sense? It still is in my firm belief that Cobb doesn't give a hoop about our hockey program and he would like to axe it. If we don't win in the watered down WCHA and bring in more fans to the Sully our future is not bright.
Without a rink, the new facility makes no sense to me. The Sully is a good, old facility, but what the program needs is a rink on campus.
The Duluth rink is great. I thought the old DECC was great also. I lived back there for awhile, and people take great pride in the place, and their team. I wish the same for the Seawolves. They deserve the same respect.
UAA could be in control of the Parking Revenue and all the concessions at the new facility. If you draw an average of 3,000 to 3,500 people per game i have to believe that would more than cover the cost of the rink set up and take down after the hockey weekends. The Basketball teams and the Gymnastics team just doesn't draw that many folks. The hockey program is where the majority of the fan base for UAA athletics is! Wake up Cobb!!
I wouldn't call the Sully a "good" facility in any way. Poor sight lines, color schemes are horrible (yellow, orange, and reddish colored chairs), and it's always very dirty. The Sullivan Arena is not a nice new building, but it's not a cool vintage arena either with history and mystique. It's just a dump. In a city that is unparalleled in natural beauty we should have an arena that is just as beautiful and compliments that. I have also been to the old DECC (http://www.vintageminnesotahockey.com/ArenaDECC.html), and I think if that seating design was kept, you could modernize the rest of the arena and have one awesome building. It was cool having one wrap around bowl of seating that hung right over the glass. It was fun watching them play on a 190' x 85' playing surface too. Another thing about Sullivan Arena is it's poor location, it's in a hole where you can't see anything. It's not close to any good restaurants and bars. What makes the game day experience so much fun in other places is being able to meet with friends and other fans at a festive and fun eating establishment and then being able to just walk across the street to the arena.
One thing that is encouraging is a reliable source at UAA told me the people who secured funding for the new sports complex are very actively working towards securing funding for a new hockey arena/recreation center. Not sure what the recreation center part is.
Hopefully, the recreation center is a part of the complex that generates revenues all day and most of the night, which makes the arena more viable. That plan has been successful in many locations in Canada and on a scaled-down level in places like Lake Tahoe.
The Nerland group is indeed working on getting plans going for a student recreation and wellness center that would have a hockey facility for UAA.
Lot's of things that have to happen first. Access to Umed District from N.Lights and Bragaw. Money is in the capital budget for some planning for that DOT road. The 2014 election might have an education bond that this facility could be a part of. The Education Bond would have project's from around the State.
The Board of Regents have identified priorities including a new engineering building which would be in the Wells Fargo Parking lot. We need to support THAT engineering building at UAA...then... other facility needs could be addressed.
UAA will never win pitting academic needs vs athletic/recreation...so getting that engineering building done is critical. This could be a long way off.
Speaking as a big hockey fan - I'm wondering how many of you who are bemoaning the lack of a hockey facility on campus are actually willing to pay for it - through taxes that you actually pay. This entire state is full of people with a hand full of gimme and a mouth full of "much obliged", but dont' you dare tax me for anything.
Dear UAA blog,
I stopped in to see what the latest was and I see that the headlines read "WCHA playoffs verses Minnesota".
Can you please advise when that playoff series begins as I would like very much to watch it.
Thank you very much for this blog. It's so nice to find a place that has up-to-the-minute UAA news! I will send in a donation soon.
Kind regards, Marty
The new Engineering Building is indeed being built. Breaking up of the parking lot begin' late summer/early fall. Which is pretty neat since it'll be next door to my 2nd home year-round, The ANSEP building. Parking will be a disaster until the 2nd phase gets okay ed. Which includes a walkway from Wells Fargo-to-new Engineering Bilding-to-new Health & Sciences building, and a parking garage outside the Health & Sciences building.
http://www.thenorthernlight.org/2012/04/24/new-engineering-building-to-take-up-bookstore-parking/
Marty,
Piss off.
Dear Anonymous @ 226:
Nobody in Alaska pays state taxes for anything. All those nobody's though do tend to whine about paying taxes. It's mostly funny.
UAA will never ever have a new on campus Hockey arena, so we should all get over it already. UAA hockey is just as good as being dead in the water.
Why is it so many people think an on campus ice rink will solve the hockey problems at UAA? Just asking
An on-campus arena does a lot for the Seawolves. It allows them to practice on the same ice as they play. It would give them all their facilities (weight room, locker room etc ...) in the same building and would replace a mess of mashed up rooms at the Wells Fargo. It would help recruiting.
And finally it allows students on campus to attend games versus not showing up at Sullivan.
It doesn't solve all the problems but gives them the necessary firm footing from which to build the program.
This may not be a strong analogy but ... I remember my first year playing on a comp soccer team. It was for a local league that really didn't have lots of money and so our uniforms we absolutely terrible. We all felt like we were wearing laundry bags. And it showed on the pitch. The next season we got decent looking normal kit to wear and with basically the same team we were 2nd best in the state. So it's about pride too.
+1 on your explanation, Donald. :)
Ruh Roh, Tim Moser is official done at UAA. No reason was given in the news release for Moser's departure. Wonder what other changes for UAA are in the winds this summer?
alaskamillers May 8, 2012 10:51 PM
Not a single good reason in your shotgun blast of random websites.
And again, who pays for it? What does the campus give up for it? People in Anchorage pay for it? Campus sacrifice academic buildings for it? How do you propose it gets built - oh yea, someone else should pay for it and our campus shouldn't give up any other capital projects either.
John Hill sighting at Mooses Tooth the other day.
ANON 10:51...like it or not the U.S. university sports engine is a part of the national institution. I'm not going to change it and your cetainly not...being that you can't even put you name behind your statements.
My "random" posting of websites points to numerous kids outside of Anchorage and Fairbanks that could and should have the opportunity to play at a first class university within their own state. (UAA or UAF...I could careless which one)...1st class meaning a university that offers a complete package (academics and sports) to prospective students.
Sorry...can't argue your feelings towards Tok. I happen to feel the same as you on this one.
"In the case of state funded UAA or UAF facilities, the money is coming from corporate taxes and oil royalties which belong as much to the people in Juneau, Trapper Creek and Savoonga as they do to the locals in Anchorage or Fairbanks."
Juneau is producing some good hockey talent, as is Homer...not a lot from Trapper Creek and Savoonga. Who the hell cares exactly where they're coming from...we're a cold weather stat that should promote team activities that go hand-n-hand with our climate.
I'm all for a new Engineering building but this doesn't mean we can't get a new hockey arena within the crosshairs.
Oh ya...to answer your question ANON 10:51. You'd pay for it...of course. Dah!
If Hill is in Anchorage, it's only to toss a few back and B.S. with Morris about his latest plan to take over youth hockey in Alaska.
Uh oh, Hill sighting huh? Must be 'prospecting' in them thar hills, lol.
Anon 8:42, that is hilarious. Thanks, I needed that.
Well, Hills brother does live in Anchorage.
New recruit just signed today. Bobby Murphy, a local player who played for the Kenai River Brown Bears in the NAHL.
LoL we complain (with good cause) about the concrete and plastic jungle we call the Sully. They can't even get the penalty box door open at Madison Square Garden...tff
The Sully needs to be razed to the ground. Even an outdoor rink put in its place would be better. Lets stop being Sullied and get a new rink. (And yes I'd be HAPPY to pay extra taxes for it).
I would also be happy to pay a few extra dollars a year for a new rink.
Build it and they will come!
Hey Donald,
Is this forum still going to be active --> http://uaa-hockey-forum.969416.n3.nabble.com/
I had forgotten all about it, but I got an email today saying that it would be shut down in 30 days if users didn't start using it.
The format of that forum is AWESOME! It allows users to add links & photos... even smilies!
Was that your forum? If so, I just wanted to mention that it has some nice features! :0)
I'll take another look at re-adding it. I dropped it because nobody posted anything on it. But Blogger now has the "tabs" (schedule, roster, notable alumni .... ) and I might be able to put it on it's own page.
I'll probably make a post sometime soon to talk about how this place is going to proceed in the future. And don't take "soon" too literally.
Thank you Donald! xoxoxoxoxoxox
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Hey guys:
While DD has the other place still up, drop by and check it out! It's very kewl.
See you over there. Ok? :0( ......OK!! :D
This one --> http://uaa-hockey-forum.969416.n3.nabble.com/
Honestly a Sullivan Arena / Makeover addition would happen before a new one was built.
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