Dear Seawolf Hockey family,
As we close this season of Seawolf Hockey, I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you who stood with us this year. Your passion, loyalty and belief in this program continue to define what makes Seawolf Hockey so special. From the energy in the arena to the unwavering support shown across our community, you remind our student-athletes every day that they represent something bigger than themselves.
This season was another important step forward in the continued rebuilding and strengthening of our program. We are seeing continued growth in our culture, our competitiveness and our connection with the Alaska hockey community. None of that happens without a dedicated fan base that shows up, believes and pushes us forward.
Today, I also want to share an important program update. Matt Shasby stepped aside as head coach, effective as of this morning. The university will launch an immediate recruitment for his replacement.
Four seasons ago, Coach Shasby accepted one of the most challenging assignments in college hockey to help bring Seawolf Hockey back to life. He poured his heart, soul and endless energy into restoring this program during a critical time in its history. From recruiting an entire new team of student-athletes who believed in the vision to rebuilding pride in the Seawolf sweater, Coach Shasby played a significant role in reestablishing Division I hockey at UAA.
We are deeply grateful for the tremendous foundation he helped create. The start he has given this team and this program will have a lasting impact, and we sincerely appreciate his commitment, leadership and dedication to Seawolf Hockey.
On behalf of our players, alumni, supporters and the entire Seawolf community, we thank Coach Shasby for his leadership and wish him and his family nothing but the very best as he moves on to new opportunities.
The Seawolf 5th Line will support the university in its search for a new head coach for the program. Our commitment to Seawolf Hockey remains stronger than ever. We will continue building on the momentum established over the past several seasons as we work toward sustained success, competitive excellence, and a championship future for our student-athletes and fans.
Thank you for believing in Seawolf Hockey. Thank you for standing with us. And thank you for being the heart of this program.
We look forward to seeing you again next season.
Go Seawolves,
Kathie Bethard
Seawolf Hockey Alliance