By Sycely Wheeles
For the Alaska Anchorage Seawolves, the new school year brings not only another season of college hockey, but the excitement of a new head coach and a reworked roster ready to hit the ice. The mix of new talent and experienced returners brings an extra dose of exhilaration to the season.
“There’s a lot of buzz going on throughout the team; everyone’s feeling good and ready to get the season started,” said forward Aaron Reierson. After joining the team halfway through last season, Reierson is one of 14 players returning to UAA this year.
“We have a good mix of returners and new guys, and I like that everyone is just excited to see what we can accomplish together,” said goaltender Bryant Marks.
Like several other returners, Marks grew up a fan of the Seawolves through his upbringing in the Anchorage area. Other hometown players returning this year include senior Aiden Westin, junior Bryce Monrean and sophomore Luke Helgeson.
“This returning group feels like they left something on the table last year, and they are excited to push each other to be the best version of themselves,” said Head Coach Eric Rud. “That will help push this group to have a great year.”
“With a new coach and players, fans can see tons of passion from our team,” said Dylan Contreras. Returning as a forward, Contreras earned the title of fan favorite of the 2025-26 season. “This year feels different than others in terms of team morale; we all feel so positive and uplifting when coming to the rink, and that really starts with our new coach, Rud.”
Rud arrived in Anchorage this summer with more than 25 years of coaching experience. He is known for creating a winning team atmosphere and building programs that are ready for success. Rud’s strategy revolves around improving individual confidence through encouraging players to “play free and hard.”
“He has a smile on his face every day around the rink, and when we see that, it feels exciting to be a part of,” said Contreras.
“I think the group has really bought into what Rud has been teaching us so far,” said Ben Anderson. A forward, Anderson is one of three seniors who have spent all four years of their collegiate career with the Seawolves.
With a top-notch schedule ahead of them, the team is prepared to present their new approach in front of fans this Saturday. The Seawolves hit the ice for the first time this season for the Green & Gold Scrimmage at 3 p.m. on September 19 at Wasilla’s Brett Memorial Ice Arena.
“Our staff is encouraged by the skill and tenacity that this team has shown so far in practice, so it will be good to see it on the ice Saturday in a game atmosphere,” Coach Rud said.
“It’s a fresh start for all of us,” said Marks. “We are all looking forward to playing in front of our great fans.”
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