Alaska Nanooks Hockey Welcomes Michigan Tech for Weekend Series

The Alaska Nanooks hockey team returns to Fairbanks this weekend to host Michigan Tech in a two-game series at the Carlson Center, beginning Friday evening.

Friday’s game, scheduled for 7:07 p.m. AKDT, is designated Student Appreciation Night, featuring giveaways and an Adam Sandler-themed costume contest. Saturday’s 7:07 p.m. matchup is Military Appreciation Night, offering free admission to active military, veterans, and their dependents with valid ID. The Nanooks are coming off a split weekend at the 2025 Icebreaker Tournament in Tempe, Arizona, where they upset No. 8/9 Quinnipiac 2-1 before falling to No. 15 Arizona State 5-2 in the championship game.

Forward Michael Citara currently ranks among the nation’s top goal scorers with three goals in four games, averaging 0.75 goals per game. Chase Dafoe leads all Independent skaters with 45 faceoff wins, ranking sixth nationally, while goaltender Lassi Lehti boasts a .911 save percentage, the best among Independent goalies. Strong faceoff play and goaltending are crucial for success in collegiate hockey, particularly for a team like Alaska competing as an independent.

Following this weekend’s series, the Nanooks will travel to Madison, Wisconsin, for a pair of games against the Badgers on October 24-25. For more information on the Alaska Nanooks hockey program, visit the official Alaska Nanooks Athletics website. You can also find more about collegiate hockey at NCAA.com.

The Nanooks’ home schedule is limited this fall, with only two more games scheduled in Fairbanks before the end of 2025.