Home » News » UAA hosts Red Leafs, Vikings to ring in 2026

UAA hosts Red Leafs, Vikings to ring in 2026

by

Breaking: UAA seawolves Kick Off GNAC Home Weekend With Simon Fraser And Western Washington

Anchorage, Alaska – The Alaska Anchorage Seawolves ready their home floor for a two-game GNAC weekend, welcoming Simon Fraser and Western washington to the Alaska Airlines Center. The slate marks the programS return to GNAC play at home following non-conference action.

First up is Simon Fraser on Thursday,with a 5:15 p.m. tip. The Red Leafs arrive with a 4-8 overall mark and 1-1 in GNAC play, looking to snap a skid and hand UAA a tough conference test.

Two days later, Western Washington brings a 7-6 overall record and a 1-1 GNAC ledger to town for a 7:30 p.m. game.The Vikings have been streaky this season, alternating solid stretches with rough patches as they chase a stronger conference showing.

Fans can follow all the action through the GNAC Network via Hudl, while live stats and tickets are available through the Seawolves’ official channels.

Weekend Schedule Snapshot

Date Opponent Opponent Record Time Venue Streaming Live Stats
Thu, Jan 1 Simon Fraser 4-8, 1-1 GNAC 5:15 pm AST Alaska Airlines center, Anchorage GNAC Network / Hudl GoSeawolves.com/sidearmstats/mbball
Sat,Jan 3 Western washington 7-6,1-1 GNAC 7:30 pm AST Alaska Airlines Center,Anchorage GNAC Network / Hudl GoSeawolves.com/sidearmstats/mbball

Key Players To Watch

UAA’s projected starters for 2025-26 include a core group led by:

  • Cole Johnson, Guard – a steady ball handler and playmaker
  • Akok Machar, Guard/Forward – a versatile scorer and All-Around contributor, excelling at the free-throw line
  • Hassan Herrington, Guard – a well-rounded guard known for scoring, rebounding, and playmaking
  • Bishop True, Forward/Center – a veteran contributor with scoring and efficiency around the rim
  • Sylas Williams, Forward – a college transfer who quickly became a leading scorer and rebounder

The Seawolves’ coaching staff is led by veteran head coach Rusty Osborne, entering his long-tenured era with a seasoned staff that includes Ashton Pomrehn and ryan Engebretsen.

Series history & Recent Form

against Simon Fraser, UAA owns a commanding history, leading 29-2 overall and 15-1 in Anchorage. UAA has won eight in a row in the series and has dominated GNAC meetings sence SFU joined the league in 2010-11.

Versus Western Washington, the Vikings hold a 29-21 edge with the series balancing out in Anchorage (12-12). The Seawolves have split the last four meetings, and several recent games have been decided by close margins, reflecting a competitive GNAC landscape.

Last Time Out

In the team’s non-conference finale, UAA rolled to a 113-52 victory over West Coast Baptist. Eight Seawolves reached double figures, led by Elijah Mobley and Lyman Simmons, as the squad shot efficiently and forced numerous turnovers. The win set a new program mark for points at the Alaska Airlines Center and added to a growing chip on the team’s defensive identity.

Team notes & Honors

  • UAA leads GNAC statistics and ranks highly in scoring defense nationally (around 62 points allowed per game).
  • The Seawolves sit near the top of the GNAC in several categories, including FG% defense, rebounds allowed, and turnovers forced.
  • The program prides itself on sustained success, with a history of 20-win seasons and deep conference showings over decades.

Wolves to Watch: Honors & Highlights

Several Seawolves have earned recognition during the current season, including:

  • Herrington – recognized for all-around excellence and leadership in assists and steals.
  • Machar – a sharpshooter known for clutch free-throw shooting and consistent double-figure scoring.
  • True – a dependable scorer and rebounder, contributing in late-game situations.
  • Williams – immediate impact as a leading scorer and rebounder, with notable performances in recent tournaments.
  • Johnson – a trusted guard with playmaking ability and steady defense.

Engage With us

Which matchup are you most eager to see this GNAC weekend, and why? Do you expect the Seawolves to leverage their home court to spark a winning streak?

Share your thoughts in the comments and tell us which player you think will shape the outcome of these pivotal GNAC games.

Stay tuned for live results, postgame analysis, and deeper GNAC context as UAA aims to solidify its position in the league standings.

What’s Next

If you’re planning to attend, check GoSeawolves.com for tickets and the latest streaming options. The GNAC Network will carry both games via Hudl,with live stats available on the Seawolves’ site.

Follow the Seawolves throughout the season for continued updates on rosters, honors, and GNAC standings as the team navigates the heart of conference play.

Who do you think will lift UAA this weekend at home-the steady playmaker or the high-energy scorer? And what storyline will define these GNAC battles this season?

Share, comment, and stay connected for breaking updates and in-depth coverage from Anchorage.

Ticket Price (USD) Benefits General Admission $45 (hockey) / $60 (football) Seat in upper tier, free Wi‑Fi Premium Seat $85 (hockey) / $110 (football) Mid‑level view, exclusive lounge access Family Pack (4 adults + 2 kids) $300 (combined) Two premium seats, kid‑zone entry, souvenir program Student Pass $30 (hockey) / $45 (football) valid ID required, limited to first‑come, first‑served basis

Early‑bird discount: 10 % off for purchases before Nov 30 2025.

UAA Hosts Red Leafs & Vikings – Countdown to teh 2026 Festivity

Event Overview

  • host: University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) - seawolf Arena
  • Featured Teams: Toronto Red Leafs (women’s hockey) & Minnesota Vikings (men’s football)
  • Purpose: Opening ceremony for the 2026 collegiate sports season and a community‑wide celebration of North‑Pacific athletics
  • Dates: December 30 - January 2 2026 (four‑day “Winter Sports Fest”)
  • key Highlights:

  1. Inaugural “North‑Pacific Duel” series
  2. live‑streamed opening‑night ceremony with a 360° virtual‑reality experience
  3. Local vendor marketplace showcasing Alaska‑made products


Schedule & Matchups

Day Time (AKST) Event Venue Broadcast
Dec 30 12:00 PM Red Leafs vs. UAA Women’s Hockey – Exhibition Seawolf Arena ESPN+
Dec 31 7:30 PM Vikings vs.UAA Football – Kick‑off Anchorage Football Stadium CBS Sports Network
Jan 1 10:00 AM Community Clinic – Skills Workshop (Hockey & Football) Downtown Athletic Center YouTube Live
Jan 2 6:00 PM Closing Ceremony & Fireworks Seawolf Arena Local TV (KTVA)

All times are subject to change; see the official schedule for real‑time updates.


Venue Details

  • Seawolf Arena – 4,500‑seat indoor facility, recent renovations include a LED ribbon board and upgraded locker rooms.
  • Anchorage Football Stadium – 8,200‑seat outdoor stadium with heated standing areas and a newly installed synthetic turf designed for cold‑weather play.
  • Accessibility – ADA‑compliant entrances, wheelchair‑friendly seating, and dedicated assist‑tech services for visually impaired fans.

Ticketing & Pricing

Ticket Type Price (USD) Benefits
General Admission $45 (hockey) / $60 (football) Seat in upper tier, free Wi‑Fi
Premium Seat $85 (hockey) / $110 (football) Mid‑level view, exclusive lounge access
Family Pack (4 adults + 2 kids) $300 (combined) Two premium seats, kid‑zone entry, souvenir program
Student Pass $30 (hockey) / $45 (football) Valid ID required, limited to first‑come, first‑served basis

Early‑bird discount: 10 % off for purchases before Nov 30 2025.

  • Group sales: 15 % discount for parties of 10 or more.
  • Ticket platforms: Ticketmaster, UAA athletics website, and the official event app (iOS/Android).

Community Impact

  • Youth Engagement: Over 200 local school students will attend the skills clinic, promoting physical activity during winter months.
  • Cultural Exchange: The Red Leafs will host a “Canadian Winter Traditions” showcase, featuring Indigenous drumming and storytelling.
  • Volunteer Program: 150 volunteers recruited through Anchorage Non‑Profit Network, earning community‑service hours and exclusive merchandise.

Economic Benefits

  1. Tourism Boost: Estimated 5,000 out‑of‑state visitors generate ≈ $12 million in lodging, dining, and transportation revenue.
  2. Local Business Promotion: 30 vendors receive prime market stalls; a 20 % increase in sales reported compared to the previous winter festival.
  3. Job Creation: Temporary staffing for event operations adds ~200 part‑time positions, supporting the Anchorage service sector.

Broadcast & media Coverage

  • Live Streaming: Multi‑platform feed (ESPN+, CBS Sports, YouTube) with real‑time stats overlay and interactive polls.
  • Radio: KLUZ 610 AM will provide play‑by‑play commentary for the football game, including a post‑game interview with Vikings head coach.
  • Social Media: Official hashtags #UAA2026, #RedLeafsInAnchorage, #VikingsTakeAlaska drive user‑generated content; weekly countdown videos posted on TikTok and Instagram Reels.

Fan Experience & Amenities

  • Food & Beverage: 12 culinary stations offering Alaskan specialties-reindeer sausage, fresh salmon sushi, and locally roasted coffee.
  • Merchandise: Limited‑edition “UAA 2026 Winter Fest” apparel (hoodies, beanies, autographed jerseys) sold at the arena store and pop‑up stalls.
  • Technology: QR‑code wayfinding maps, in‑venue AR “player stats” feature accessible via the event app.
  • Family Zones: Heated play areas, stroller rentals, and nursing stations for parents with young children.

Practical Tips for Attendees

  1. Dress Warmly: Layered clothing, waterproof boots, and insulated gloves are essential for outdoor football viewing.
  2. Parking: Pre‑pay for the “Red Leafs Lot” (north campus) or “Vikings Lot” (south stadium) to secure a spot; shuttle service runs every 15 minutes.
  3. Transportation: Anchorage Transit offers a special “Fest Pass” for unlimited rides on routes 1, 5, and 7 during the event dates.
  4. Connectivity: Free Wi‑Fi is available throughout both venues; the event app provides real‑time updates on wait times at concession stands.
  5. safety: Security personnel and first‑aid stations are stationed at each entrance; adhere to all COVID‑19 guidelines (mask optional for fully vaccinated guests).

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q: Can I bring a pet to the arena?

A: Service animals are permitted; all other pets must stay at home.

  • Q: Is there a discount for UAA alumni?

A: Yes-present your alumni ID at the ticket window for a 12 % discount on any ticket tier.

  • Q: Will the games be recorded for on‑demand viewing?

A: Full match replays will be available on the UAA Athletics YouTube channel within 48 hours.

  • Q: Are there any special accommodations for international visitors?

A: The event website offers multilingual guides (english,French,Spanish) and currency conversion tools for ticket purchases.


Key Takeaway: The UAA 2026 Winter Fest, featuring the Red Leafs and Vikings, combines high‑caliber collegiate sport with community‑focused programming, delivering an unforgettable experience for fans, students, and the Anchorage region alike.

You may also like

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Adblock Detected

Please support us by disabling your AdBlocker extension from your browsers for our website.