After securing home ice advantage for the first round of the CCHA playoffs, the UAF hockey team hoped its seniors would end their Nanook careers with victories at the Carlson Center March 12-14 against a team they had already beaten twice this season.  As it turned out however, the Northern Michigan Wildcats' defense was just too strong, thanks mainly to the inspired performance of their second string goalie who blocked an incredible 65 shots. 

On Friday night, senior left wing Cory Rask scored the only Nanook goal early in the third period of a game the ‘Nooks were never really in.  Despite two power play opportunities in the second period, the Nanooks could not manage to get off very many good shots, and the bounces never seemed to go their way.  The result was a 3-1 loss and a must win situation going into Saturday's match-up.

On Saturday night, the Nanooks played better, but again the bounces just weren't there.  Aaron Voros and Kelly Czuy each scored once in the second period, giving the sixth consecutive full capacity crowd a reason to cheer. But the only lead the Nanooks enjoyed for the entire series lasted only 24 seconds as the Wildcats rushed back and tied the game at 2-2.  The Wildcats then went on to score the game winning goal early in the third period and the Nanook season ended on a 3-2 loss.

After the game, as the pressroom filled with Nanook fans, the Wildcat players commented on how impressed they were with the dedicated "white-out" crowd. Battling high emotions, eight of the team's nine seniors came out to talk to the fans after playing in their last game as Nanooks. 

Speaking on behalf of the seniors, Cory Rask said, "You've made this the best to play hockey ever.  There is no other place I'd rather play." 

Many of the fans echoed his sentiment as they shared their small town memories of big time hockey.  It was like a family reunion where everyone thanked everyone for all that they've done. The seniors emphasized as parting advice the importance of commitment and work ethic, reminding me of something I had forgotten, that nothing feels better than being part of a team.

Player Cam Keith said, "I have lots of good memories.  I'm gonna miss my eight best friends – eight brothers."

photo by Stephanie Taylor / Sun Star

Junior Jared Sylvestre defends against Northern Michigan Friday night at the Carlson Center. The Nanooks were swept by the Wildcats in the CCHA playoffs.

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