UAF hockey team ends season with a bang

By Gabriele Rigaudo

Photo courtesy of Don Adams Jr.

The University of Alaska Fairbanks hockey team celebrates with supporters after winning the United Collegiate Hockey Cup.

The University of Alaska Fairbanks’ hockey team ended the 2025-26 season winning the first edition of the United Collegiate Hockey Cup 4-3 against Lindenwood. The Nanooks took home the tournament trophy after a tight final game ending in overtime on March 7. This is their second title of 2026 after the Alaska Airlines Governor’s Cup win against Anchorage.

The highlight of the night was delivered by senior and captain Chase Dafoe. In his last game as a Nanook, he scored his fifth game-winner of the season to secure the tournament win.

Head Coach Erik Largen mentioned how the win feels like “the culmination of our season,” highlighting how the team was able to perform consistently at a high level.

Another senior showcased an impressive performance in the final when Lassi Lehti, the starting goalie, helped clinch the win with 39 saves in the final alone.

Three Nanooks were named in the UCHC All-Tournament Team: forward Michael Citara, defenseman Nathan Rickey, and goalie Lassi Lehti. Lehti was also named Most Valuable Player of the tournament after an impressive 72 saves total.

This last win brings the season score for the Nooks up to 15-15-3, confirming an upward trend showcased during the new year. In 2026, the team went 11-5-2.