Seattle Kraken supporting effort to save hockey program at University of Alaska Anchorage

The Seattle Kraken, the Emerald City’s incoming NHL franchise, have joined an effort to save the hockey program at the University of Alaska Anchorage.

The Kraken have given a challenge grant of more than $150,000 — raised through team and individual donors — to support efforts to save the 42-year-old Seawolf Hockey program, which is facing elimination due to state budget cuts. The ‘Save Seawolf Hockey’ organization aims to raise $3 million to support the program over the next two years while a long-term plan is established.

The Seawolf Hockey program holds far-reaching significance to the Kraken, as it’s one of just two NCAA Division I men’s hockey programs that will be in the franchise’s broadcast footprint. ROOT Sports, announced as the Kraken’s regional sports network in January, will carry Kraken games in Washington, Oregon, Alaska, Montana and Idaho.

Having an active University of Alaska Anchorage hockey program figures to be an important facet for the growth of hockey in the Northwest and, simultaneously, the brand of the Kraken, who will debut in late 2021.

“We are so proud that Alaska is part of our extended broadcast territory,” Kraken CEO Tod Leiweke told the team’s website. “We want to be part of the community in Anchorage and through the state. Hockey is so incredibly authentic in Alaska, which I have visited many times and found it so enchanting. This (challenge grant) won’t be the only thing we do but it might be the most important.”

The ‘Save Seawolf Hockey’ organization has so far raised more than $1.8 million toward its $3 million goal.

Fans can learn more about the cause here.