ALASKA SPORTS TALK
ASAA 3A/4A Volleyball State Championships takes center stage on this episode of Alaska Sports Talk! Isaiah and Brad preview the 3A and 4A state tournaments, break down the brackets, and discuss how Alaska’s seeding system shapes the road to a championship. Dimond’s Ailafo Fautanu joins the show to talk about the Lynx’s undefeated season, their team chemistry, and the mindset they’re bringing into state. From standout teammates to staying humble under pressure, Ailafo shares why Dimond is approaching the tournament with a fresh 0–0 mentality. Kenai Central Kardinals Head Coach Tracie Beck helps preview the 3A field, highlighting the strength of the Southcentral Conference, Key contributors Mandy Roof and Gracie Every, and the competition awaiting teams at the Alaska Airlines Center. Plus, we recap the Anchorage Wolverines’ sweep of the Minnesota Mallards and strong home crowds, Also Kenai Brown Bears sweeping Fairbanks Ice Dogs. Watch the Full Episode on AST YouTube: https://youtu.be/-V6CtSicBL0
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AST RECENT EPISODES
A podcast all about Alaska Sports! We bring insight, knowledge, with an interesting and fun perspective about all the happenings in high school and college sports in Alaska!
Photos on AlaskaSportsTalk.com provided by Stephanie Goon (@goongallery96), Todd Ramoth and the University of Alaska Anchorage
SEASON 4, EPISODE 9
Listening Time: 50:56
Keaton, Brad, and Isaiah welcome South Anchorage head football coach John Lewis to recap the Wolverines’ second consecutive D1 state championship. Lewis breaks down the physical championship battle against West, highlighting Ethan Moore’s ground game, the offensive line’s work, and the defensive effort that helped secure the title. He also reflects on the team’s adjustments following early-season setbacks, his five state championships at South, and the coaches, families, and community behind the program’s success. The crew then turns to high school volleyball, reviewing the Dimond-Service Tournament, strong performances from Palmer and Homer, and the approaching region and state tournaments. On the college side, Keaton recaps UAA volleyball’s recent road success and previews the Seawolves’ rivalry matchup against the UAF Nanooks at the Alaska Airlines Center, with postseason hopes adding importance to the final stretch. Look at the Anchorage Wolverines’ record breaking crowd of 6,569 fans at Sullivan Arena for their matchup against Kenai. With Anchorage battling near the top of the Midwest Division, Isaiah shares how the organization’s Fans First approach helps create an exciting, welcoming experience for longtime supporters and first-time visitors alike. Watch the Full Episode on AST YouTube: https://youtu.be/M4M_HG1_kaE
SEASON 4, EPISODE 8
Championship football takes center stage on this episode of AST! Lathrop Football Head Coach Luke Balash and son Bo Balash Lathrop QB joins the crew to recap Lathrop’s Division II state championship victory over Soldotna, highlighting quarterback Boaz’s development, Wilson’s playmaking ability, and the veteran offensive line that helped make it all possible. From offseason work to championship execution, hear how the Malemutes built their success—and how the Fairbanks community rallied behind them. Next, South Anchorage’s Coach Lewis previews the Division I championship showdown against West. He discusses South’s defensive identity, overcoming early quarterback injuries, and finding stability with Ethan Harrington. With West’s powerful offensive line presenting a major challenge, Lewis explains why defense and the running game will be critical. The crew also touches on the Division III final between Kenai and Homer, Snowden Williams’ standout performance, and the challenges Alaska’s fall weather brings to outdoor championship games. Watch the Full Episode on AST YouTube: https://youtu.be/9T9GhcnoSSQ
SEASON 4, EPISODE 4
Isaiah and Brad welcome the new UAA Athletic Director Michael Bazemore for a conversation about leadership, student-athlete success, and connecting Seawolf sports with the community. Bazemore shares his journey from coaching youth sports to leading an athletic department, explains why UAA was the right next step, and describes learning a new institution as joining a team with a new playbook. The conversation tackles some of college athletics’ biggest questions—from transfers and name, image, and likeness opportunities to staffing and mentorship. Closer to home, the crew explores how to get more families into the stands, build lifelong fans, and turn game nights into can’t-miss community events. Friday night bragging rights: A Week 5 football recap and Week 6 preview, featuring rivalry talk, marquee matchups, and undefeated Lathrop’s 5–0 start. Seawolves on a roll: UAA volleyball opens conference play with wins over Seattle Pacific and Montana State Billings, while high school teams dig into their conference schedules. Flag football drama: Dimond takes an overtime thriller against South, and the hosts break down the growing role of RPI rankings in Alaska high school sports. Hockey buzz: The USA development team’s visit brings energy to the Sullivan Arena as the Anchorage Wolverines prepare for a three-week road trip. Watch the Full Episode on AST YouTube: https://youtu.be/GpYWRlDatDI