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A mix of clouds and sun. High 73F. Winds light and variable..
Partly cloudy this evening, then becoming cloudy after midnight. Low 48F. Winds light and variable.
Updated: August 12, 2025 @ 5:37 am
Caleb Jones
Teams shake hands following a hockey game at the Alaska International Senior Games.
Caleb Jones
Skaters gather near the net after a shot attempt during a contest at the 2025 Alaska International Senior Games.
Caleb Jones
Teams shake hands following a hockey game at the Alaska International Senior Games.
Caleb Jones
Skaters gather near the net after a shot attempt during a contest at the 2025 Alaska International Senior Games.
As the Alaska International Senior Games (AISG) continue, hockey took center ice for three days of competition. A total of 48 players, ranging in age from 45 to over 85, made up four teams participating in the tournament.
Given Fairbanks’ vibrant hockey scene spanning youth leagues, high schools, NAHL juniors, a collegiate team and adult leagues, it’s no surprise that hockey ranks among the most popular sports at the Senior Games.
One key figure is Laird Grantham, both the commissioner of the hockey group and an active player. The sport sees many returners year after year, with teams consisting of both men and women sharing the ice.
While many participants bring a lifetime of experience, some discovered a passion for the sport later on, creating a mix of seasoned veterans and newer players on the ice.
“The better skaters, they grew up playing hockey, but a lot of these guys picked it up in their late 20s or 30s, and stuck with it through the old timers league, same with the women,” Grantham said. “You get the bug, you know, once you get started, you can’t stop.”
Hockey is among the most competitive events at the AISG, with Grantham describing the mindset of the players.
“It’s very competitive,” he said. “Everybody wants to win. You get gold, silver and bronze medals — and everybody likes those medals… everybody pretty well knows everybody, and it’s good fun.”
Teams were divided by color — red, black, yellow and blue — and faced off in a round-robin format over three days. The team with the most wins, or the highest goal total if a tiebreaker is needed, is crowned the champion.
Each team held 12 players on their roster, with a minimum of two men and women on the ice at any given time. Players were decked out in full gear, going the length of the ice in a competitive environment.
The setup ensured plenty of action for the players throughout the three days, many of whom will also compete in other events during the games. Many play hockey actively throughout the year, with the Senior Games being a big part of their annual routine.
“I grew up in Fairbanks, and I’ve been in hockey since I was 13,” Grantham said. “I just love the game. I’ve coached, I’ve reffed, I’m still a player… can’t get away from it.”
The teams competed over three days, from Saturday through Monday, playing a total of six games at the Big Dipper Ice Arena. Each game consisted of three 20-minute periods with a continuous clock.
The Alaska International Senior Games continue through Aug. 17, featuring a variety of activities across Fairbanks and North Pole. Most days include at least three contests, keeping the competition going strong throughout the schedule.
Contact Caleb Jones at (907) 459-7530 or at cjones@newsminer.com.
Photo by Jim Roon
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Hockey News