Alaska Sports Talk

Alaska Sports Talk

by Keaton Homer, Isaiah Vreeman, Brad Lauwers
Sports
Season 3

Steve Nerland American Legion & John Lewis South Anchorage Track & Field Head Coach, and more!

Steve Nerland from the American Legion Baseball team and the AST crew break down the Cook Inlet Conference baseball format, including how tournament byes work, why the final regular-season games matter so much, and which teams are positioning themselves for a big postseason run. Steve gives a detailed look at the current CIC standings, with Service leading the way, Dimond and Chugiak battling near the top, and strong pitching performances becoming the difference-maker as teams get ready for conference and state tournament play. The baseball conversation expands statewide with updates on Juneau, Sitka, Soldotna, and Southeast Alaska’s long history of postseason success on the diamond. The group also talks player development, year-round training, and standout athletes like Rylan from Service, who continues to turn heads with high-level talent and big-game potential. Steve also shares exciting updates on the continued growth of baseball in Alaska, including the impact of field turf at Mulcahy, Kosinski, and Bartlett, future turf-field possibilities, and major fundraising efforts supporting American Legion and youth baseball. From Alaska Airlines raffle tickets to a Beatles vs. Stones Battle of the Bands fundraiser, there are plenty of creative ways the baseball community is working to grow the game. To wrap things up, the crew welcomes John Lewis from South Anchorage High School for a great conversation on track and field, coaching multi-event teams, and the success of South’s athletic programs. John highlights standout athletes, the value of track for multi-sport development, and the culture that has helped South Anchorage build one of the strongest athletic programs in the state. Watch the Full Episode on AST YouTube Page: https://youtu.be/7K1AD9Z_ilA Please Like & Subscribe to the Alaska Sports Talk podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcast, and more! Like & Subscribe to our YouTube page (@AlaskaSportsTalk) for video clips of the show! Also Like and Follow our Facebook and Instagram to see everything with Alaska Sports!
S3 · E48
May 20, 2026
49:56

GUEST: Morgan Hooe UAA Volleyball Head Coach, Seattle Seahawks, Alaskan's in the Sports News, Spring Sports

This episode of Alaska Sports Talk welcomes Morgan Hooe, the new head coach of UAA Women’s Volleyball, for a fun and wide-ranging conversation about taking over one of Alaska’s premier college programs. Morgan talks about the whirlwind start to her new role, stepping in during January, meeting with the team, bringing Austin Osborne on board as acting assistant coach for the spring, and beginning the work of building the next chapter of Seawolf volleyball. She shares how her volleyball journey was shaped by her parents’ different coaching styles, her championship mindset, and her belief that great athletes are built through discipline, trust, and being challenged the right way. The conversation dives into Morgan’s vision for UAA volleyball, including creating a competitive but supportive team culture, growing the fan base, connecting with local youth, and making Alaska athletes a major part of the program’s future. She also talks about the value of multi-sport athletes, the difference between sand and indoor volleyball, and why keeping talented Alaskans at UAA can be so powerful for both the players and the community. Baseball weather problems, tournament field survival strategies, sump pumps, domes, rainouts, and why games somehow still happen when Don is involved. They also break down changes to the Division II baseball championship format, Isaiah has a rant on the NFL schedule frustrations, highlight Alaskans making noise in professional sports, and preview the final stretch of track, field, and soccer action around the state. A loaded episode featuring volleyball vision, Alaska athlete pride, spring sports madness, and plenty of AST-style conversation along the way! Watch the Full Episode on AST YouTube Page: https://youtu.be/OtfTKkObDuA Please Like & Subscribe to the Alaska Sports Talk podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcast, and more! Like & Subscribe to our YouTube page (@AlaskaSportsTalk) for video clips of the show! Also Like and Follow our Facebook and Instagram to see everything with Alaska Sports!
S3 · E47
May 12, 2026
39:24

Alaska Spring Sports - Baseball, Softball, and Soccer Updates

Keaton, Brad, and Isaiah kicked things off talking about the chaos of Alaska spring sports schedules, with baseball and softball games stacking up quickly as teams battle weather, travel, and exhaustion. The baseball conversation brought plenty of insight, especially around pitching strategy in high school tournaments. Keaton explained why championship teams need more than just one ace, while the guys discussed how smart coaches save arms and manage short tournament runs. They also highlighted Sitka’s Caleb Calhoun after his monster 17-strikeout performance — the highest strikeout total in Alaska since 2018. There was also plenty of love for Alaska athletes competing at the next level, including Liam Learman at the University of Washington, Cohen Nicolai at Arizona State, Rylan Nicolai, and Willie Paul after a strong showing at a pro showcase in Canada. The episode also covered: ⚾ Alaska high school baseball standings and field updates 🥎 Softball standings with Dimond staying undefeated in conference play ⚽ High school soccer standings, including South girls soccer’s eye-popping 111 goals scored and only 2 allowed 🏟️ Updates on Mulcahy Stadium, McKay Park, and Kaczynski field conditions 📅 Upcoming state soccer championships on May 28-30 🏀 Kamaka Hepa’s professional basketball success overseas in Croatia Watch the Full Episode on AST YouTube Page: https://youtu.be/Wrdj82h0oGU Please Like & Subscribe to the Alaska Sports Talk podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcast, and more! Like & Subscribe to our YouTube page (@AlaskaSportsTalk) for video clips of the show! Also Like and Follow our Facebook and Instagram to see everything with Alaska Sports!
S3 · E46
May 6, 2026
42:27

Alaska High School Hall of Fame Interviews: Dick Shellhorn, Tom Hollman, Jackson Lehnhart, Gary Lehnhart, Diana Ervin, Jamie Smith, Robert Walkotte, and Colton Lauwers

The Alaska Sports Talk podcast brings you a special, can’t-miss episode celebrating the Class of 2026 Alaska High School Hall of Fame Inductees—a group that helped shape the foundation and future of sports across the state. In this episode, we sit down with an incredible lineup of inductees including Dick Shellhorn, Tom Hollman, Jackson Lehnhart, Gary Lehnhart, Diana Ervin, Jamie Smith, Robert Walkotte, and Colton Lauwers. Each conversation dives into their journeys, the defining moments of their careers, and the impact they’ve had on athletes, programs, and communities throughout Alaska. From decades of coaching excellence and program building to unforgettable performances on the field and court, these inductees share stories that highlight what makes Alaska athletics so unique—grit, community, and a deep love for the game. You’ll hear reflections on how the sport has evolved in the state, lessons learned along the way, and what this honor means not just personally, but for the generations that follow. It’s a powerful episode filled with legacy, perspective, and appreciation for the people who built Alaska high school sports into what it is today. Please Like & Subscribe to the Alaska Sports Talk podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcast, and more! Like & Subscribe to our YouTube page (@AlaskaSportsTalk) for video clips of the show! Also Like and Follow our Facebook and Instagram to see everything with Alaska Sports!
S3 · E45
Apr 30, 2026
51:28

Matt Nevala Alaska Sports Report, Anchorage Wolverines, UAA Hockey New Coach, & Alaska High School Hall of Fame

It’s a packed episode of AST as the crew dives into a major shake-up in college hockey with Eric Rood taking over the UAA Seawolves program. What does his D1 experience mean for the future of Seawolves hockey? And with powerhouse programs like Denver Pioneers and Colorado College Tigers coming to Anchorage, is this the spark the program needs? The conversation shifts to the Anchorage Wolverines as the guys break down a rollercoaster season that ended with drama—literally down to 0.2 seconds. From a tough 2-win start to a season full of comebacks and electric home crowds, the Wolverines gave fans plenty to remember. Plus, there’s already buzz about what’s coming next… including a teased September event you won’t want to miss 👀 The episode wraps with powerful moments from recent Hall of Fame ceremonies, including reflections on Alaska’s rich sports history and upcoming inductions featuring legends like Dick Griffith, Butch Lincoln, and Sean Rash. From coaching changes to community impact, this episode covers everything happening across the Alaska sports landscape right now. Watch this episode on AST YouTube: https://youtu.be/cf6h7fCcSXs Please Like & Subscribe to the Alaska Sports Talk podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcast, and more! Like & Subscribe to our YouTube page (@AlaskaSportsTalk) for video clips of the show! Also Like and Follow our Facebook and Instagram to see everything with Alaska Sports!
S3 · E44
Apr 28, 2026
56:21

Cameron Turner UAA Men's Basketball Head Coach, Anchorage Wolverines & Ice Dogs NAHL Playoffs, High School Hall of Fame, Baseball

The guys sit down with the new face of University of Alaska Anchorage basketball—Head Coach Cameron Turner—and then pivot straight into playoff hockey drama and rising stars across Alaska sports. Cameron Turner kicks things off with a heartfelt return to UAA, the place where his college coaching journey began. He shares how mentor Rusty Osborne shaped his philosophy—not just as a coach, but as a family man—and why that balance matters more than ever in today’s game. From VHS tapes to NIL deals, he breaks down how recruiting has completely evolved, and how he’s navigating the chaos of the transfer portal to build a winning program in Anchorage. But this isn’t just about X’s and O’s—it’s about people. Cameron dives into mentoring student-athletes beyond the court, teaching life skills, financial awareness, and building trust. He’s also making a strong push to keep Alaska talent home, with an Elite Camp set for May 28 and a clear vision to reconnect with in-state athletes and coaches. And yes… the guy knows big men. With a track record that includes coaching NBA star Kevin Love, coach shares insight into developing dominant post players—including his current 7’2” prospect—and what it really takes to elevate them to the next level. Then it’s playoff time! We break down the latest with the Anchorage Wolverines, who are battling to stay alive in their series against the Minnesota Wilderness. After a Game 1 win, the Wolverines dropped the next two and now face a must-win Game 4 at Sullivan Arena. Around the state, playoff pressure isn’t just in Anchorage. The Fairbanks Ice Dogs are also fighting uphill, while on the baseball diamond, Rylan Nikolai is making serious noise with a monster performance—two home runs in a single game—and putting himself firmly in the Player of the Year conversation. The episode wraps with a great conversation on the growth of Alaska baseball—how facilities, travel teams, and exposure to Lower 48 competition are changing the game for young athletes across the state. Watch this episode on AST YouTube: https://youtu.be/Yt21M8ogZyc Please Like & Subscribe to the Alaska Sports Talk podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcast, and more! Like & Subscribe to our YouTube page (@AlaskaSportsTalk) for video clips of the show! Also Like and Follow our Facebook and Instagram to see everything with Alaska Sports!
S3 · E43
Apr 21, 2026
50:19

Frank Ostanik University of Fairbanks Mens Basketball Head Coach

On this episode, Brad Lauwers sits down with Frank Ostanik for a great conversation covering all things Alaska basketball. Coach “Frank O.” dives into his recent season at University of Alaska Fairbanks, breaking down the team’s journey, key moments, and the growth he saw from his players throughout the year. The two also talk about his coaching philosophy, building a competitive program in Alaska, and what it takes to develop talent at the college level. From behind-the-scenes stories to big-picture insights on the game, this episode gives listeners a deeper look at UAF basketball and the continued growth of hoops in the state. Please Like & Subscribe to the Alaska Sports Talk podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcast, and more! Like & Subscribe to our YouTube page (@AlaskaSportsTalk) for video clips of the show! Also Like and Follow our Facebook and Instagram to see everything with Alaska Sports!
S3 · E42
Apr 15, 2026
29:43

Krehg Perez Dimond Boys Basketball Head Coach sits down with Brad Lauwers

On this episode, we’re joined by Krehg Perez, head coach of Dimond boys basketball and a key administrator with the Alaska Association of Basketball Coaches, for a deep dive into Alaska hoops. Coach Perez takes us behind the scenes of the AABC All-Star Game—what it means for players across the state, how selections come together, and why the event continues to be such a special way to celebrate Alaska’s top seniors. He also reflects on his recent season at Dimond, sharing lessons learned, team growth, and what it takes to compete at a high level in Alaska basketball. From statewide talent to the tight-knit basketball community, this episode is packed with insight, perspective, and a true appreciation for the game across Alaska. Please Like & Subscribe to the Alaska Sports Talk podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcast, and more! Like & Subscribe to our YouTube page (@AlaskaSportsTalk) for video clips of the show! Also Like and Follow our Facebook and Instagram to see everything with Alaska Sports!
S3 · E41
Apr 15, 2026
18:12

Jason Boerger Grace Christian Boys Head Coach and Eric Stockhausen Ketchikan Boys Head Coach

On this episode, we’re joined by Jason Boerger and Eric Stockhausen for a great conversation centered around the Alaska Association of Basketball Coaches All-Star Game and the state of basketball across Alaska. Coach Boerger and Coach Stockhausen share what makes the AABC All-Star event so special—from celebrating the top seniors in the state to creating one last opportunity for players to compete and connect. They also dive into the unique challenges and strengths of Alaska basketball, including travel, community support, and the continued growth of the game from Southeast to the Railbelt and beyond. It’s a fun, insightful episode that highlights the people, passion, and pride behind Alaska high school basketball. Please Like & Subscribe to the Alaska Sports Talk podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcast, and more! Like & Subscribe to our YouTube page (@AlaskaSportsTalk) for video clips of the show! Also Like and Follow our Facebook and Instagram to see everything with Alaska Sports!
S3 · E40
Apr 15, 2026
22:58

South Anchorage Basketball Coach JD Lincoln and North Pole Head Coach Travis Church

On this episode, Brad Lauwers sits down with South Anchorage assistant coach JD Lincoln to talk about a special moment for his family as his father was inducted into the AABC Hall of Fame—diving into legacy, mentorship, and what the game of basketball means across generations. North Pole girls head coach Travis Church who shares insights on building a competitive program, developing players, and the growth of girls basketball in Alaska. It’s a great conversation filled with perspective, passion, and plenty of hoops talk from around the state. Please Like & Subscribe to the Alaska Sports Talk podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcast, and more! Like & Subscribe to our YouTube page (@AlaskaSportsTalk) for video clips of the show! Also Like and Follow our Facebook and Instagram to see everything with Alaska Sports!
S3 · E39
Apr 15, 2026
18:26
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