Gavin Struve

3 days ago | newsminer.com | Gavin Struve

The Alaska Goldpanners’ 2025 infield is the only position group without any returners (compared to the bullpen and outfield) from last year’s team, but it’s also the position group with the highest concentration of NCAA Division I players. Six of the eight infielders and catchers played for D1 programs this spring or have signed to do so next year. Ian Armstrong is one of two catchers on this year’s roster and one of two Goldpanners from Saint Mary’s College.

4 days ago | newsminer.com | Gavin Struve

Exactly two dozen soccer players from West Valley High School and Lathrop High School were named to the 2025 Railbelt All-Conference teams, one more than the 23 honored last year. Juneau-Douglas senior Kai Ciambor and Colony senior Avrie Geigerich were named the 2025 boys and girls Railbelt Conference Player of the Year, respectively.

6 days ago | newsminer.com | Gavin Struve

Monroe Catholic sophomore Tristin Nicholson became the only Fairbanks athlete to win a state title at the 2025 Alaska Track and Field State Championships this weekend, and North Pole senior Izzy Kizer became the only Interior athlete to win gold at the Alaska Division I Track and Field State Championships. Kizer, a Valdez transfer who won the triple jump title, became a third-time state champion after winning two Division II state titles her sophomore season.

6 days ago | newsminer.com | Gavin Struve

Immediately after the West Valley boys secured their first appearance in the ASAA D1 soccer state title game since 2017, the on-field postgame scenes were a contrast of exaltation and exasperation. While West Valley’s players raced onto and around the turf, Colony’s collapsed to their knees. The Wolfpack won 2-1 over Colony, the same score they defeated Dimond by one day earlier to advance to the state semifinals.

6 days ago | newsminer.com | Gavin Struve

After reaching their first-ever girls soccer state semifinals appearance by blowing out Grace Christian on Thursday, Monroe Catholic was within striking distance of playing for a state title. But the Rams ultimately lost 2-1 in the semifinals to No. 1 seed Kenai Central, the defending state champion, who clinched the victory with a penalty kick via senior captain Sarah Baisden in stoppage time.