UAA announces naming of Avis Alaska Sports Complex

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UAA announces naming of Avis Alaska Sports Complex
The facility is home to UAA Hockey and was previously known as the Seawolf Sports Complex

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – The University of Alaska Anchorage announced the on-campus Seawolf Sports Complex will henceforth be named the Avis Alaska Sports Complex (ASC). The announcement was made by UAA Chancellor Sean Parnell in conjunction with Avis Alaska.

“We are honored Avis Alaska has chosen to make a long-term investment in the university and in Seawolf Athletics,” said Parnell. “This truly serves as a vote of confidence in UAA’s direction, and we couldn’t be more grateful. The entire community will benefit from this partnership, and we are especially excited about what this means for the future of Seawolf Hockey.”

“Avis Alaska is proud to be strengthening our 35-year-old relationship with UAA,” said Andrew Halcro, chairman of the board for Avis Alaska. “We believe the university represents Alaska’s best hope for the future and we are excited to be partners.”

The facility, which opened in 1978, is home to UAA’s Division I hockey program. In addition to the ice rink, locker rooms and coaches offices, the facility features a gymnasium, pool, fitness center, aerobics areas and more.

These spaces support intramural sports as well as recreation and kinesiology courses focused on physical activity, exercise science, recreation and wellness. The university is exploring renovation concepts that will further optimize the facility, specifically the ice rink and spectator bleachers.

“Seawolf Hockey players gave more than 500 hours of volunteer service to our community last year. It’s wonderful to see businesses and the community return the favor and invest in the student athletes,” said Kathie Bethard, chair of Seawolf Hockey Alliance. “This long-term sponsorship by Avis Alaska and its investment in updating the seating around the rink will help improve the fan experience by making the live games more comfortable and enjoyable to spectators. Equally important, it also shows the community support behind Seawolf Hockey and the desire to help grow the program.”

“Today is another excellent step forward for our hockey program,” said UAA Director of Athletics Ryan Swartwood. “Avis Alaska’s generosity and commitment to improving our fan experience is inspiring. They have been a key supporter of UAA Athletics for many years, and we are incredibly grateful for their continued partnership.”

The ASC naming agreement between UAA and Avis Alaska is a 10-year contract valued at $1 million and includes an option to extend the agreement for an additional three years through June 30, 2036 based on mutually agreed additional investment. The contract is effective July 1, 2023.

For more information about UAA Hockey, visit goseawolves.com. For more information about Avis Alaska, visit avisalaska.com.

Alaska Spring Bucket List: Top 5 Must-Do Activities with AVIS Alaska

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Welcome to AVIS Alaska! If you’re planning a trip to Alaska in the spring, you’re in for a treat. Spring in the Last Frontier brings a sense of renewal and an abundance of natural wonders. As we start coming out of sub-freezing temperatures and the sun stays in the sky longer, Alaska bursts with activity, wildlife sightings, and unique experiences. As your trusted car rental company, we’ve got you covered with the top five bucket list items that most people have on their itinerary when they plan a trip to Alaska in the spring.

  1. Witness the Northern Lights in Fairbanks – When the long winter nights give way to spring, the dancing ribbons of the Northern Lights illuminate the Alaskan skies. Fairbanks, known as the “Golden Heart City,” is a prime destination to witness this awe-inspiring phenomenon. Head out on clear nights to designated viewing areas or join a guided tour to increase your chances of catching nature’s spectacular light show.
  2. Explore Kenai Fjords National Park in Seward – Spring is an ideal time to visit Kenai Fjords National Park in the charming coastal town of Seward. This pristine park offers breathtaking glaciers, rugged coastlines, and abundant marine life. Hop on a boat tour and marvel at the towering glaciers, spot whales and sea otters, and experience the dramatic beauty of this untouched wilderness.
  3. Go Wildlife Viewing in Denali National Park – Denali National Park, home to the majestic Denali (Mount McKinley), is a must-visit destination in late spring. Wildlife becomes more active as the park awakens from winter, making it a perfect time for viewing wildlife. Take a guided bus tour into the park, and watch for grizzly bears, moose, caribou, and the elusive wolves. The backdrop of snow-capped mountains just adds to the enchantment.
  4. Take a Scenic Drive on the Seward Highway – The Seward Highway, a designated All-American Road, offers a mesmerizing journey between Anchorage and Seward. As spring arrives, the landscape comes alive with vibrant wildflowers, rushing waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. Don’t forget to make stops along the way, like the Chugach Mountains, Turnagain Arm, and the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, to observe native wildlife up close.
  5. Experience the Iditarod Trail in Anchorage – Alaska is synonymous with dog sledding, and the annual Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race is a legendary event that captures the spirit of the state. While the race takes place in early March, the excitement lingers throughout the spring. Visit the Iditarod Headquarters in Anchorage to learn about this historic race, meet sled dogs, and even take a thrilling dog sled ride.

These top five bucket list items will make your spring trip to Alaska unforgettable. From witnessing the Northern Lights in Fairbanks to exploring the Kenai Fjords, encountering wildlife in Denali National Park, driving the scenic Seward Highway, and experiencing the spirit of the Iditarod in Anchorage, Alaska offers something extraordinary in the spring.

AVIS Alaska is here to make your journey more enjoyable and convenient. Rent a car from us to have the freedom and flexibility to explore the best of Alaska’s springtime wonders. Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime in the Last Frontier!