Erik Drygas: A Collegiate Hockey Recruiting Story

Erik was born and raised in Fairbanks, Alaska and athletics has played a huge role in his life. He first put hockey skates on at the age of 7 when his dad helped him onto the ice and always encouraged him to do his best. He played youth hockey in Fairbanks and later played junior hockey in Vail, Colorado, Dubuque and Waterloo (Iowa). These experiences prepared him for Division I Hockey and signed a scholarship with University of Alaska Fairbanks Nanooks at the age of 17. Erik played a total of 3 years with the Nanooks and at the age of 20, unexpectedly caught an edge with his skate during a routine practice and suffered a catastrophic injury. He is currently a C-5 quadriplegic. This moment transformed Erik's life. He was faced with overcoming new obstacles and challenges that he never could’ve imagined. The community rallied around him, as did the Colorado Avalanche team in Denver, Colorado where he did his rehabilitation at Craig Hospital. Most importantly, his family is his rock.

He returned to UAF and graduated in 2000 with a degree in Elementary Education. Erik coached high school hockey for West Valley High School from 2000-2008. After 26 years injured, he continues to stay involved with Nanook hockey. He assists with alumni outreach and for 25 seasons he has been the TV and radio color commentator for the home games of Nanook hockey. Erik and his wife (Emily) reside in Fairbanks, Alaska and enjoy the Alaskan outdoors with their two daughters (Annika & Ava).