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Photo courtesy of Bruce Cech.
Bruce Cech interviews UAF men’s basketball head coach George Roderick at the Big Island Invitational in Hilo, Hawaii, in 1995.

By Felicia Burud

For nearly four decades, the sounds of Fairbanks winter have included not just the crunch of snow and the hum of heaters but also the energetic, unmistakable cadence of Bruce Cech.

Known to generations as the “Voice of the Nanooks” on the radio and in the arena, Cech is the recipient of the 2026 William R. Cashen Service Award from the UAF �ֻ�ֱ�� Association. The honor recognizes his staggering 37 seasons of dedication to UAF and �ֻ�ֱ�� Nanooks athletics.

Though Cech has returned to his roots in Michigan, his heart and his voice remain firmly planted at center ice in the Carlson Center. Even from 3,800 miles away, Cech continues to paint the vivid “audio picture” for fans who wouldn't dream of missing a game.

A million miles, a thousand stories

Cech’s journey with the Nanooks is a testament to the enduring spirit of “once a Nanook, always a Nanook.” Since the late 1980s, Cech has logged over a million miles, traveling from Maine to Hawaii to cover �ֻ�ֱ�� Nanooks hockey, basketball and volleyball.

“It keeps you young,” Cech said of his 37-year tenure. “I’m 69 years old right now, but I feel like I’m 21, because all those guys I represent on the airwaves are basically 21 or 22 years old.”

His career has spanned the eras of nine different UAF hockey head coaches, from Ric Schafer to current coach Erik Largen. In a letter of support for the award, Largen noted that Cech’s commitment isn't just about the play-by-play; it’s about the presence.

“Bruce represents Nanook Athletics with passion, professionalism, and heart,” Largen wrote. “He’s been a constant companion to generations of fans.”

In 2015, when Cech arrived in Big Rapids to call a road series against Ferris State Bulldogs, he was greeted with a framed sign commemorating his 1,000th game behind the microphone, a milestone that reflects both longevity and deep connection to the program. 

The digital bridge

In recent years, Cech has adapted to a new challenge: calling �ֻ�ֱ�� Nanook hockey games remotely through a screen.

While he misses the "cold air off the ice" at the Carlson Center, his enthusiasm hasn't waned. Alongside color commentator Mike McCauley, Cech manages to make listeners feel as though they are sitting right next to the penalty box, even when he’s four time zones away.

“I’m my biggest critic,” Cech admitted. “I’ll go back and listen and think, ‘God, I don't think I had a real good game.’ Then people tell me, ‘Man, it’s like you’re at the arena!’”

Beyond the rink

While hockey is his primary “go-to card,” Cech’s legacy includes legendary moments on the hardwood. He recalls the thrill of calling the 1996 Top of the World Classic championship men’s basketball game between Alabama and Middle Tennessee State, which was broadcast nationally on Fox Sports Net.

Whether it was watching future NHL Stanley Cup champions like Jordan Hendry or Colton Parayko back when they were “eating Top Ramen noodles on campus,” or engaging with fans at the local bowling alley who recognize his “radio voice” instantly, Cech’s impact is woven into the fabric of the Fairbanks community.

A humbled ambassador

The William R. Cashen Service Award is reserved for those who show “unwavering dedication and selfless commitment.” For a man who began his career receiving press notes via snail mail and now uses high-speed internet to scout opponents, the tools have changed, but the mission remains the same.

“I get to represent the university, the hockey team and Fairbanks as a whole,” Cech said. “I’m humbled, and I’m honored.”

He credited Lynn Lashbrook, former UAF athletic director, for helping establish the early foundation of Nanook broadcasts by securing airtime and opportunity. 

As he prepares for season number 38, the “Voice of the Nanooks” shows no signs of slowing down. For the fans in their cars, living rooms and earbuds, the message is clear: As long as there is a puck on the ice, Bruce Cech will be there to tell the story.

Felicia Burud is the associate director of UAF alumni relations.