Beth Bragg

Messing, who competes for Canada, is among the elite skaters invited to participate in the Olympic figure skating gala, an exhibition that traditionally marks the end of the Winter Games.

The 28-year-old defenseman from Anchorage was on the ice for one of the U.S. goals and was a constant, steady presence in the game.

Messing, the Anchorage athlete who skates for Canada, finished with a strong free skate, displaying the showmanship he has become known for during a two-decade career.

Messing, a lifelong Alaskan who skates for Canada, nailed all three of his jumps to place ninth.

The top male skater on Canada’s Olympic team is expected to reach Beijing in time to compete in the singles short program.

Canadian officials say they are looking for flights that would get Messing to Beijing prior to the men’s singles competition on Tuesday. He missed a team competition on Thursday.

Messing, who competes for Team Canada, needs two negative tests separated by 24 hours before he will be cleared to travel to Beijing.

Keegan Messing is a medal contender in figure skating, plus a comeback in cross-country skiing and career highlight in hockey.

The New York City man offers a background in fundraising and marketing -- and coaching.

Filling a roster with players from western Canada “isn’t working right now,” finalist Steve Murphy said. “We have to look at different avenues.”

The Chugiak High graduate said his deep roots in Anchorage hockey give him passion, commitment and connections.

Once a rising star in snowmachine racing, Graeber was severely injured in a race 13 years ago. This summer he became a state and city motocross champion.

Former Wasilla Warriors coach Ryan Engebretsen and former UAF player Jalon McCullough will help coach the Seawolves this season.

Valentina Shevchenko scored a fifth-round TKO in the women’s flyweight championship fight at UFC 266.

The three men — Matt Shasby, Steve Murphy and Chris Cosentino — will appear at forums Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at UAA.