FORT WAINWRIGHT, Alaska - Members of the U.S. Army Alaska hockey team cheer as the puck goes in the net during the 2013 Army versus Air Force Commander's Cup Championship at the Big Dipper Ice Arena in Fairbanks. USARAK is currently recruiting the be...

FORT WAINWRIGHT, Alaska - If you're a Soldier and you can skate, you need to be at the Physical Fitness Center Saturday at 8 a.m. for preliminary tryouts. This is an opportunity to represent United States Army Alaska in the Commander's Cup Championship. The game is scheduled to be played at the Carlson Center Feb. 28, and the mission is to beat Air Force.

"We are trying to recruit the best hockey talent and experience from across the Army in Interior Alaska, including Soldiers from Fort Wainwright and Fort Greely," said Lt. Joshua Miller, 1st Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division.

Players selected for the team will practice during physical training hours from 6 to 7:30 a.m. Miller said this has been authorized by the USARAK deputy commanding officer.

The game itself will be played before the University of Alaska Fairbanks Nanooks take on Ferris State.

"The intent is to showcase the spirit of competition within the Department of Defense in Alaska and to reinforce the culture of hockey within the Army, Air Force and surrounding community," Miller said.

An informational meeting and initial assessment will be held Saturday. Those interested should bring pen, paper, skates, stick and helmet.

The final assessment is scheduled for Monday at 6 a.m., and all players should bring their gear, Miller said. "Goalies should bring all their gear both days."

For more information call Joshua Miller at (907) 888-5490.