I think a major problem is lots of the people with a strong opinion on these budget issues are people who, while familiar or associated with the UA system, are not directly affected by it here and now. It's easy to be an alumni or community member viewing these problems from the outside and thinking, "Why the heck would anyone in their right mind EVER consider cutting our hockey team?!" 

I am a current UAF student and it is EXTREMELY frustrating to see teachers leave and programs get slashed while, up until now, sports haven't even been seriously brought up! All students are forced to buy season tickets (keep that in mind when looking at calculated "fan" numbers), and I personally have been at UAF for 6 years and don't know a single person who actually goes to the games. 

As a side note, if you have an opinion on the budget issues, don't just comment on ADN. Do something about it! Write letters! Go to Board of Regents meetings!