Penalty Box Post Quick Hit
Thursday, May 27th
Robert Morris Univ. discontinues D-I hockey programs
Citing “a series of strategic initiatives intended to position the university to be amongst the most agile and professionally focused schools in the nation as it prepares for its upcoming 100th anniversary,” Robert Morris University announced yesterday that it would no longer field NCAA Division I men's and women's hockey teams, effective immediately.
RMU noted that it will honor all scholarships currently being received by the affected student-athletes – including incoming players who have signed National Letters-of-Intent – and will assist those who wish to transfer. Under NCAA rules, those who do transfer in this situation will not have to sit out a season at their new school. The university approximated that 55 student-athletes and seven staff positions are impacted by this decision.
In the “frequently asked questions” section of the announcement, RMU stated, “The decision to discontinue the men’s and women’s ice hockey programs was made based on an analysis which included scholarships and operating costs, and the necessary investments to maintain and improve the current facility. The university also wanted to align our athletic offerings more closely with other similar nationally-ranked universities of our size.”
College Hockey America tweeted its sadness over the decision and its impact to the student-athletes & staff, but made no statement indicating the effects to the conference.
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