Michigan Regents Advocate for Varsity Women's Hockey Team Expansion

Author:

Anastasia Petkov

|Published: March 28th, 2024

University of Michigan's Board of Regents spearheads the call for a Division-I women's ice hockey program, addressing the pressing need to bolster women's hockey in the state. Dive into the discussions and hear from key stakeholders as they champion this pivotal initiative!

During the University of Michigan Board of Regents meeting, Regent Denise Ilitch formally proposed the addition of a Division-I women's ice hockey program.

Ilitch emphasized the university's mission to serve the people of Michigan and the demand for varsity women's hockey.

"For me, that would be leaders and best," Ilitch stated. "Part of our mission statement at the University of Michigan says to serve the people of Michigan, and right now, the people of Michigan are not being served. There is a demand for varsity women's hockey at the University of Michigan by the people of Michigan."

Ilitch highlighted players like Kirsten Simms and Cassie Hall, Michigan natives who had to seek opportunities outside the state to pursue their hockey careers.

She underscored the need to provide opportunities for local talent to thrive.

University president Santa Ono has requested a feasibility study to explore the viability of introducing a women's hockey program.

College Hockey Inc. (CHI) is expected to play a key role in conducting the study.

Regent Jordan Acker echoed Ilitch's sentiments, emphasizing the importance of providing opportunities for elite female hockey players within the state.

Acker called for a feasibility study to move forward, highlighting the need to support local talent.

The push for a varsity women's hockey team marks a significant step forward in addressing the longstanding gap in women's hockey opportunities in Michigan.

With the university's commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in sports, the addition of a Division-I women's ice hockey program could herald a new era for women's hockey in the state.