Monday, January 14, 2008

A sign of things to come?

What if Canadian kids could represent their local university against American NCAA hockey teams?
Would that change the current dynamic between NCAA hockey and Canadian major-juniors?
Or are most Canadian hockey players more accustomed to and thus largely devoted to the idea of pursuing hockey via major-juniors?
Weigh in below or e-mail me at kate.crandall@gazette.com.

NCAA approves pilot program to allow Canadian schools in D-II

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — NCAA Division II delegates approved a pilot program Monday allowing Canadian schools to apply for membership as soon as June 1, which could lead to Canadians competing in some Division I sports.
The program was approved by a vote of 258-9 on the final day of the NCAA convention and takes effect immediately.
Details still must be worked out, but the concept is designed to allow Canadian schools to enter into the pilot program and explore membership. Schools that meet the June 1 application deadline could start the process of joining Division II as soon as the 2008-2009 academic year.
The program allows the NCAA to study any logistical challenges from competing outside the United States.
The University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University (located in Burnaby, B.C.) are among six Canadian schools that have discussed NCAA membership. Simon Fraser belonged to the NAIA for more than 30 years before its American competitors moved to NCAA’s Division II.
Some Canadian schools want to be able to award full athletic scholarships, which aren’t allowed at Canadian universities.

1 comment:

gmf1a said...

Would not like this to happen - would hurt CC IMO. We should have an advantage recruiting Western Canada.

Now Canadian schools have over-age (by NCAA rules) players. That would need to change as well.