Probably a good move for Hockey. I wish the old CCHA hadn't been deep sixed, but this is a better fit than Hockey East. Bobda didn't send this to me, but I'm sure he feels this way!
Hey! I am glad you're in. Clearly improves the conference by adding a former CCHA rival and outstanding academic school that has put quality teams on the ice since Jackson became your coach. 7 teams still seems too small. Would like to see no fewer than 8 teams with North Dakota being top on my wish list and UMD, Nebraska Omaha, or one of the smaller Minnesota schools as other options.
Bobda why do you think Illinois doesn't have a hockey program. It would seem like they are a natural to have a program.
Terry, U of I has been mismanaged as badly as their state government. Only way they would be able to field a hockey team is if they were gifted by a deep pockets donor as Penn State was. http://www.collegehockeynews.com/news/2017/04/24_D-I-Hockey-at-Illinois-Still.php
Good article, pretty plainly says it...money. I wonder why there isn't a godfather for Illinois Hockey out there, they certainly must have more than a few very rich alumni and at least a few of them must be Hockey fans. As the article mentioned, the BlackHawks are very successful.