FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. – CCHA Commissioner Tom Anastos today issued the following statement in response to the announcement by the Big Ten Conference that men’s ice hockey will be recommended as an official conference sport beginning in the 2013-14 academic year.

“Today’s announcement by the Big Ten does not come as a surprise as we have been engaged in discussing this topic with Big Ten officials for several months now. We are studying the potential impact of this change and will continue to work closely with our membership and other stakeholders in college hockey to ensure the ongoing long-term success of our league.”

The CCHA just completed its 40th season of play. The conference has produced eight national champions since forming in the 1971-72 season.

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Release by CCHA