We are potentially approaching a milestone moment for major junior hockey. The NCAA Division I Council is considering making a landmark change in eligibility rules that would allow CHL (Canadian Hockey League) players to compete at U.S. colleges. The upcoming vote will allow players who have previously played in any of the CHL leagues—the Western Hockey League (WHL), Ontario Hockey League (OHL), or Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) to retain eligibility for NCAA hockey.

There’s a lot to unravel here as there would be a domino effect that would impact other leagues — including the USHL. Frank is joined by Glenn Hefferan, the President & Commissioner of the USHL, to discuss this potential landmark moment in hockey. 

TIMESTAMPS

7:32 - How would changing the amateur hockey landscape affect the USHL? 

10:05 - How much money do college players make?

13:45 - Will the USHL adapt if the pre-eligibility rules change?

20:24 - What is the NHL’s relationship with the USHL?

22:09 - Why doesn’t the USHL get the same support as the CHL from the NHL?

26:00 - Getting more rinks in more cities in the USA

28:30 - Lucky to grow up near a rink and find hockey ‘by accident’

30:45 - Will we see more co operation between different leagues?

33:40 - Could the USHL come to Canada?

36:20 - How do the possible changes affect the grass roots players, as opposed to top players?

39:30 - How academic rules may affect CHL players coming to the NCAA

41:15 - Will NCAA be changing rules around player agents?

Music Credit: Bahamas - Trick To Happy

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