The Illinois Fighting Illini may not be adding ice hockey to their lineup of varsity sports anytime soon, but it appears long-term planning for that effort is about to get underway.
According to College Hockey News, the NHL will announce the creation of league-sponsored studies to determine the feasibility of adding Division-I hockey at five schools. The University of Illinois will reportedly be the first campus to undergo an examination.
The previously announced Friday press conference at the United Center will feature athletic director Josh Whitman, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, Chicago Blackhawks CEO John McDonough, Buffalo Sabres owner and Penn State Hockey donor Terry Pegula, USA Hockey Executive Director Pat Kelleher, and Players’ Association executive assistant Mathieu Schneider.