Having gone more than two seasons without a win, Lebanon Valley is moving from NCAA Division III to the American Collegiate Hockey Association starting next season.
The school cited travel, costs, missed class time and competitive concerns among reasons for the change.
For the second straight year, the Flying Dutchmen were 0-25 this season, 0-15 in the ECAC West. Head coach Ted Russell resigned on Jan. 20.
Since moving to the ECAC West from the ECAC Northeast starting with the 2004-05 season, Lebanon Valley is 12-135-2.
“The move to the ACHA will give our student-athletes greater opportunity for success academically, socially, and athletically,” Greg Krikorian, Lebanon Valley’s vice president for student affairs, said in a news release. “It will create a stronger student-athlete experience.”
Lebanon Valley, located in Annville, Pa., plays against just one in-state school in Division III. By contrast, the school pointed out in its news release, there are more than 40 ACHA teams in Pennsylvania.
“Men’s ice hockey will continue to be a fully funded and supported program at LVC, including college funding for equipment, travel, and coaching,” athletic director Rick Beard said. “We will continue to compete and practice at Hersheypark Arena.”
