ADRIAN, Mich.—The Adrian College men’s ice hockey program took another giant step forward on Thursday. It was unanimously accepted into the Midwest Collegiate Hockey Association (MCHA).

The MCHA is currently comprised of Finlandia University (Hancock, Mich.), Lawrence University (Appleton, Wis.), Marian College (Fond du Lac, Wis.), Milwaukee School of Engineering (Milwaukee, Wis.), the University of Minnesota at Crookston, and Northland College (Ashland, Wis.).

Minnesota Crookston is an NCAA Division II school, while all other members compete at the Division III level.

Both Adrian College and Concordia University, Wisconsin, which is also starting an ice hockey program next season, will join the league in the fall of 2007, bringing the league’s membership to eight schools.

Ron Fogarty, who was just named the Bulldogs’ head coach this morning, commented on the college’s acceptance into the MCHA.

“We are very excited and accept the opportunity to be a part of a very challenging conference. To see the expansion of ice hockey at the NCAA Division III level is great. The MCHA is showing great initiative, accepting both Adrian and Concordia University this fall.”

Adrian College Athletic Director Mike Duffy made this statement regarding joining the MCHA.

“Other than the day that we dedicate the ice arena, I cannot imagine a bigger day for Adrian College men’s ice hockey. We landed a head coach from a Division I university this morning, and have been accepted into one of the premier college hockey conferences this afternoon.”

MCHA Commissioner Terry Brand spoke of the league’s expansion.

“This was a unanimous decision that was made by our members.”

“The addition of Adrian College to the MCHA is a big step forward and allows us to take greater control of our own destiny.”

“It's always a great day for hockey when new teams are formed,” Brand said. “My hope is that even more schools will now consider hockey in both the Illinois and Michigan area.”

Adrian College recently announced plans and broke ground for the $5.5 million Arrington Ice Arena which will be located on the AC campus and house intercollegiate ice hockey and synchronized skating teams.

The facility will be completed in August 2007 and the Bulldogs will begin competition in the MCHA in the 2007-08 season.

The MCHA was formed in 1998 with current charter members Lawrence, Marian, Milwaukee School of Engineering, and Northland. Finlandia was the most recent addition to the league in 2004.

The MCHA prides itself on promoting sportsmanship and exists to enhance the academic and athletic well-being of its participants.

The NCAA Division III men’s ice hockey schedule begins in mid October. MCHA play begins in November and runs through the conference tournament in late February or early March.