The University of Michigan is poised to potentially launch a Division I women's hockey program, as expressed by university regent Denise Ilitch. Her belief in the availability of sufficient support for this initiative indicates that the decision is more about timing than feasibility. Ilitch stated, "I think that the decision to have a DI team is positive, so that would be a yes," and emphasized the importance of exploring pathways to bring the program to fruition.
Several crucial matters must be addressed before the program's launch, chiefly the decision regarding whether to construct a new facility that would accommodate both the men's and women's teams. This project is estimated to cost at least $300 million. Despite the challenges, Ilitch is optimistic about establishing a temporary home for the women's team at an off-campus arena as a first step toward the ultimate goal.
Ilitch acknowledged the unified desire among supporters, the university board, and the institution’s president for advancing the women's hockey program. She expressed eagerness to find a definitive direction regarding the arena within the next few months, stating the importance of determining if the existing Yost Arena would be modified or if a new arena would be built. Yost Arena, which has served as the men’s program's home for over a century, is considered too small to house both varsity teams.
A feasibility study conducted last year proposed multiple options. The least expensive option was estimated at $50 million for expanding Yost’s footprint. However, there are concerns regarding reduced ice time availability for both campus and community use, as well as the loss of valuable parking spaces. The study also detailed the costs of constructing new facilities, projecting $300 million for a one-rink venue with an 8,000-10,000 seating capacity, and $330 million for a two-rink facility that could enhance revenue potential.
The financial implications of establishing a women's hockey program are significant, with the study forecasting an annual cost of $4.1 million for Michigan. However, it also noted various partnership opportunities, such as arena naming rights, that could help mitigate deficits. Ilitch has consistently advocated for the addition of a women’s program, highlighting the gap in collegiate women’s hockey in the state, particularly since Wayne State disbanded its program in 2011.
Ilitch's comments are timely, coinciding with a national increase in women's hockey registration, which has surged by nearly 43% over the last decade. Additionally, the sport has gained traction with the launch of the six-team Premier Hockey Federation League (PWHL) in the previous year. The city of Detroit is currently hosting its second PWHL neutral site game, and the league is contemplating expansion, possibly adding teams in Detroit for the next season.
New York forward Elle Hartje, a Detroit native, remarked on the absence of a collegiate team in what is often referred to as "Hockeytown," suggesting that establishing a program could inspire young girls in Michigan. Abby Roque, who played college hockey at Wisconsin, echoed this sentiment, stating that a local program would provide a significant opportunity for young players in the community to aspire to collegiate hockey.
Currently, the University of Michigan has a women's club hockey team. Jenna Trubiano, the team's former coach, has transitioned to a strategic advisory role to assist in launching the Division I program. Trubiano emphasized the challenges faced by Michigan-born players who often leave the state for collegiate opportunities, contributing to a talent drain in youth hockey development.
Trubiano pointed out that recent successes of rival Ohio State, which won two of the last three NCAA titles, have highlighted Michigan’s need for a women’s program. This attention may accelerate efforts to establish the DI team and invigorate the local hockey landscape.
