Courtesy New England Hockey Conference

MARSHFIELD, Ma. – Hobart College has been accepted as a member of the New England Hockey Conference (NEHC) effective for the 2017-18 season. Hobart will join Babson College, Castleton University, University of Massachusetts Boston, New England College, Norwich University, Skidmore College and University of Southern Maine to bring the men’s division to eight members next season.

“On behalf of the NEHC, I am excited to welcome Hobart to the league next season. Their institution aligns philosophically with our current membership and their commitment to and strength of their men’s hockey program will make the league stronger,” said NEHC Commissioner Katie Boldvich. “I’d like to thank Hobart Athletic Director, Mike Hanna, and the league Athletic Directors for their leadership and vision in adding the Statesmen to the NEHC.”

Hobart brings another storied hockey program to the ranks of the NEHC. Competing since the 1978-79 season the Statesmen have appeared in six NCAA tournaments, advancing to the semifinals twice. They have also won four conference titles, dating back to the 2003-04 season.

“Joining the NEHC is an exciting opportunity for Hobart hockey and we are grateful for the invitation,” said Hobart Director of Athletics Mike Hanna. “The footprint of the conference meshes well with our alumni base and New England is one of the Colleges’ most important recruiting regions. Joining the NEHC is a strong step forward for Hobart Athletics and our hockey program.”

Hobart currently competes in the ECAC West Hockey league where they are 11-2-3 overall. The Statesmen are currently ranked #6/7 in the D3Hockey and USCHO polls respectively. A league schedule will be finalized in the coming days. For more information on the NEHC visit www.nehockeyconference.com or follow the league on Twitter @NEHockeyConf.