HOUGHTON — In a press release Friday, Michigan Technological University was named as one of seven schools named who have entered into an agreement with MKurtz Consulting to explore the possiblity of forming a new men’s hockey conference which would begin play in the 2021-22 season.

“The group is comprised of institutions rich in history and tradition with a strong commitment to academic and athletic excellence,” said Morris Kurtz in the release. “They are like-minded in their goals and aspirations for the potential new league with a focus on improving regional alignment and the overall student-athlete experience while building natural rivalries within a more compact geographic footprint.”

The potential new conference, according to the release, is also committed to providing the best possible collegiate hockey experience for its student-athletes, fans, and all stakeholders.

The group of schools joining Michigan Tech are Bemidji State, Bowling Green State, Ferris State, Lake Superior State, Minnesota State-Mankato, and Northern Michigan. As all seven schools are currently part of the Western Collegiate Hockey Association, they have indepentdently submitted formal Letters of Notice to the conference office, which has initiated the withdrawl process “in accordance with WCHA Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws,” according to the release. All seven schools will continue to play in the WCHA during the 2019-20 and the 2020-21 seasons.

The release also states that the group of schools plan to establish an elite hockey conference that would have the highest standards for overall competitiveness and rigorous non-conference scheduling, along with a level of institutional investment that demonstrates significant commitment to their hockey programs and facilities. They would also like to establish relationships with corporate partners and others that create a high degree of visibility and positive media exposure for the league.