Elevate Maryville: Join the Campaign for NCAA Division I Hockey
Maryville University is making significant strides in its efforts to elevate its men's hockey program to NCAA Division I status, with the backing of the St. Louis Blues management and the National Hockey League. The university aims to become the second institution in St. Louis to join the NCAA Division I hockey ranks, highlighting the city's strong hockey community. The campaign focuses on creating a vibrant, student-centered environment where athletes can excel, fans can come together, and Maryville can compete at the highest level.
With a fundraising goal of $5.5 million, Maryville has already raised $2.2 million towards the initiative, which includes substantial upgrades to the Maryville University Hockey Center in Chesterfield. Alumni, fans, and community partners are encouraged to contribute to this historic campaign to support Maryville's transition to Division I hockey. The St. Louis Blues have expressed their support for Maryville's commitment to providing top-tier facilities and opportunities for student-athletes and the broader St. Louis hockey community.
Central to the campaign is the expansion of the Maryville University Hockey Center, which will add over 12,000 square feet of Division I-caliber space and increase seating capacity to 2,000. The redesigned facility aims to enhance the game-day experience for students and the community alike. Construction is scheduled to begin in Spring 2026, with completion targeted for the 2027-2028 hockey season, pending the achievement of the fundraising goal.
Maryville is urging alumni, donors, and hockey enthusiasts to participate in the campaign by making a donation towards the $5.5 million target. Every contribution, regardless of size, plays a crucial role in helping Maryville reach its goal and elevate its hockey program to new heights. The university's commitment to advancing hockey in the region aligns with the Blues' mission to grow the sport and provide quality facilities for players at all levels.
The collaboration between Maryville University and the National Hockey League underscores the growing interest in hockey in the region, fueled by the success of the St. Louis Blues and local NHL stars. The partnership aims to strengthen the sport in St. Louis and create lasting impacts for the community. As the new season approaches, Maryville is gearing up for an exciting lineup of games, starting with a match against McKendree University on September 17, followed by the home opener against Midland University on September 19.
To learn more about the campaign or to contribute, individuals can reach out to John Hogan at [email protected] or Kate Whiting at [email protected]. Join Maryville in its quest to elevate its hockey program and make a lasting impact on the St. Louis hockey community.