BCIHL announces withdrawal of Eastern Washington University for 2018/19

The B.C. Intercollegiate Hockey League announced today that the 2018/19 season will include five teams: Selkirk College, Trinity Western University, Simon Fraser University, University of Victoria and Vancouver Island University, following the voluntary withdrawal of Eastern Washington University.

EWU's withdrawal results from a decision to absorb the returning members of the BCIHL team into the school's ACHA Division 2 junior-varsity team and compete against more regional opponents.

The BCIHL accepts the decision and wishes to thank the many players, staff and volunteers who allowed EWU to compete and contribute to our league for the past seven years. Specifically, the BCIHL would like to thank Bill Shaw and Jason Greenwell for their service to the league.

Going forward, the BCIHL will continue to grow the footprint of collegiate hockey in British Columbia. The league's five members have strong support and a proven ability to raise the overall level of competition year after year. Last season featured 15 Major Junior, over 80 Junior A and over 100 Junior B graduates competing in the BCIHL. The 2018/19 season will see the same exciting rivalries, showcase exhibition games, and an influx of new recruits from top junior programs across Canada.

The BCIHL is also exploring expansion opportunities in a number of locations and will continue to work with BC Hockey as well as other universities, colleges and local support groups gauge interest and facilitate new applications.