Here's what I know on Mercyhurst dropping its hockey program
People within the program were blindsided
Mercyhurst announced Friday morning that it is dropping men’s hockey as part of a broader restructuring at the university.
The news came as a shock to players — and to head coach Tom Peffall, who was set to take over next season for Rick Gotkin following his retirement.
In a statement, Mercyhurst said it “will support all affected student-athletes by honoring athletics scholarships, providing academic advising, and assisting students who choose to pursue opportunities through the NCAA transfer portal.”
Division I women’s hockey will remain unaffected.
What makes this situation more troubling is how the decision was handled.
Just two days earlier, the university released a video as part of its annual Giving Day, soliciting financial support for the hockey program, among other initiatives.
According to a player who requested anonymity, players were encouraged to reach out to family and friends for donations for Giving Day this week. They were then informed of the decision abruptly, without any opportunity for input.
