ST. LOUIS - Maryville University announced the launch of NCAA Division I Men's Ice Hockey, a transformative milestone that signals a new era for Saints athletics and positions the University on the national stage and deepens its commitment to athletic and academic excellence. The addition of Division I Men's Ice Hockey represents a bold step forward for Maryville and reflects years of strategic planning, investment, and vision. The program will create new opportunities for high-achieving student-athletes to compete at the highest level of collegiate hockey while earning a Maryville degree. Maryville's existing club hockey programs, which compete within the American Collegiate Hockey Association, will remain unchanged. With this addition, Maryville will now support six hockey teams, underscoring the University's strong and growing hockey culture.
A Natural Fit in One of America's Great Sports Cities
Launching Division I hockey in St. Louis is especially meaningful. Widely recognized as one of the nation's premier sports cities, St. Louis boasts passionate fan bases and a rich athletic tradition, from the historic success of the St. Louis Cardinals to the championship legacy of the St. Louis Blues and the electric atmosphere surrounding St. Louis City SC. Maryville's move into NCAA Division I hockey strengthens its connection to that vibrant sports community and provides student-athletes the opportunity to compete in a city that understands and celebrates the game.
Facility Upgrades Fully Funded Through Philanthropy
To support the launch, Maryville has secured full philanthropic funding for significant facility upgrades designed to meet Division I standards and enhance the student-athlete experience. These improvements will elevate training, competition, and fan engagement, ensuring the program is positioned for immediate and long-term success.
"This is a historic moment for our university," said Dr. Dan Shipp, President of Maryville University. "Launching NCAA Division I men's hockey reflects our continued commitment to academic and athletic excellence, and our belief in creating elite level competitive opportunities for student-athletes who want to achieve at the highest level – right here in St. Louis. Get ready D1 hockey, here come the Saints!"
Hockey is one of the few collegiate sports where emerging programs can quickly compete against nationally recognized institutions, providing early national exposure alongside universities such as University of Michigan, Yale University, Arizona State University, and Penn State University.
"This investment reflects belief. Belief in Maryville's future, belief in student-athletes, and belief in what Division I hockey can mean for this community," said Mike Gatrell, Chief Growth & Revenue Officer of Vantage Credit Union, whose leadership gift helped fully fund the facility upgrades. "Vantage has a legacy in education, and we look forward to creating a lasting impact across our region by supporting this great local university."
For current and future players, the announcement signals momentum and opportunity.
"This is such an amazing opportunity." said Sid McNeil, Maryville hockey player. "I'm very thankful to everyone that made this possible, especially the university and hockey program. And very excited for the future to build something special here at Maryville"
Maryville's Division I Men's Ice Hockey team will have its inaugural season during the 27/28 academic year. John Hogan has been appointed Assistant Athletic Director of Hockey and NCAA Division I Head Coach, and this fall, 2026, will field a D1 transition/hybrid team for the 26-27 season playing roughly 20 NCAA D1 games. Additional details regarding conference affiliation, schedule, recruiting, and facility enhancements will be announced in the coming months.
This milestone reinforces Maryville University's commitment to preparing students for success — in the classroom, in competition, and contributing to St. Louis' sports legacy.
About Maryville University
Founded in 1872, Maryville University is a nationally recognized private institution committed to innovative education, student success, and community engagement. Maryville competes in NCAA Division II athletics and continues to expand opportunities for students to excel academically and athletically.
