The American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) began as a men's collegiate hockey league in 1991, and quickly grew to a league of over 150 teams in three men's divisions. A Women's Division was added in 2000, and currently boasts five divisions (two women's now) with over 300 teams from across the United States. ACHA teams are non-varsity club teams without NCAA sanction; they offer no scholarships and typically receive far less university funding than is sufficient to cover expenses.
The Pennsylvania National Letter of Intent (CLI) is a legal binding agreement between a prospective ice hockey player and the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACH) team they intend to join. The CLI is a crucial document that solidifies a player's commitment to their chosen ACH team and ensures their eligibility to play college ice hockey in Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania CLI guarantees that the player will enroll in a designated college or university and participate in the hockey program affiliated with the ACH. By signing the CLI, the player agrees to adhere to the rules and regulations set by both the ACH and their chosen educational institution. The Pennsylvania CLI serves as a commitment letter, securing the player's place on the ACH team roster and preventing other teams from recruiting them. This agreement provides certainty for both the player and the ACH team, allowing them to plan and prepare for the upcoming season. There are different types of the Pennsylvania CLI that players can sign, depending on their eligibility status and desired educational institution. Some common types include: 1. National Letter of Intent for Division I: This type of CLI is for players who have been recruited by NCAA Division I ice hockey programs in Pennsylvania. Division I programs often offer scholarships to athletes, making this CLI a significant commitment for players seeking financial assistance. 2. National Letter of Intent for Division II: Similar to Division I, Division II are for players recruited by NCAA Division II hockey teams in Pennsylvania. While scholarships may be less prevalent at this level, players still commit to their chosen institution and their ice hockey program. 3. National Letter of Intent for Division III: Division III are for players who intend to join NCAA Division III ice hockey teams in Pennsylvania. Division III programs do not offer athletic scholarships but focus on a well-rounded college experience that emphasizes academics and sportsmanship. 4. Letter of Intent for ACH Teams: In addition to the NCAA, the ACH also offers opportunities for ice hockey players in Pennsylvania. Players can sign a unique CLI to commit to an ACH team affiliated with their chosen college or university. These CLI's are equally binding and secure a player's place within their ACH program. In summary, the Pennsylvania National Letter of Intent — American Collegiate Hockey Association is a vital document that signifies a player's commitment to their chosen ACH team and educational institution. This agreement ensures a player's eligibility and provides certainty for both the player and the ACH team as they prepare for the upcoming ice hockey season.
