The real key as to whether the NCAA will even consider sponsoring a women's
hockey championship is the number of varsity programs competing in the
sport.
 
Under section 18.2.4.1 of the 1996-97 NCAA Manual, "A National Collegiate
Championship or a division championship may be established during the
1994-95 through 1998-99 academic years in a women's sport in which the
Association does not already conduct a championship if at least 40
institutions sponsor the sport."
 
The number is 50 institutions for a men's sport.
 
18.2.4.2.1 adds the provision that "The applicable minimum spnsorship
number must exist for two consecutive academic years in order for a
championship to be established."
 
The way I understand this, it would be possible to establish a single
women's NCAA championship that would cover all divisions once there are 40
programs existing at the NCAA level for two straight years.  I don't know
how many there are now.  (Richard?)
 
However, according to 18.2.1, "A National Collegiate Championship for which
any active member in good standing is eligible may be established by
majority vote of all members present and voting at an annual Convention,
subject to the requirements, standards and conditions regarding the
required number of members sponsoring the sport as prescribed in this
bylaw."
 
So, not only does there have to be the 40 program minimum for two years,
but it would also be necessary to get the NCAA to vote for a championship
at its annual convention.  That looks to be the biggest hurdle once the 40
program minimum is reached.
 
---                                                                   ---
Mike Machnik                   [log in to unmask]            *HMM* 11/13/93
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