In response to the Alabama-Huntsville comparison to UAF, UAH's situation
is not the same. I know this because UAF has played UAH in the past and their coach Doug Ross said they never officially tried to get in to a Div. I conferencebut dropped to Div.II because of financial restraints and a lack of desire from
their administration to pursue Div. I conference affiliation. They felt their
program could best compete at Div. II.
     UAF on the other hand, has the commitment from their Administration,the
facility and fan support, and the STRONG desire and need to be afull member of
a conference. If UA Anchorage is accepted into the WCHA, then UAF should be accepted into a league as well. This issue needs to be addressed now. Obviously
UAF is a goog distance away from the other leagues, but it is only 45 minutes further away then Anchorage. Also, travel should not be that much of an issue.
Fairbanks would have to make 6-8 road trips a year if they were a full member
of the CCHA as CCHA schools would only have to make ONE (air fare paid) trip
to UAF each year. That seems fair to me.