It's happened. The NCAA has given its okay for Hockey East to experiment with the 50-minute game (2 25-minute periods), and it appears that this will be done in Hockey East league games in 1990-91. Of course, I'm against this, but I'd like to know just what other people think about the idea. I may at least write a letter to the HE brass expressing my opinion and reasons why I feel the change isn't good. Also, results of an informal poll would be good to pass on, whether or not they agree with me. So, I'm asking you to reply to the following questions: 1) Do you think the change by Hockey East from three 20-minute periods to two 25-minute periods is a good one? Why or why not? 2) Do you think your perception of Hockey East or the teams in the league will change? If yes, for better or for worse? Why? 3) Should HE teams receive less consideration for an NCAA berth than non-HE teams, given all other things to be equal, because their league games are shorter? Please reply to this, even if you believe the change was a positive one - and state why. I might like to include some of the comments in any propaganda I send the league, so if you would not like me to use your comments, please tell me, or if it's OK but you want to remain anonymous. Please send replies to "[log in to unmask]" or try "[log in to unmask]" if that doesn't work. I don't want to clog up the list with replies. I will summarize what I get to the list. Thanks for your time. Oh yes, the change is scheduled to be evaluated after the season and a decision is to be made whether or not to continue (and possibly whether or not to implement the new format across the board). I think it would be silly to go to 50-minute games for one year, then back to normal. You may disagree, however, so please let me know. - mike