I can not speak for the SUNY system, but I do know some things about SUNY-Buffalo that might shed some light on the subject. SUNY-Buffalo is currently in the process of upgrading their athletic programs to Division 1. In 1998 it is expected that they will join the Mid-American Conference. They have shown a willingness to spend the money to hire the right personnel, and to also build the needed facilities to make that jump. Currently their football program is playing at Div. 1-AA. If they jump to Div. 1 hockey would they form their own conference? The Empire Collegiate Hockey Association? (ECHA?) And would the CCHA ask all of them to join the conference! Nathan W.L. Boyle BGSU HOCKEY-L is for discussion of college ice hockey; send information to [log in to unmask], The College Hockey Information List.