We have already started to see the impact of the new regulations in the NCAA, as several players have returned home to rejoin their CHL teams in recent days. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg, says one of the most experienced coaches in American college hockey.
The name Bob Motzko needs no introduction south of the border. The 63-year-old man has been in the world of hockey in the United States for almost 40 years.
Pilot of the Golden Gophers of the University of Minnesota, one of the most prestigious programs in the NCAA, he is currently in his 26e year as head coach in the circuit.
In short, he has experienced changes during his career. Ones as big as this one? Probably not.
“I think we will have to wait between five and ten years before we have a real understanding of everything that entails,” he told the Journallast week, when we met him in his office at 3M Arena in Mariucci, the home of the Gophers.
University of Minnesota Gophers coach Bob Motzko.
Photo provided by Minnesota Athletics
Because while questions remain unanswered in the CHL, that’s just as true for men’s hockey in the NCAA.
The next few years could bring a real tug of war between CHL and NCAA programs for the rights of some of the best players.
“I hope there is a world where everyone gets along and works together,” he adds with a smile. I think it can happen and I’ve already had discussions with CHL coaches and general managers. They understand our vision too. Nobody wants to lose players, as much as they do us.
An inevitable struggle
Preaching for his parish, Motzko believes that a competition between the two circuits will however be inevitable.
“If I put on my parenting hat, I would be aware that the option we are offering is attractive. I don’t want to say we’re better, but we’re doing a great job. I think many parents will see the benefits of going the American college route. Now, where there will be a struggle, is at what age a young person wants to start this adventure. Will it be 18 or 20? Are we going to get along [avec les équipes de la LCH] on an in-between age at 19?
Good for NCAA expansion
The coach who led the U.S. junior national team in 2017 and 2018 also sees a lot of long-term positives for the NCAA, which he believes will benefit from bringing in more players from Canada and even Europe.
“My biggest wish as a coach who has been around for a while is that bringing in more players leads to new programs at the biggest universities. We must not hide it, we generate profits for a university. The NHL has grown significantly in the United States in recent years and the NCAA has not been able to keep up. I hope it can start soon.”
