There are many valid reasons behind the Big Ten Conference?s decision to form a six-team men?s hockey league that will start in 2013-14. With traditionally strong programs at Minnesota, Michigan, Michigan State and the University of Wisconsin, the conference should become a hockey power. The name recognition of those schools along with Ohio State and hockey newcomer Penn State could raise the profile of hockey nationally and give it a stronger voice in the NCAA. Finally, it will provide much-needed live programming for the Big Ten Network. Nationally, however, the perception of the conference is a bit different.
Office of Strategic Communication