Centra College

The Central Collegiate Hockey Association (CCHA) stands as a prominent NCAA Division I hockey-only conference, deeply rooted in the rich tradition of collegiate athletics across the Midwestern United States. While its current iteration began thrilling fans in the 2021–22 season, the CCHA proudly recognizes a storied history that stretches back to its original formation in 1971. This conference has been a defining force in college hockey, bringing together institutions committed to high-level competition and fostering intense regional rivalries.

The CCHA's journey began in 1971 with founding members Bowling Green, Ohio, Ohio State, and Saint Louis. Despite an early challenge with two teams withdrawing shortly after its inception, the league demonstrated remarkable resilience, growing steadily with the addition of teams like Lake Superior State and Western Michigan, and the eventual return of Ohio State. This foundational period solidified the CCHA's place as a vital component of the collegiate hockey landscape, establishing a legacy of competitive play and development.

After a significant conference realignment led to its disbandment in 2013, the CCHA's enduring spirit brought about its triumphant revival. Seven schools, seeking a more compact geographic footprint and improved regional alignment, announced in 2020 their intention to form a new CCHA, commencing play in the 2021–22 season. This modern CCHA, which later welcomed St. Thomas and Augustana, continues its mission to provide exceptional NCAA Division I ice hockey, emphasizing regional pride and a vibrant student-athlete experience for its member institutions.