USJ to Launch Men's and Women's Varsity Ice Hockey in Fall 2026
WEST HARTFORD, Conn. — The University of Saint Joseph (USJ) Department of Athletics is proud to announce the addition of men's and women's NCAA Division III varsity ice hockey programs, set to begin competition in fall 2026.
The announcement was made Tuesday morning during a press conference held at the International Skating Center of Connecticut (ISCC) in Simsbury, Connecticut—the newly announced home venue for both programs. USJ has entered a long-term partnership with the rink, which will host practices and games for the Blue Jays beginning next fall.
PRESS CONFERENCE PHOTO GALLERY
This expansion marks a significant milestone in the growth of USJ Athletics, elevating its total sport offerings to 16 varsity programs. It also reflects the University's ongoing commitment to student success, athletic excellence, and community engagement.
"This is an exciting step forward for USJ," said Dr. Rhona Free, president of the University of Saint Joseph. "We're building on the championship success of our men's lacrosse, men's soccer, and men's and women's basketball teams in recent years. Ice hockey is a natural next step in expanding our athletic offerings and continuing to attract students who are driven to succeed both in the classroom and in competition."
The ISCC is a premier facility in New England and a longtime training base for Olympic and elite athletes. As the official home of USJ Ice Hockey, the ISCC will provide USJ student-athletes with a championship-caliber setting to train and compete. This partnership aligns two organizations committed to growing the game at every level—from youth and junior programs to NCAA play—while strengthening the connection between collegiate athletics and Connecticut's vibrant hockey community.
"We are honored to welcome the University of Saint Joseph to the ISCC family," said Kelle Becconsall, Owner and General Manager of the International Skating Center of Connecticut. "Our facility has long been home to elite skaters and hockey players from around the world, and this partnership represents an exciting next chapter in that tradition. We're thrilled to help create a home where USJ Ice Hockey can thrive, inspiring the next generation of athletes and uniting the community in support of both the men's and women's teams."
A national search for head coaches for both programs will begin immediately, with recruitment of student-athletes to follow soon after. Both teams will compete at the NCAA Division III level, and the University will seek conference membership as soon as possible to ensure competitive opportunities and regional alignment.
"We seek student-centered leaders who embrace the values of USJ and who are passionate about recruiting and developing gifted student-athletes," said Amanda Devitt, Associate Vice President for Athletics and Recreation. "This is a wonderful opportunity for talented prospects who desire a world-class education and who want to compete at a high level."
The launch of USJ men's and women's ice hockey will expand opportunities for college hockey in the Greater Hartford area, providing more pathways for student-athletes to pursue their academic and athletic goals.
"This initiative strengthens our ability to recruit students who are passionate about both academics and athletics," said Paul Brower, Vice President for Enrollment Management. "Ice hockey is a natural fit for USJ's mission and growth, and we're excited to welcome future Blue Jays to the ice."
USJ looks forward to welcoming its inaugural hockey teams to the ice in 2026.
ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF SAINT JOSEPH ATHLETICS
The University of Saint Joseph (USJ), located in West Hartford, Connecticut, is an NCAA Division III institution competing in the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC). USJ is committed to the holistic development of its student-athletes through academic excellence, athletic achievement, and community engagement. Learn more at www.usjbluejays.com.
ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL SKATING CENTER OF CONNECTICUT
Located in Simsbury, Connecticut, the International Skating Center of Connecticut (ISCC) opened in 1994 as a premier training destination for Olympic and elite figure skaters. Following a 25,500-square-foot expansion that brought the facility to more than 100,000 square feet, ISCC has evolved into a world-class international sports complex and one of the nation's top destinations for hockey and skating development.
ISCC is home to CT Nor'Easter Junior Hockey (EHL and EHLP), Northern Connecticut Lights and Nor'Easter Youth Hockey, the ISCC Skating Club, multiple adult, high school, and youth hockey teams, as well as elite skaters from around the world. The complex features two full-size rinks (NHL and Olympic), two half-rinks (60' x 85'), a Fitness and Sports Performance Center, Legends Hall, Sk8terZ Café, a pro shop, and dedicated event and meeting spaces. Learn more at www.isccskate.com.