Men's and Women's Ice Hockey Set to Join MASCAC as Affiliate Member
WESTFIELD, Mass. – The University of Saint Joseph (USJ) ice hockey programs have found their conference home, as USJ has been accepted as an affiliate member of the Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference (MASCAC) for men's and women's ice hockey, beginning with the 2027–28 season. The announcement was made Friday afternoon by the MASCAC Council of Presidents and Commissioner Angela Baumann.
USJ announced the launch of its men's and women's ice hockey programs—its 15th and 16th varsity sport offerings—on October 14, and both programs are set to begin their inaugural seasons in fall 2026.
"We are excited to welcome the University of Saint Joseph to the MASCAC as an affiliate member for men's and women's ice hockey," said Commissioner Baumann. "Their participation will help expand the MASCAC ice hockey leagues with strong regional competition. This partnership will broaden our student-athletes' experience and further solidify the MASCAC brand."
With the addition of Saint Joseph, the MASCAC will feature nine men's ice hockey programs, while women's ice hockey will expand to eight teams with the addition of Fitchburg State University for the 2027–28 season.
"We are thrilled to join the MASCAC and elevate our men's and women's ice hockey programs within such a competitive and well-respected conference," said Associate Vice President of Athletics and Recreation Amanda Devitt. "This is an exciting step forward for USJ Athletics and our student-athletes, opening new opportunities for growth and competition. We thank the conference office and athletic directors for their support throughout this process."
What Others Are Saying
Dr. Linda Thompson, president of Westfield State University and a member of the NCAA Division III President's Advisory Group:
"We are pleased to welcome the University of Saint Joseph to the MASCAC for hockey. As a comprehensive university offering both liberal arts and professional education to a diverse student population, USJ is a strong academic peer. The institution fits well within the league's geographic footprint, and as it has expanded its athletic programs, USJ has become a familiar and frequent competitor for many MASCAC teams."
University of Saint Joseph President Dr. Rhona Free:
"The MASCAC represents an exceptional group of institutions that value both academic rigor and athletic achievement. We are proud that the University of Saint Joseph men's and women's ice hockey teams will compete in a conference that reflects our values and high standards."
About the MASCAC
The Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference, the nation's oldest Division III men's and women's playing conference, has a rich tradition of competitive success while celebrating excellence in the classroom. MASCAC member schools include Anna Maria College, Bridgewater State University, Fitchburg State University, Framingham State University, MCLA, Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Salem State University, Westfield State University, and Worcester State University.
The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and Plymouth State University are affiliate members in football. Springfield College joined as a men's golf affiliate in 2019, while Marymount University and Marywood University joined in 2024. Anna Maria College and Rivier University joined as women's ice hockey affiliates in 2024, and Dean College joined as a football affiliate in 2025.
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