In a meeting last week with the team's coaching staff, the Ice Cat Hockey Board (the governing board for the team) announced that they have been told by Brigham Young University that they would not renew the contract allowing the team to be affiliated with the school. The Board issued the following statement to the public:

The Board of Directors of BYU Hockey (IceCat Hockey, Inc.) is deeply appreciative of the relationship that we have had with Brigham Young University for nearly fifteen years.  We understand that the relationship has been unique for the University and has entailed a number of special accommodations, including a yearly contract renewal between the team and the University. Unfortunately, we have been recently informed that the University has decided to cease this contractual relationship following the conclusion of the 2021-2022 hockey season. 

We appreciate the University’s willingness to allow us to fully complete the upcoming season, as well as the advanced notice that has been provided. However, we are deeply saddened by this decision and how it will negatively affect so many at the University. 

The Board of Directors consists of past players (Alumni), past coaches and the parents of future players, all of whose lives will be significantly impacted by the University’s decisions. So many students will be affected including current players, past players and numerous future students that have dreams of playing hockey for BYU.  Beyond just those that play hockey, this change will affect the thousands of students that attend each game.  Those experiences will be lost as part of the unique student experience of attending Brigham Young University.

               The IceCat Hockey Board is currently working with the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) to determine a possible path forward without the official recognition of the team by the University. 

We realize, of course, that the loss of formal recognition by the University will break many hearts. However, in the late 90s and the early 2000s the hockey team operated as IceCat Hockey and was able to provide many students, parents, and fans an opportunity to create and participate in a unique collegiate-level hockey program and culture.

We are currently seeking ways to keep the team operational as happened during that time. Further information will be provided as these efforts develop and the future possibilities for the team become more clear. Whatever the future holds for this team, we do hope that all involved – players, coaches, staff, fans, and parents alike – will remain positive and hopeful, always remembering and upholding the spiritually firm foundation and legacy of honor this team has embodied for so many years.

Sincerely,

IceCat Hockey Inc. Board

While there appears to be little room for discussion with the University, the team is hopeful that with the support of our fans and friends on campus, in the community, in the ACHA, and everyone who wants to see the incredible sport of hockey continue to grow, BYU might be willing to work with the team to continue as ambassadors for Brigham Young University.