2024-2025 ECHC Division Realignment: What You Need to Know

As the 2024-2025 season approaches, the Empire Collegiate Hockey Conference (ECHC) has announced a new division alignment, shaking things up for teams across the league. This realignment reflects the evolving competitive landscape and aims to create a more balanced and exciting season for players and fans alike.

Purple Division (Division I):

- Fairfield University (DI)

- Farmingdale State College (DI)

- Quinnipiac University

- University of Delaware

These 4 teams will continue to compete at the highest level within the ECHC and AAU College Hockey, showcasing some of the best talent at this level of collegiate hockey.

Black Division (Division II):

- Columbia University

- Farmingdale State College

- Fordham University (Moved from Division I)

- Ramapo College of New Jersey

- Sacred Heart University

Fordham University’s move from Division I to Division II is one of the most notable changes this offseason. This shift will allow Fordham to face new challenges while maintaining its competitive edge in a different tier. Columbia University, despite moving down to Division III, will continue to compete in the Black Division, ensuring their rivalries and competitive spirit remain strong.

Silver Division (Division III):

- Fairfield University (DIII)

- Hofstra University

Rutgers University (Moved from Division II)

- Stony Brook University

- Stevens Institute of Technology (New Addition)

- University of New Haven

The Silver Division welcomes Rutgers University, which has moved from Division II to Division III. This realignment allows Rutgers to recalibrate and grow within a different competitive environment. Additionally, Stevens Institute of Technology, the newest addition to the ECHC, will make its debut in the Silver Division, bringing fresh talent and energy to the Conference.

What This Means for the ECHC

This realignment is designed to enhance the competitive balance across all divisions, ensuring that every game is meaningful and intense. Teams including Fordham University and Rutgers University, which have made significant moves, will need to adapt quickly to their new environments, while our newest member, Stevens Institute of Technology, will have the opportunity to establish themselves in the conference.

As we gear up for the new season, fans can expect a fresh dynamic in every division. Whether it's the powerhouse matchups in the Purple Division, the renewed rivalries in the Black Division, or the exciting new additions to the Silver Division, the 2024-2025 ECHC season is set to be one of the most thrilling yet.