THE University of Northern Colorado Club Hockey team announced on social media that the team has been suspended until 2026. Allegations are that one to two former members of the team filed complaints against the team for underage drinking, hazing, and a negative culture. These two players are no longer with the UNC Hockey Team.

No players or staff were able to comment on the story due to FERPA restrictions set by the federal governments protections and university policy.

Deanna Herbert, Director of News and Public Relations, shared a statement as far as the university can speak on the matter:

“Allegations of violations of UNC’s Student Code of Conduct by members of UNC’s Club Hockey team were brought to the attention of the university last spring. That resulted in the university launching a months-long investigation to thoroughly and carefully gather information about the allegations. The university’s actions and resolution demonstrate that the safety and welfare of students and the campus community remain our top priority.”

Sources close to the team, but not currently affiliated, disputed that the claims against the team are exaggerated at best.

“The team did not actively encourage or condone underage drinking. No one was pressured to drink during our time around the team”.

There was also accusations of hazing and we asked what that would have constituted. Our sources said the team did not support bullying in any way, but rookies were asked to do more chores around the facility than upperclassmen. The “rookie duties” were described as simple cleaning and preparation tasks such as setting up and taking down equipment, cleaning the locker room, and filling water bottles for games and practices.

Our sources were very shocked that the university decided on a three year ban. They were expecting the worst as if someone was seriously injured.

“It’s disappointing that one person’s words can kill a program that did so much good… community service awards, turning boys into adults, discipline…”

Some of the major concerns for the program outside of the ban is the costs that will incur from cancelled games, owed money to the conference, loss of the BMHC and ACHA memberships and the loss of their locker room to the new NAHL team in town. The Colorado Grit inquired about the Bears locker room and ice times that could be indefensible if UNC upholds the three year ban. With no home locker room and extremely limited ice time it would make hockey operations almost impossible.

Allegedly, a compromise was submitted to UNC that included self-imposed penalties such as no road games and community service. The university denied the compromise.

The allegations and investigation began in February, but the penalty did not get officially sentenced until just days after the add/drop deadline and tuition being dispersed. The team was allegedly told by Stephanie Stephens, Assistant Dean of Students, before summer to continue business as usual until the final decision was made. Throughout the summer they did not receive any communication. During that time UNC recruited players, made travel arrangements, and showed up to Bear Welcome events at the first week of school.

While the investigation details are sealed via FERPA and we cannot verify one claim or the other the handling of this investigation does not benefit the students in any way.

The students who came to school just to be a part of the hockey team are now alienated with a decision of do they attend a school who just took away their passion or do they lose thousands of dollars so that they can go home. Seniors are having their last season of their careers torn away from them with no recourse. Players who are already on the team and are prideful to be a UNC Hockey Bear now have one less part of their identity. If this decision was made in the spring 20-30 students would be able to make a better decision for their finances, athletic career, and mental health.

UNC Hockey has hired a lawyer and intends to fight the ban.

A petition was started in hopes to show the university how much the UNC Bears Hockey program means to the students, spectators, and community.

https://chng.it/YcbcmqZfKY

Gabrielle Reyna started the petition that states:

“As a passionate supporter of the University of Northern Colorado (UNC) Hockey team, I am deeply saddened and outraged by the recent suspension imposed on our beloved team. This petition aims to gather support from fellow students, alumni, community members, and hockey enthusiasts in Greeley, CO to demand the immediate reinstatement of the UNC Club Hockey. 

I have witnessed firsthand how hockey has become an integral part of our community. The UNC Hockey team has been a source of pride for us all – bringing joy and excitement to countless fans throughout the years. The excitement that runs through the stands every hockey game. To having more fans at away games than the opposing team. So much energy that the zamboni driver gets cheered on every single game. However, our team has been unjustly suspended.

It is crucial to acknowledge that mistakes can happen in any sport; however, it is equally important not to let one incident overshadow years of dedication and hard work put forth by these student-athletes. Some where this was their life. Their dreams. Everytime every player skates out onto the ice not only are they repping themselves, and their aspirations, but repping “Once a Bear always a Bear”. Which is bowed as UNC’s mantra. How can this continue to be the schools saying if injustice is being served to those that bring so much life to the school atmosphere. Punishing an entire team for the actions of a few individuals undermines their commitment and sacrifices made both on and off the ice.

The decision to suspend the UNC Hockey team not only affects these talented athletes but also impacts our entire community, students and families. The absence of college hockey at UNC leaves a void in Greeley’s sports culture that cannot be easily filled. It denies current students opportunities for personal growth through athletics and education, while depriving future generations from experiencing this incredible sport at their own university.

To further emphasize why reinstating our hockey program is essential for both UNC and Greeley:

1) Academic Success: Numerous studies have shown that student-athletes often perform better academically than their non-athlete peers due to enhanced time management skills and discipline acquired through sports participation.
(Source: NCAA.org)

2) Economic Impact: College sports generate significant revenue for local businesses surrounding universities. By reinstating the UNC Hockey program, we can attract more visitors to Greeley, boosting our local economy and supporting small businesses.
(Source: Forbes)

3) Community Engagement: College sports foster a sense of community pride and unity. The UNC Hockey team has been a unifying force, bringing together students, alumni, and residents of Greeley for thrilling games that create lasting memories.
(Source: NCAA.org)

By signing this petition, we urge the University of Northern Colorado administration to reconsider their decision and reinstate the UNC Hockey team. Let us not allow one incident to overshadow the countless positive contributions made by these student-athletes both on and off the ice.

Together, we can demonstrate our unwavering support for our hockey program and ensure that future generations have the opportunity to experience the thrill of college hockey at UNC. Sign now to demand justice for our team!

#ReinstateUNCHockey #JusticeForOurTeam