The American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) began as a men's collegiate hockey league in 1991, and quickly grew to a league of over 150 teams in three men's divisions. A Women's Division was added in 2000, and currently boasts five divisions (two women's now) with over 300 teams from across the United States. ACHA teams are non-varsity club teams without NCAA sanction; they offer no scholarships and typically receive far less university funding than is sufficient to cover expenses.
The Hawaii National Letter of Intent (CLI) is an important document used in the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACH) to solidify the commitment between student-athletes and the participating college or university in Hawaii. By signing this binding agreement, student-athletes agree to attend their chosen institution for their collegiate years while participating in the competitive sport of hockey. The CLI serves as a written contract, ensuring that both parties involved uphold certain responsibilities and obligations. It provides a formal commitment from the student-athlete to the Hawaii college or university and ensures that the institution will provide specific athletic financial aid to support the player. The CLI is valid for one academic year and is renewable annually if the student-athlete's academic and athletic performance remains satisfactory. The Hawaii National Letter of Intent is considered a milestone for student-athletes as it signifies their dedication to advancing both academically and athletically. By signing the CLI, individuals affirm their intent to attend the chosen institution and demonstrate a commitment to pursuing their hockey aspirations at the collegiate level. In Hawaii, there are multiple types of National Letters of Intent within the American Collegiate Hockey Association. These variations cater to distinct categories of athletes based on their playing level, experience, and desired collegiate team division. These different types include: 1. Division I CLI: This type of CLI is designed for exceptional student-athletes who possess high-level skills and experience. Division I colleges and universities in Hawaii typically demonstrate a strong commitment to their hockey programs and provide extensive resources and support for players at this competitive level. 2. Division II CLI: The Division II CLI caters to student-athletes who exhibit solid hockey skills and experience but may not meet the criteria for Division I. Colleges and universities offering Division II programs in Hawaii still provide excellent opportunities for athletes to compete at a high level while pursuing their education. 3. Division III CLI: The Division III CLI is suitable for student-athletes who prioritize the academic aspect of their college experience while still participating in hockey. Colleges and universities in Hawaii offering Division III programs emphasize the balance between academics and athletics, encouraging players to excel in both fields. Signing the Hawaii National Letter of Intent within the American Collegiate Hockey Association is a significant step towards realizing a student-athlete's dream of playing competitive hockey at the collegiate level. It signifies their commitment to both their education and the sport, providing a solid foundation for a successful and rewarding college career in Hawaii.
