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 Ohio National Letter of Intent (CLI) is a binding agreement between a student-athlete and the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACH) member institution in Ohio. This document signifies the student-athlete's commitment to attend the specific institution while participating in intercollegiate hockey programs. The CLI is an essential part of the recruitment process for student-athletes looking to compete at the college level in Ohio. It is a legally binding contract that ensures both the student-athlete and the institution are committed to each other. By signing the CLI, the student-athlete agrees to attend the institution for one academic year and participate solely in the school's hockey program. Furthermore, the Ohio CLI serves as a tool to prevent other ACH member institutions from recruiting the signed student-athlete. It prohibits other schools from initiating contact or recruiting the individual, protecting their commitment to the specific institution. The Ohio CLI carries significant benefits for both student-athletes and institutions. For student-athletes, signing the CLI guarantees a spot on the hockey team and a scholarship, if applicable. It provides security and a sense of belonging, knowing they have a place in the program and the chance to further their athletic career while pursuing their education. For institutions, the Ohio CLI secures talented student-athletes who will contribute to their hockey program's success. It allows them to plan and build a competitive team, ensuring a strong roster for the upcoming seasons. The CLI also enhances the institution's reputation and standing within the ACH, attracting high-level prospects who value the commitment and opportunities it offers. Types of Ohio National Letter of Intent — American Collegiate Hockey Association: 1. Early Signing Period CLI: This type of CLI is signed during the early signing period, typically in November of the student-athlete's senior year of high school. It allows committed athletes to finalize their commitment before their peers and provides them with peace of mind during their final year of high school. 2. Regular Signing Period CLI: The regular signing period CLI is signed in April of the student-athlete's senior year of high school. This allows student-athletes who were not ready to commit early or who needed more time to make their decision to solidify their commitment to the chosen institution. In conclusion, the Ohio National Letter of Intent — American Collegiate Hockey Association is a binding agreement that secures the commitment of student-athletes to an ACH member institution in Ohio. By signing this document, student-athletes guarantee their attendance and participation in intercollegiate hockey programs. The CLI provides security and benefits for both the student-athletes and the institutions involved, allowing them to plan and build successful programs while ensuring a positive collegiate experience.
