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.
Puerto Rico National Letter of Intent — American Collegiate Hockey Association is a legal document that signifies a student-athlete's commitment to playing ice hockey at a college or university in Puerto Rico. The letter of intent is a binding agreement between the student-athlete and the institution, outlining the terms and conditions of the athlete's enrollment as well as the scholarship or financial aid package offered by the school. In Puerto Rico, the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACH) governs collegiate ice hockey programs. The ACH is an organization that promotes and develops ice hockey at the collegiate level in the United States and Puerto Rico. It provides a platform for student-athletes to compete in hockey while pursuing their academic goals. The Puerto Rico National Letter of Intent is divided into various types based on the level of competition and commitment required, including: 1. Division I: This is the highest level of competition within the ACH and requires a significant commitment from the student-athlete. Division I teams are typically highly competitive and participate in regular season games, tournaments, and national championships. Student-athletes who sign the National Letter of Intent for Division I are often eligible for scholarships or financial aid packages provided by the institution. 2. Division II: This level of competition is slightly less intense compared to Division I. Division II teams consist of student-athletes who possess a passion for the game but may have chosen to prioritize their academics. Student-athletes signing the National Letter of Intent for Division II usually have opportunities to compete against other institutions within Puerto Rico but may have fewer regional or national tournament options. 3. Division III: Division III teams focus on balancing academics and athletics. These teams are composed of student-athletes who are equally committed to their academic success and playing ice hockey. The National Letter of Intent for Division III often does not include athletic scholarships, as athletic programs at this level prioritize non-athletic financial aid or merit-based scholarships. 4. Junior Varsity: Some institutions may have a junior varsity program that offers student-athletes an opportunity to compete at a lower level while developing their skills and knowledge of the game. The National Letter of Intent for junior varsity ice hockey in Puerto Rico outlines the athletic and academic expectations, but may not include financial aid or scholarships. It's important for student-athletes to carefully review and understand the terms of the Puerto Rico National Letter of Intent before signing. This binding agreement ensures that both the institution and the athlete commit to their respective responsibilities, fostering a positive collegiate hockey experience while upholding academic standards.