Future of men's hockey squad at University of British Columbia in question | iNFOnews | Thompson-Okanagan's News Source
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Future of men's hockey squad at University of British Columbia in question

VANCOUVER - The future of the University of British Columbia's varsity men's hockey team remains in doubt after it didn't pass the first stage of a controversial review process.

On Tuesday, the school announced 16 of the current 29 teams will play next season but men's hockey wasn't among those approved.

The fate of the 13 other teams will be decided at the end of February.

Teams receiving a passing grade include: women's ice hockey and women's field hockey, men's and women's basketball, men's football, men's rugby and women's volleyball.

The university's sport review advisory team is in the midst of examining the athletics department and determining which teams should stay at the varsity level.

Varsity teams are being graded on a number of criteria set out by the university, including success in competition, coaching strength, history, alumni support and even attendance, which is traditionally low for most sports on campus.

The review process has generated strong opposition from some alumni and current donors with many concerned some teams are being unfairly targeted for their high cost and lack of recent success.

Teams slated to lose varsity status will have a chance to appeal and will also be given an opportunity to figure out alternate funding arrangements.

News from © The Canadian Press, 2014
The Canadian Press

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