HAVERHILL, Mass. - Robert DeGregorio, Commissioner for College Hockey America (CHA), announced today that Penn State University has been officially admitted into the CHA beginning with the 2012-13 season.

“We were very happy to receive Penn State's application to join CHA,” states Commissioner DeGregorio. “And now that we have had an official visit the president, Athletic Director and other administrators on campus we are pleased and excited with the admission of Penn State to College Hockey America effective with the 12-13 season. We know because of their rich academic and athletic tradition they will be a great addition to our league and will help make our league
better.”

“We're excited to join such a competitive conference in College Hockey America,” said Tim Curley, Penn State Director of Athletics. “The CHA showcases elite student-athletes and teams
and we look forward to developing strong in-state and regional rivalries with its members.”

”We're honored and proud to be joining the CHA at this transformational time in our program's history,” said Josh Brandwene, head women's ice hockey coach. “Competing right away against such quality teams is a great opportunity for us to hit the ground running and further accelerate our program's growth and development. It's an exciting time for Penn State Women's Hockey.”

Penn State joins fellow Keystone State members Mercyhurst and Robert Morris as well as Niagara and Syracuse to make-up the five teams in the CHA. Each league member will play four games (two home, two away) against the other league institutions during the 2012-13 season. The Regular Season Champion will host the 2013 College Hockey America Tournament, as all teams will participate in the Championship.