Date of Defense

4-29-2026

Date of Graduation

5-2026

Department

Human Performance and Health Education

First Advisor

James Lewis

Second Advisor

Deborah Droppers

Abstract

This study evaluates the feasibility and strategic value of implementing a varsity women’s ice hockey program at Western Michigan University (WMU). As women’s ice hockey continues to experience significant growth at the youth, high school, and collegiate levels, disparities in participation opportunities persist, particularly within institutions that sponsor men’s hockey but not women’s programs. This research argues that WMU is well-positioned to address this gap by establishing a women’s varsity ice hockey team that aligns with institutional goals, gender-equity standards, and national participation trends.

A qualitative case study approach was used to assess feasibility through three primary areas: institutional comparison, gender-equity implications, and operational achievability. WMU was compared to a peer institution, the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD), which sponsors both men’s and women’s varsity hockey. Publicly available data sources, including NCAA reports, Equity in Athletics Disclosure Act (EADA) data, and institutional records, were analyzed to evaluate differences in program structure, resource allocation, and participation opportunities. Additionally, national participation trends and existing literature on Title IX and women’s athletics were used to contextualize the findings.

The analysis reveals that WMU shares key characteristics with institutions that successfully support women’s hockey programs, including similar enrollment size, Division I athletic status, and a strong hockey culture. The primary difference lies in sport sponsorship rather than institutional capacity. From a gender-equity perspective, adding a women’s hockey team would significantly enhance participation proportionality and strengthen WMU’s alignment with Title IX expectations. With typical roster sizes ranging from 20 to 26 athletes, the program would provide meaningful expansion of opportunities for female student-athletes.

Feasibility is further supported by the planned construction of a new multi-purpose event center in Kalamazoo, scheduled to open in 2027, which eliminates a major barrier related to facility availability. While financial considerations such as staffing, travel, and equipment remain important, these costs are comparable to those managed by similar institutions and can be addressed through phased implementation strategies. Additionally, continued growth in women’s hockey participation suggests a sustainable recruiting pipeline.

Overall, the findings demonstrate that establishing a women’s varsity ice hockey program at WMU is both achievable and strategically justified. The proposed program would advance gender equity, enhance institutional identity, and position WMU to participate in the continued expansion of women’s collegiate athletics. This study provides evidence-based recommendations to guide implementation and contributes to broader discussions on equity and program development in collegiate sports.

Access Setting

Honors Thesis-Open Access

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