Central STL News

Maryville University is advancing its effort to elevate its men’s hockey program to NCAA Division I, with support from the St. Louis Blues and the National Hockey League. The university has reached $2.2 million of its $5.5 million fundraising goal, aiming to complete the campaign by the end of the year.

John Hogan, director of hockey at Maryville University, said, “This campaign is about more than just facilities or competition. It’s about building a vibrant, student-focused community where athletes can thrive, fans can unite, and Maryville can compete at the highest level. Elevating to Division I hockey is a natural next step for Maryville, and it’s one we can only achieve together.”

The fundraising initiative will fund significant upgrades to the Maryville University Hockey Center in Chesterfield. Planned improvements include an expansion adding over 12,000 square feet of space designed for Division I standards and increasing seating capacity to 2,000. Construction is scheduled to begin in Spring 2026 if the financial target is met, with completion aimed for the start of the 2027-2028 season.

Chris Zimmerman, St. Louis Blues President and CEO of Business Operations, expressed support for Maryville’s plans: “The St. Louis Blues are proud to support Maryville University in its commitment to providing student-athletes and the community with top-tier facilities and opportunities to compete at the highest level. Maryville’s initiative to elevate its hockey program to D1 status is a testament to its dedication to student-athletes and the broader St. Louis hockey community. The Blues stand behind efforts that foster a love for the game, create more opportunities for young athletes, and solidify St. Louis as a premier hockey city.”

Steve Chapman, Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer/Chief Marketing Officer of the Blues added: “Maryville University's commitment to advancing hockey in our region aligns with the Blues’ mission to grow the game and provide safe, high-quality facilities for players at every level,” he said. “Strengthening hockey at the collegiate level benefits the entire St. Louis community. We’re excited to see the impact this will have for years to come.”

Kevin Westgarth from NHL Hockey Development & Strategic Collaboration commented on regional growth: “The growth of hockey in St. Louis has been nothing short of extraordinary—propelled by the Blues’ unforgettable Stanley Cup run and the emergence of hometown stars like Pat Maroon, Clayton Keller, and the Tkachuk brothers, all who have, and have had, a big impact on the NHL in recent years,” he said. “Our partnership with Maryville University and the subsequent feasibility study underscored a strong and growing appetite for the game throughout the region. Now, pursuing Maryville Saints varsity hockey is the next step in strengthening our sport here in the heartland of hockey.”

Maryville’s upcoming season starts September 17 against McKendree University; their home opener follows on September 19 against Midland University.

For more information or ways to contribute toward their campaign goal, interested parties are encouraged to contact John Hogan or Kate Whiting at Maryville University.