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Golden Jets hockey season may be cancelled due to funding
Jackson Community College's Golden Jets hockey team may cancel its season this year, as costs for the club sport are proving prohibitive to prospective players.
This year, players were required to pay $1,250 for the season, and that amount is too much for some; many of those trying out for the team are full-time college students who also hold jobs. If players didn't have to pay, college officials believe enough students could be assembled for the team by the end of the week. The season is set to begin in a couple of weeks, and if a financial solution isn't found by this Friday, Sept. 23, the American Collegiate Hockey Association will be notified that the Golden Jets are not participating, as well as other schools on the team's schedule. Saving the season, at this point, would require a financial backer who could contribute at least $25,000.
The JCC Golden Jets hockey team is organized by Jackson's Warrior Hockey Club, who contribute resources and manage finances for the team. The College contributes no funds for the hockey team, and scholarships are prohibited for Division III hockey.
"We are deeply disappointed by this news. Having the club hockey team is a boost to JCC's efforts to improve student life opportunities on campus, but the financial picture doesn't look good," said Steve Bloomfield, JCC's assistant dean of student life. "The Warrior Hockey Club are great partners in this club sport, and we appreciate all their efforts."
JCC's Golden Jets hockey team formed three seasons ago and came on strong the second season, making it to the national tournament and finishing seventh in the country. Organizers say that even if this year is cancelled, there is a possibility for next year, though rebuilding will be difficult.
