U Sports changes rule, removing 1-year wait for former pro hockey players

U Sports will allow incoming student-athletes who have played professional hockey to participate immediately in men's hockey without a waiting period.

The change starts with the 2025-26 season, U Sports announced Tuesday.

The previous rule required former pro players to wait 365 days before becoming eligible to play university men's hockey.

In addition, any professional participation before August 15 of the year a player turns 22 will not count toward their U SPORTS eligibility.

A roster deadline rule has not changed, however.

A player who plays outside of U Sports after Jan. 10, either professionally or as an amateur, can't join a university team in that season.