New NCAA rules offer players flexibility: WHL [Video]

National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division one schools have new rules — now welcoming Canadian Hockey League (CHL) players with open arms.

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Until now, CHL players were not allowed to play for U.S. colleges because players were deemed to be professionals due to the monthly stipends they receive.

The change was announced on Nov. 7. People involved in Canadian junior hockey have since confirmed to CTV that dozens of players are leaving their current teams.

Six from the Western Hockey League alone have already committed to head to the NCAA next season.

“We’re pleased that that evolves to a more flexible scenario for players,” says Western Hockey League (WHL) Commissioner Dan Near.

Shawn Belle is the coach of a U-18 team in the Junior Prospects Hockey League. He says this is giving young players more options for their futures in …