Take a look back at the Independent NCAA Division I teams' 2025-26 Seasons and the future of each program
Much of the media attention in NCAA Hockey is focused on big conferences such as the NCHC or Hockey East, with Independent Programs not receiving much of a spotlight. However, with the conclusion of the inaugural United Collegiate Hockey Cup (UCHC) and the 2025-26 seasons of these Independent Programs, it was past due to show some love to these five schools. I break them down in alphabetical order.
University of Alaska-Anchorage Seawolves, 5-27-1. Fifth place at UCHC
The Seawolves had a bit of a rough season, but there were certainly bright spots throughout the campaign. The biggest victory of the year came on Halloween as Anchorage took down the No. 6 ranked Denver Pioneers 4-3 in overtime. Despite the disappointing season, there is hope for the future in Anchorage. 13 freshman will join the roster for 2026-27 according to College Hockey Inc's commitment tracker, meaning at least half their 26 roster spots will be new players. Next season will be an exciting time for the Seawolves.
University of Alaska-Fairbanks Nanooks, 15-15-3. UCHC Champions
Fairbanks was the undisputed champion of Independent NCAA Hockey in the regular and postseasons. While a .500 record looks "average," the competition they beat was anything but. The Nanooks beat Quinnipiac twice and won on the road against Providence. Many of their losses were one goal margins before empty net tallies showing resilience and determination to hang in games against much more skilled opponents. Fairbanks capped off their season with an overtime win last night against Lindenwood to claim the inaugural United Collegiate Hockey Cup. The Nanooks are a sneaky and scrappy team that recruits well. I expect Fairbanks to use its proximity to Canada to target more WHL and BCHL players, greatly improving the program.
Lindenwood University Lions, 15-15-0. Second place at UCHC.
The Lions had a very respectable season, beating the eventual UCHC champions Nanooks once on Jan. 24 in Fairbanks, before coming up a goal short in overtime of the UCHC Championship. Like Anchorage, Lindenwood beat No. 6 Denver once, just two weeks prior to the Seawolves' victory. What is most significant about 2025-26 is that the Lions did so well with only two seniors on their roster, and their two leading scorers were underclassmen. Lindenwood's youth has gotten them very far early in the program's history. Next year's Lions team has a good chance of securing an at-large NCAA Tournament Bid next season if they build upon their progress at the UCHC.
Long Island University Sharks, 14-18-1. Third place at UCHC
Long Island had an up and down year. They held their own against some of the top teams in the country, taking Penn State and New Hampshire to overtime before splitting the weekend against the University of Minnesota. The biggest question for me regarding the Sharks is nightly consistency. There were certain series, specifically against Penn State and Minnesota where Long Island looked like two completely different teams between Friday and Saturday. That is something that the Sharks will look to rectify with a high-powered offensive freshman class, many of which I have personally seen play. If the newcomers integrate with the offensive style of play, Long Island could take a step forward next year.
Stonehill College Skyhawks, 11-22-3. Fourth Place at UCHC
To say I am impressed with Stonehill's progression in just their third year of Division I play would be a large understatement. After winning just two games in 2023-24, the Skyhawks hired veteran coach David Berard to lead their program. Since then they have increased their victories more than fivefold. Yes an 11-22-3 season is not numerically outstanding but the trajectory of Stonehill from two years ago to today is what makes me optimistic. Coach Berard has done a fine job acquiring players out of the transfer portal, while being methodical in his recruiting process. The Skyhawks most recently received a commitment from Nikita Ivashchenko, one of the BCHL's top offensive players as well as standout OHL goaltender Mason Vaccari. Add in a brand new rink under development, and Stonehill is well on its way to success.