Five years to play, but only 26 roster spots

College hockey players may now have five years of eligibility—but House settlement roster limits leave participating programs with only 26 roster spots.In Episode 2 of the USCHO Weekend Review Offseason series, Ed Trefzger, Jim Connelly and Robert Morris coach Derek Schooley examine how the NCAA’s new age-based eligibility model will affect college hockey.The panel explains why “5-for-5” is an imperfect shorthand, when a player’s five-year clock begins and why the new system may change decisions about junior hockey, college enrollment, redshirts and player development.Also discussed:• The five-year clock beginning at the earlier of initial full-time college enrollment or the NCAA’s age-19 trigger• The important September 1 birthday cutoff• Why sitting out, transferring or taking time away generally does not stop the clock• Transition rules for current players and incoming recruits• Court challenges that have complicated the implementation of the new model• The 26-player roster limit at House-participating Division I men’s hockey programs• The end of traditional sport-specific scholarship limits at participating schools• Temporary roster protection for certain designated student-athletes• How additional eligibility and limited roster space could change recruiting and roster constructionThe group also confronts the ultimate roster-management question: If only one spot remains, do you choose the developmental freshman, the trusted veteran or the elite NHL prospect who may stay for only one season?Find all of our podcasts at USCHO.com/podcasts