Wayne State's hockey program will take its baby steps this fall thanks to action by the Board of Governors Friday, July 24.

The move heeds a recommendation from a blue-ribbon committee on athletics convened by the university last spring. It allows the department of athletics to lay the groundwork for both men's and women's hockey by seeking coaches, allowing them to recruit, buying team equipment and arranging ice time, among other activities.

The programs will be phased in over a three-year period, said William Markus, vice president for student affairs, adding that the plan calls for WSU to be eligible for NCAA Division I membership at the end of that time.

"We think that having such a program will get us high visibility, will help with our image and will increase the sense of pride of all members of our campus community and alumni," Markus said.

Total cost of first-year activities to establish the hockey programs is approximately $912,000.

Recurring expenses of ice rental and transportation costs are expected to add another $648,000 to the annual costs and bring the total base budget to about $1,560,000. A one-time, $125,000 expense for conference entry fees will be needed in the second year of the start-up.

BOG member Edgar Scribner said while some members of the academic community may see the launching of hockey as cause to wonder if there is something better the university could be doing with its funds, he believes the programs will benefit the entire university in years to come.

"The board has been assured that over time this will enhance our ability to meet academic needs," agreed board member Annetta Miller.

President Irvin Reid pointed out that the board's action covers only the hockey portion of the blue-ribbon committee's recommendations for upgrading the university's athletic program. Other WSU sports are being tracked with an eye toward enhancement and preparation for a transition to Division I; separate recommendations to the board will be necessary before any other transitions take place, Reid said.