NCAA's new eligibility model could reshape PWHL draft prospects

The NCAA will implement a new age-based eligibility system that begins this season, stipulating five years of eligibility starting after a player's 19th birthday. This change may reduce the number of European players entering NCAA programs, as many arrive already older than 19, resulting in fewer years of available eligibility. The impact is significant for the PWHL, particularly concerning the 2027 draft, which may face a smaller pool of prospects due to these changes. The PWHL did not publicly oppose the new regulations, despite the potential risks to its talent pool from the NCAA's revised rules.

• 1:18 PMYahoo Sports — NCAA's New Aged Based Model Could Have Massive Impact On PWHL's Future Prospect Pool