Remember when the WCHA name was so powerful and the breakup was catastrophic? Then, the NCHC was created and became so powerful.
Rinse, repeat. The NCHC is nothing without it's programs. The name itself means nothing.
At this point who cares, coaches can cut anyone they want and should. In-season, out of season, see ya. Players quit in season all the time so they save a year of eligibility in FB.
Well yah they were based on an amateur model. At this point the NCAA has no power whatsoever. They are just along for the ride when it comes to D1. The SEC and Big 10 are calling the shots behind the scenes.