Steelers General Manager Kevin Colbert has stepped down from his position on Robert Morris University’s Board of Trustees following the announcement both the men’s and women’s hockey programs would be dissolved.
First reported by Alexis Davis of the Colonial Sports Network, the university confirmed Colbert’s decision to the Tribune Review.
“We are certainly grateful for the time he served on the board and the substantial support he has given the university over the years.”
Colbert, who has been the Steelers GM for over 20 years, is a big hockey fan.
While no official reason has been given to why Colbert stepped down, it is likely due to the hockey programs being eliminated.
Men’s coach Derek Schooley told The Fan that he was surprised when he learned the programs were ending.
A GoFundMe was started last week in an attempt to try to save the program that was ended due to funding issues.
As of Monday afternoon, over $26,250 have been raised out of a goal of $2 million. Organizers say that they also have pledges that total $350,000 in private donations.
While the donations are ongoing, the university said in a statement to 93.7 The Fan that they looked at that option already.
"Suffice to say we would not have moved forward with this decision had we not first considered whether we could raise sufficient external funds to sustain the program in the long run."
RMU’s hockey program was the only Division I program in the area and was a key part in bringing the NCAA’s Frozen Four to Pittsburgh on two occasions (the latest just this past April).