A Unlikely Victory
When the NCAA altered its eligibility criteria in November 2024, the change opened a narrow window for athletes who had already turned professional in major junior leagues.
At Bemidji State University, associate director of athletics for compliance Erin Mykleby seized the opportunity, guiding former WHL standouts Connor McClennon and Hudson Thornton through a meticulous review of compensation, expenses and amateur status.
McClennon, who spent five years in the Western Hockey League before signing with the Chicago Wolves and later enrolling at the University of Alberta, and Thornton, a record‑setting WHL player who joined the Hershey Bears before moving to the University of Saskatchewan, both faced the same hurdle: proving that their prior earnings did not disqualify them from collegiate competition.
Mykleby’s problem‑solving mindset, honed across stints at St. Leo University, New Mexico State and Emporia State, allowed her to break down total compensation into deductible costs such as equipment, travel and training, a strategy that resonated with NCAA reviewers.
The compliance office at Bemidji State is uniquely staffed by a single professional, Erin Mykleby, who coordinates the entire eligibility process, a reality that underscores the resourcefulness required of smaller institutions.
Athletics director Britt Lauritsen, who recruited Mykleby to the university, provided the administrative backing that amplified her efforts, illustrating how leadership support can multiply impact in constrained environments.
Looking Ahead
The successful clearance of McClennon and Thornton has sparked a ripple effect, inspiring other programs to examine similar pathways and to advocate for rule adjustments that recognize the evolving landscape of college sports. As the NCAA continues to refine its eligibility policies, the case of Bemidji State serves as a reminder that innovation often springs from the most unexpected corners, and that strategic compliance can reshape who gets to compete.