The CCHA has used a cluster system the past several years to manage its scheduling. The conference is divided up into three clusters of four teams each. Each team plays the teams in their cluster four times, while playing all other conference teams just two times.

The intial introduction of the clusters didn't take historical rivalries into consideration which, at times depending on the clusters, would limit traditional rivals (such as Michigan and Michigan State) to just two games in a year. In an attempt to preserve these traditional rivalries the CCHA adjusted the cluster system to include rivalry pairs. The teams have been paired up with their main traditional rival and these rivalry pairs will stay together no matter what cluster they are placed in. The CCHA essentially now places rivalry pairs into clusters, not individual teams. The following list shows the CCHA rivalry pairs.

• Alaska - Nebraska-Omaha
• Bowling Green - Notre Dame
• Ferris State - Western Michigan
• Lake Superior - Northern Michigan
• Miami - Ohio State
• Michigan - Michigan State

This seasons clusters are shown in the following table.