The Professional Hockey Players’ Association (PHPA) announced some exciting news this week. After a strike that led to the cancellation of 41 games, players have ratified a new five-year collective bargaining agreement with the ECHL. This deal will last until the end of the 2029-30 season, allowing the North American minor league, which is two tiers below the NHL, to get back on track. Games are set to resume on Tuesday.
PHPA Executive Director Brian Ramsay expressed pride in the players’ unity and professionalism throughout the negotiations. He emphasized that the agreement marks meaningful progress on key issues that matter to the players, and it wouldn’t have been possible without their engagement.
ECHL Commissioner Ryan Crelin shared that the new deal will boost player compensation, improve health and safety standards, and introduce new initiatives tailored to the players’ needs. This growth is also aimed at keeping hockey accessible for local fans and communities.
While specific contract details remain under wraps, before the strike, the ECHL had announced plans to raise player salaries by 20% in the first year. They also offered increased per diems, guaranteed more off days, and promised to limit travel between back-to-back games to 325 miles. Additionally, discussions included raising the salary cap by 19.8%.
Historically, minor leagues like the ECHL have faced ups and downs, especially during crises such as the recent pandemic, which impacted player pay. Recent surveys indicate that minor league players often struggle with low wages and long travel schedules, making this agreement an important step forward.
With 30 teams, the ECHL features 29 teams in the U.S., plus one in Trois-Rivières, Quebec. The negotiations for this agreement had been ongoing since January. As hockey fans gather to watch the games resume, this deal promises a brighter future for players and fans alike. For more on the ECHL and its initiatives, you can visit the ECHL official site.
