Get Ready for the Exciting 2025-26 ECHL Season Kickoff
The 2025-26 ECHL season is set to begin, marking the league’s 38th year of operation. The ECHL continues to serve as a vital developmental league for the NHL and AHL. Over 760 players have transitioned to the NHL from the ECHL, demonstrating its role in hockey talent development.
Record Attendance and Community Impact
Last season, ECHL teams drew an average of 4,984 fans per game, the highest in 27 years. A historic total of 5,590,459 fans attended games throughout the regular season and Kelly Cup Playoffs. This achievement marks the third consecutive year of record attendance.
- Average fans per game: 4,984
- Total attendance: 5,590,459
Community Contributions
The ECHL prides itself on providing affordable entertainment. Teams engage with local communities by hosting events for families and businesses. Last season, the league donated a record-breaking $4.6 million to local charities and initiatives.
Teams dedicate countless hours to support schools and hospitals. This commitment strengthens the bond between teams and their communities and highlights the ECHL’s integral role beyond the rink.
Historic Achievements
This past season saw the Trois-Rivières Lions capture their first Kelly Cup title, defeating the Toledo Walleye in a thrilling five-game series. The Finals generated electric atmospheres with standing-room-only crowds.
Spencer Carbery, former coach of the South Carolina Stingrays, received the Jack Adams Award last season. He became the only coach to win Coach of the Year honors in the ECHL, AHL, and NHL.
Continuing Legacy in Hockey
The ECHL remains a significant contributor to the professional hockey landscape. Representation in the Stanley Cup champions continues, with 16 individuals associated with the Florida Panthers in 2025.
- Notable ECHL representatives on the Panthers include:
- Assistant General Manager: Brett Peterson
- Senior VP of Hockey Operations: Paul Krepelka
- Assistant Coach: Jamie Kompon
- Players: Vitek Vanecek, Carter Verhaeghe
The upcoming season promises more excitement and continued growth for the ECHL. The league remains dedicated to fostering hockey talent and enhancing community ties across North America.
Fans can look forward to thrilling on-ice action and memorable experiences during the 2025-26 ECHL season. The ECHL thanks its supporters and encourages everyone to participate in the ongoing journey of exciting hockey.
