The Eastern Hockey League, or EHL, has officially reclassified itself as Tier II. They did so via Press Release on 2/2/2025. Click here to read the press release via the EHL website- EHL Announces Tier II Status
Here are some direct quotes from EHL coaches and owners regarding the new Tier status.
“I am not going to promote the EHL, OJHL, CCHL, NOJHL, NCDC or any other similar league as being the best. This is about living up to standards. It is about running a top tier league office, a commitment to players, professional coaching, personal & athletic growth, first class facilities and training opportunities, well run showcases, development and on top of all, quality, collegiate hockey placement. That is what a league and its individual members must be judged on, the model and path, is for the players and families to decide. That’s the truth too and I feel strongly that the Eastern Hockey League is a leader in all of those things.”– Toby O’Brien HC Rhode Island
“I am beyond excited to enter in the world of tier 2 hockey for our players and our league alike. I’m super excited to take our experience to a whole new level and watch as our development model continues to shine. This is a very exciting time for players and for us we are very excited for the future of the New Jersey 87s. With this announcement, we finally align with what we have always done put our players first.”- Adam Houli- NJ 87s
“Moving up to Tier 2 hockey represents a significant step forward for the EHL, showcasing the dedication, talent, and growth of our players, staff and program. This advancement not only elevates the level of competition but also opens up more opportunities for our athletes to develop and gain exposure, pushing them closer to their ultimate goals in hockey. At the New England Wolves, we are committed to improving year after year, continuously striving to provide our players with the tools and environment they need to succeed both on and off the ice.” Tim Kunes- NE Wolves
“Not only is this a major step for the EHL and going tier 2. But this is also a great step for the EHLp. The EHLp has prided itself on being a legitimate development league and feeder to the EHL. With the elevated status of the EHL now will bring more recognition to the EHLp as a legitimate development/advancement league with the numbers to back it.” – Samuel A. Tafel- Union Thunder EHLP
As spelled out in the announcement, the EHL joins the Tier II ranks in North America. This includes leagues such as the NCDC, NOJHL, OJHL, CCHL, AJHL, SIJHL and many others.
For more information on the EHL visit their website- Eastern Hockey League
By Andrew Trimble
To Purchase Andrews new book, The Hockey Planner, follow this link- The Hockey Planner: A Year by Year Plan to Assist You on Your Hockey Coaching Journey: From Learn to Play to Junior Hockey: Trimble, Andrew: 9781963743395: Amazon.com: Books
