Colorado Eagles to Join East Coast Hockey League

It has been a ton of fun watching the hometown Colorado Eagles dominate the Central Hockey League (CHL) over the first eight seasons of existence, but now it’s time for bigger and better things. The Eagles announced Tuesday that they will be leaving the CHL to join the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL).

The ECHL is one of two nationwide minor pro hockey leagues (the American Hockey League being the other) recognized by the collective bargaining agreement between the National Hockey League and the NHLPA (players’ association), making it a strong pipeline for NHL talent. Entering its 24th season, the ECHL is home to 20 teams in 16 different states, spanning every corner of the United States.

Everything else Eagles will stay the same, including their name, logo, and colors.

From Coloradoeagles.com:

“We’ve enjoyed our time and many successes in the Central Hockey League. In fact, they’re the impetus that’s allowed us to be granted a spot in the ECHL,” said Eagles President Chris Stewart. “The Central Hockey League has helped us form the strong foundation that is allowing us to take this next step as an organization.

“With that being said, this move is something we believe we’re ready to make as an organization,” continued Stewart. “We’re energized by the challenges that the ECHL will present, and are confident we’ll be able to continue to be successful at the higher level. As our slogan for next season states (New League, Same Tradition), this is a new league, but we’ll be carrying over our same strong tradition.

“It’s certainly an exciting move for our entire organization and should be an exciting move for our incredible fan base as well. This move puts us on the map nationally. Our fans can now follow us to cities like Las Vegas, Nev., Anchorage, Alaska and throughout Southern California, and we’ll be employing players that will soon become some of the best in the world. That’s exciting!”

Said Eagles CEO Martin Lind, “This move will only bring bigger and better things to our fans, corporate partners and the Northern Colorado community as a whole. Thanks to all of them, and the support of our ownership group, the Colorado Eagles’ business model has proven to be unequivocally successful at the CHL level. We can’t wait to try and match that success in the ECHL, and I have all the confidence in the world that the Northern Colorado community will continue to help us do so.”

The ECHL season will begin mid-October, with the Eagles first home game being on October 21st.