ECHL Cancels Remainder of 2019-20 Season

PRINCETON, N.J. – On Saturday, the ECHL Board of Governors approved the cancellation of the remainder of the 2019-20 Season.   

A statement from ECHL Commissioner Ryan Crelin:

“The decision by the ECHL to cancel the remainder of the 2019-20 Season does not come lightly, as this is an emotional time for our Players, Coaches, Member Teams, Fans and Staff.   At this point in the Season, there has been immense dedication and countless hours committed in moving towards what is traditionally the most exciting part of the hockey year.  

“With that said however, as each passing day raises additional concerns for the safety of those in the ECHL community and as we take precautionary measures in conjunction with our local authorities across the continent to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, it has become apparent that this is the prudent decision.  Our game and our product are based on our Fans and their ability to cheer on their favorite ECHL team and Players at one of our many facilities around the continent.  Without that social environment and game atmosphere, the ECHL simply isn’t the same.

“On behalf of the ECHL and our Board of Governors, we appreciate the Professional Hockey Players’ Association for their assistance during this unprecedented time and working as partners in hockey to reach this decision for the best interest of the ECHL and its Players.  This decision allows our Players the opportunity to return to their homes and removes the uncertainty that currently exists.

“While we are hopeful that this period ceases and an opportunity to return to normalcy for the hockey calendar presents itself, in the interim, we ask all Fans, Players, Coaches, Officials, and Staff to continue to abide by the measures put in place by their local authorities and follow precautionary protocols for their safety, as we will begin preparations for the 2020-21 ECHL Hockey Season.”

The Idaho Steelheads have also issued a statement:

"We are saddened that we were not able to finish the season for our players, our staff, our partners, and especially our fans, however the health and safety of everyone involved is and must be our top priority. You have continued to show to the league why Steelheads fans are the best fanbase across the ECHL, and we cannot thank you enough for your unbridled support throughout the year. We look forward to seeing you again in the 2020-21 season.

"In the meantime, we will be issuing a credit toward next season or refunds for the remaining home games. This process will take a few days to implement, so please be patient with our staff as we continue to work through this. Thank you for your understanding and patience in this time, and go Steelheads."