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PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) — Following a two-day hiatus from hockey, both parties involved have shown a readiness to return to the ice.
The class AA ECHL and the Professional Hockey Players’ Association, which advocates for the athletes, have announced a preliminary agreement to conclude the recent players’ walkout.
Updated:
PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) — After two days of no hockey, it appears both sides were willing to find a way to get back on the ice.
According to the class AA ECHL and the union that represents its players, the Professional Hockey Players’ Association, a tentative agreement has been reached, ending the walk-out.
“The tentative agreement remains subject to ratification by the PHPA’s ECHL membership and approval by the ECHL Board of Governors,” the union announced on its website. “Players will report to their teams in good faith and prepare to return to play, pending ratification and approval.”
The league issued an identical statement on its website
A total of 28 games had been postponed Friday and Saturday since the PHPA went on strike.
The union and the league have been in talks for months after the last collective bargaining agreement over the summer. The season started with an expired contract but the two sides had hoped things would work out.
Among the 30 teams in the league are the Bloomington Bison which play in Grossinger Motors Arena, which is city-owned. In 2024, the Bison and City Hall entered into an agreement to bring the team as well as set up financial terms.
