Poland Ekstraliga
Orlik Opole
Naprzod Janow
PKH Gdansk
SMS PZHL U20
PZHL U23
Wikipedia - Polska Hokej Liga
The Polska Hokej Liga (PHL) is the premier ice hockey league in Poland. Previously, it was known as the I Liga or Ekstraklasa from 1926 to 1999, and the Polska Liga Hokejowa from 1999 to 2013. In 2013, it was reorganized as a limited liability company and renamed the Polska Hokej Liga. It follows a system of relegation to and promotion to/from the Polish 1. Liga.
Teams from the PHL can participate in the IIHF's annual Champions Hockey League (CHL), competing for the European Trophy. Participation is based on the strength of the various leagues in Europe (excluding the European/Asian Kontinental Hockey League). Going into the 2022–23 CHL season, the PHL was ranked the No. 12 league in Europe, allowing them to send their top team to compete in the CHL.
History
The championship started in 1925-26. At first, it was a non-league system composed of regional tournaments. The tournaments had two stages. The best teams qualified to the final tournament, of which the winner was declared champion. In 1938, the Polish Ice Hockey Federation decided to reorganize the championship, by creating a league system. Those plans were abandoned due to the outbreak of World War II.
The current structure of the league began in 1955.
The Ekstraliga features a series of intense matches throughout the season, where teams from various cities compete for the coveted championship title. Each game is a display of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship, drawing passionate fans who support their local teams with fervor.
The tournament not only highlights the athletic prowess of the players but also fosters a vibrant hockey culture in Poland, with youth programs and grassroots initiatives aimed at developing the next generation of talent.
As the season progresses, the excitement builds towards the playoffs, culminating in a thrilling championship series that determines the league champion. The Poland Ekstraliga is not just a tournament; it is a celebration of ice hockey, community, and national pride, making it a must-watch event for sports enthusiasts both in Poland and around the world.