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 tournament features intense and thrilling matches, where players demonstrate their exceptional skills, speed, and agility on the ice. The teams battle it out in a series of games, displaying their strategic gameplay, teamwork, and determination to secure victory.
The Poland Ekstraliga attracts a large and passionate fan base, who fill the arenas with their unwavering support and create an electric atmosphere. The spectators are treated to a spectacle of fast-paced action, bone-crushing hits, and spectacular goals, making it an unforgettable experience for all.
The tournament also serves as a platform for emerging talents to showcase their abilities, as scouts from professional leagues around the world closely follow the performances of the players. This provides an opportunity for young athletes to make a name for themselves and potentially secure contracts with renowned international teams.
The Poland Ekstraliga not only promotes the sport of ice hockey in Poland but also fosters a sense of national pride and unity among the fans. It has become a symbol of excellence in the sport, with teams and players striving to achieve greatness and etch their names in the history of Polish ice hockey.
Overall, the Poland Ekstraliga is a thrilling and competitive ice hockey tournament that captivates fans with its high-quality gameplay, passionate supporters, and the opportunity for players to shine on the national stage.