ECHL
The ECHL is a minor professional ice hockey league. It is North America's 3rd highest level of pro hockey sitting under the AHL and NHL.
PHL (Polish Hockey League)
The Polska Hokej Liga (PHL) is the top professional ice hockey league in Poland, featuring the nation's top hockey clubs and players.
Skill Level in ECHL
The ECHL is the main AA professional ice hockey league in North America. As the 3rd highest level of pro ice hockey in North America, it sits directly under the AHL and above the SPHL. The far majority of ECHL clubs have direct affiliations with NHL clubs and it's a big development league for players aiming to move up the pro ranks to the AHL and NHL.
Skill Level in PHL
The PHL (Polska Hokej Liga- Polish Hockey League) is Poland’s top hockey league. The league continues to grow steadily in quality each year in big part by attracting more international imports across many clubs.
Player Perspective: ECHL
"Playing in the Coast was important for my career coming out of college. My time grinding here in the league helped me further develop my game and to mature as I prepared for that next level of pro. That jump may not have been possible without my experience here."
Player Perspective: PHL
"As an import, Poland was a good place for me to begin playing overseas. The training over here reminds me a bit of that Eastern bloc style in that you train super hard in the gym and on the ice, but you get in real good hockey shape conditioning wise quick. The fans here will chant all game. They have a drum guy, coordinated chants, and a few of the ultras will light up flares in the supporter section sometimes. It's wild in a good way!"
Number of Teams in ECHL: 28
Number of Teams in PHL: 9