ECHL vs Regionalliga

How would you compare/contrast ECHL and Regionalliga?

The ECHL sits at a much higher level than Regionalliga which is the 4th tier in Germany. Although there's a handful of high-end imports and German ex-pros still playing here, the overall level isn't on the same tier.

We have had partners on our team that have scouted many games here. Our insights come from their work on the ground at these matches.

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.

Regionalliga

The Regionalliga is the fourth-tier ice hockey league in Germany, featuring amateur and semi-professional teams across various regions.

Location: North America

Location: Germany

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 Regionalliga

The Regionalliga serves as Germany’s fourth-tier league, featuring 36 amateur and semi-professional teams. It emphasizes community-based competition.

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: Regionalliga

"Playing in the Regionalliga allowed me to continue my passion for competitive hockey while pursuing my studies and then entering the business world in my career. Several players on our team have previously played in the top leagues here in Germany so they bring a ton to the table for us."

Number of Teams in ECHL: 28

Number of Teams in Regionalliga: 44

Caliber of Players and Imports in ECHL

Skill level of ECHL players is quite high, with the league only getting more skilled each year as more NHL/AHL clubs fill rosters here with up and coming prospects. A healthy percentage of ECHL rosters are filled with promising young players who have hopes to step up to the A and National league. You also have a number of seasoned veterans who possess many games in the ECHL, AHL, and a few who've had some cups of coffee in The Show (NHL). If you're undrafted and not a top major junior, NCAA, USports, or elite European player coming in, you'll have a tough time cracking a lineup here.