Liiga
Liiga is the top ice hockey league in Finland.
NCAA Division 3 (Men's)
NCAA Division 3 Men’s Hockey is a competitive collegiate level of ice hockey in the United States, sitting below NCAA Division 1.
Skill Level in Liiga
Liiga is the highest professional hockey league in Finland. Founded in 1975, the league has 15 clubs that span from the South near Helsinki all the way up to the Arctic Circle. It's considered by many to be one of the stronger leagues in Europe.
Skill Level in NCAA Division 3 (Men's)
NCAA Division 3 Men’s Hockey is a competitive collegiate level of ice hockey in the United States, sitting below NCAA Division 1. Alongside the quality level of hockey, NCAA D3 has a strong emphasis on academics and athletics. The majority of players at this level previously played high level juniors, prep school, and youth hockey levels for many years prior to moving into D3 Hockey.
Player Perspective: Liiga
"Liiga is the perfect league to play in, especially as an import from North America who enjoys the physical play paired with skill. I'd agree that Liiga's caliber is up there with a number of the top leagues in Europe based on my experience also playing in Germany and Austria. The fans hear love their hockey.
Player Perspective: NCAA Division 3 (Men's)
"Playing D3 Hockey gave me the best of both worlds. I was able to play close to home and earn my degree all while playing at a high level. I credit my ability to play pro after college to the development I gained here."
Number of Teams in Liiga: 15
Number of Teams in NCAA Division 3 (Men's): 93