Mestis
Mestis is the 2nd highest level of ice hockey in Finland.
NCAA Division 1 (Mens)
NCAA Division 1 Hockey is the top level of collegiate men's hockey in the United States.
Skill Level in Mestis
It's a quality 2nd league in a powerhouse hockey country. In general, Mestis is a slightly younger league with a lot of quality up-and-coming talent. Compared to other hockey countries, most clubs here don't have the same financial budgets that other 2nd leagues (HockeyAllsvenskan, DEL2) might have. The majority of players in the league are Finnish.
Skill Level in NCAA Division 1 (Men's)
NCAA Division 1 Men’s Hockey is the top level of collegiate ice hockey in the United States, featuring elite collegiate players. The level of competition is strong. Many of top junior, prep school, and U18 players around the globe who want to go the NCAA route strive to play here at this level.
Player Perspective: Mestis
"It's a good league with lot of young players coming up. We play in southern Finland (Södra) so our travel schedule is a bit lighter, but we keep busy between all training, matches, and team event. I have played in Liiga of course, but am happy here now raising a family in my home town."
Player Perspective: NCAA Division 1 (Men's)
"Playing NCAA hockey was the best preparation I could have had for my professional career. I was able to mature and gain more confidence too. The level of competition is intense."
Number of Teams in Mestis: 12
Number of Teams in NCAA Division 1 (Men's): 64