The NIHL North 2 (Laidler) Conference sits within the senior regional structure of UK ice hockey organised under the umbrella of the English Ice Hockey Association (EIHA). This competition occupies the second tier of the Northern section of the National Ice Hockey League (NIHL) (i.e., Division 2 North) and is commonly referred to as the “Laidler” Conference.
Structure and Format
Clubs participating in the Laidler Conference engage in a standard league schedule comprising home and away fixtures against fellow Conference members. A recent format briefing confirmed that in one iteration teams compete in a double home, double away format within subdivisions, while also facing teams from the parallel section once home and once away.
In addition, the Laidler Cup (a knockout-style competition) runs concurrently, often using the first league meetings between clubs as qualification matches for the cup tables. At the end of the regular campaign, the top-ranked clubs proceed into play-offs and a Finals Weekend event where the division champion is decided.
Role and Significance
The Laidler Conference performs several key functions within the UK ice hockey pyramid:
– It provides a competitive senior adult platform for clubs operating at a level below the top regional division (Moralee / North 1) yet above purely recreational formats.
– It encourages regional representation in the Northern region (covering Northern England and sometimes North Wales), helping minimise travel burdens and fostering local rivalries.
– The presence of a cup competition and play-offs offers additional incentive beyond the league table, contributing to club ambition, spectator interest and development of players.
– It aligns with the EIHA’s broader strategy of offering tiered competition levels, facilitating progression opportunities and structural clarity within the NIHL framework.
Participation & Club Level
Teams in the Laidler Conference are typically senior non-elite clubs, many with established junior development programmes and local community engagement. For example, one club in the division emphasises its full youth system from under-10s through to senior level as part of its structure.
While exact club lists fluctuate year to year, the division remains firmly competitive — recent commentary described it as “one of the most competitive divisions in the NIHL” in the Northern section.
Governance & Oversight
The EIHA administers the NIHL and manages aspects such as fixture scheduling, playoff structure, cup competitions and regulatory rules. The Laidler Conference format (including home/away splits, cup weighting and play-off structures) is subject to annual review and may evolve to reflect club numbers, travel logistics and competitive balance.
Summary
In summary, the NIHL North 2 (Laidler) Conference is a structured, competitive senior league tier in Northern UK ice hockey. It offers a meaningful arena for clubs that are ambitious but not at the elite national tier, maintains regional club engagement, and incorporates both league and knockout elements to deliver a varied competitive season. The Conference remains a pivotal component of the NIHL’s Northern section, supporting player development, club sustainability and spectator interest across the region.