The English Ice Hockey Association announced the introduction of a new structure for the men’s senior league ahead of the 2019/20 season.

At a meeting of NIHL clubs in Warwickshire, the creation of a new ten-team division was approved, sitting above the existing Division 1 in both the North and South.

The National League consisted of Basingstoke Bison, Bracknell Bees, Hull Pirates, Leeds, MK Lightning, Peterborough Phantoms, Raiders, Sheffield Steeldogs, Swindon Wildcats, and Telford Tigers.

The proposed memberships for the remaining leagues were also confirmed during the meeting:

South Division 1: Invicta Dynamos, MK Thunder, Streatham, Chelmsford Chieftains, Solent Devils, Slough Jets, Oxford City Stars, Bracknell Hornets, Raiders Juniors, with a tenth team later confirmed.

North Division 1: Solway Sharks, Whitley Warriors, Solihull Barons, Sutton Sting, Blackburn Hawks, Billingham Stars, Nottingham Lions, with an eighth team added subsequently.

A separate North Cup competition also took place, featuring Murrayfield Racers and Dundee Comets from the Scottish National League. Full details of that competition were released later.

South Division 2: Guildford Phoenix, Bristol Pitbulls, Cardiff Fire, Peterborough Phantoms 2, Haringey Huskies, Invicta Mustangs, Basingstoke Buffalo, Swindon Wildcats 2, Lee Valley Lions, Solent 2, Streatham 2.

North Division 2: Widnes Wild, Hull Jets, Sheffield Senators, Bradford Bulldogs, Coventry Blaze, Dragons, Altrincham Aces, Blackburn Hawks 2, Telford Tigers 2.

Paul Hayes, Director of the EIHA Senior Leagues, said: 

“Today was a very positive meeting and the conclusion of several weeks of consultation and dialogue between the league management and our clubs.

The structure agreed today is something of a step back to move forward, but it will be a sustainable model at all three levels with competitive games in all divisions.

Myself and the NLMG are grateful to the clubs for their patience, support, and input into the process, and we look forward to an exciting end to our current NIHL season and starting work towards 19/20.”

The league later released further details about the divisions and shared statements from several of the clubs involved.