The future of British hockey...

Earlier in the season, I posted my idea for a more sustainable league format for the sport here in the UK.

Recent rumors seem to be suggesting that I'm not the only one to have had these thoughts, and that some significant changes might be afoot. Obviously, most of this is just rumour and heresay at the moment, but I thought it wise to re-cap the various bits and pieces which have reached my ears, so we can look back come the off season and see just how accurate thes erumors are/were.

So, without further ado, here we go...

Rumor 1: A new Northern Premier League is going to be formed. This will feature a number of North England teams, along with the stronger Scottish sides, playing in a 4 import league (much like the EPL). Various combinations of teams have been mentioned in relation to this rumour, with the common thread being that at least 2 current EIHL sides are interested in 'dropping down' to this level. Also, a persistent part of this one features a number of sides who have tried and failed to run import hockey being involved. Odds of fruition: 50-1.

Rumour 2: A new 'Northern League' featuring the top Scottish Teams, plus the majority of the ENL North to start. This may be an expansion of the ENL into north of the border, and would amke sense, possibly allowing a split into 2 divisions as per the ENL South (ie ENL North 1&2/ENL South 1&2). Would likely require a re-branding of the ENL to a more 'British' name (eg BNL/BNIHL). Odds: 10-1. This one seems pretty Strong.

Rumour 3: The 8 import 'Anglo-Scottish League'. This is broadly similar to the NPL rumour, alb eit featuring everyone in the EIHL outside of the 'Big 4' plus Fife and Dundee reverting to a level similar to the defunct BNL (8 impoerts, lower wage cap). Could be a goer. Odds: 20-1.

Rumour 4: EIHL to drop to 8 imports, BAsingstoke to stay in the league, wage cap to be lowered. According to rumor, only 1 EIHL side is against a reduction in the import and wage level (could be Nottingham of Sheffield depending on who you here it from). Would essentially maintain the status quo. Odds: 10-1. Just as likely as Rumor 2.

And there you go.