Worcester Railers, Islanders ECHL Team, Suspend Season
The Worcester Railers, the ECHL affiliate of the New York Islanders, announced this afternoon that their 2020-21 season is suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This announcement came along with the entire North Division of the ECHL putting their season on a total hold.
“This was an extremely difficult announcement for us to make,” said Railers HC owner Cliff Rucker. “We tried everything in our power to make the 2020-21 season a reality for our staff, players, and the City of Worcester. Moving forward, the Railers are committed to Worcester and will continue to be a large part of this community as we prepare to hit the ice again in October 2021.”
The ECHL and the fight for the Kelly Cup will continue this year though. Thirteen teams will kick-off the season on Dec. 11. Certain clubs who did not start on this date will also join the 2020-21 season on January 15. The Railers will not be one of these teams, however.
Top players in the club, such as Nic Pierog, will have options for this season. According to the collective bargaining agreement for the PHPA, which represents both the AHL and ECHL, all rostered players will be free agents for the season. No players have made comments on their future in hockey at this time.
The Bridgeport Sound Tigers, the parent of the Railers, have also experienced issues in regards the start of their season. Initially setting their start date as Dec. 4th, Bridgeport and the AHL are now aiming for Feb. 5. The NHL still has its sights on the season starting on Jan. 1, despite the cancellations of minor league affiliates.
A cancellation may have long term effects for the league and the Worcester Railers organization. Though, what these effects could result in remains to be seen.
“Although we are extremely disappointed, it is vital for us to continue to move forward,” said Railers HC President Stephanie Ramey. “It will be our priority to communicate with our members, corporate partners, and our fans over the next several weeks as we prepare for the return of ECHL hockey to Worcester.”
Season ticket holders of the organization will be paid in credits for the 2021-22 season in full. Ticketholders may also choose to donate their credits to the Worcester Railers HC foundation.
