Central Hockey League and PHPA Agree on New CBA

The Central Hockey League (CHL) announced today that CHL team owners have voted in favor of a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) reaching an agreement with the Professional Hockey Players' Association (PHPA). The agreement was reached in principal prior to the start of the 2012-13 regular season and was voted on by CHL member teams and a majority of the players in the past week.

"We are pleased to move forward with this Agreement with the PHPA, and thank the CHL Owners for their hard work, vision and patience during this process," said Lewis. "I would also like to thank the Players for their efforts in reaching this agreement. Our season is already underway and CHL fans are enjoying the highest level of professional hockey the CHL has experienced. We look forward to the remainder of the 2012-13 season."

Many of the provisions in the previous CBA will continue in the new agreement including REDLINE Membership Assistance Program (a 24/7/365 counseling service for players), Career Enhancement Program for players wishing to advance their education and off-ice health insurance for players and their families.

Main financial components such as salary cap, salary floor and the league's minimum salary remained unchanged from the previous CBA while alterations were made to the injured reserve system as well as the Christmas break.

"We are happy to get this deal in place and look forward to an exciting year of CHL action," said Larry Landon, PHPA Executive Director. "We wanted to negotiate a deal where players would feel comfortable competing, knowing that they would receive appropriate off-ice care and insurance benefits.