The Bloomington Bison hockey team is keeping its head coach for another two years.
In a media release Wednesday afternoon, the team announced an agreement with Vice President of Hockey Operations and Head Coach Phillip Barski, adding a two-year extension to his contract.
"We are excited to continue forward with Phillip leading our hockey operations and coaching staff," Bloomington Bison President Andy Zilch said in a statement. "His leadership, commitment to player development and ability to build a strong culture have been instrumental in the progress of our organization."
Part of the ECHL, the minor league team has had wins on and off the ice in its first two seasons as a franchise. The Bison scored an NHL affiliation with the New York Rangers in 2024 and reached the playoffs in 2026, narrowly missing postseason play in the team's first year.
Last week, the team also clinched two league awards: the ECHL Rising Star Growth Award and Corporate Partnership Team of the Year. The nods recognized a 60% boost in season ticket sales year-over-year, plus a nearly 13% increase in overall seats filled at Grossinger Motors Arena. The City of Bloomington, which owns and operates the venue, is hoping to capitalize on the momentum and is looking to court a new sponsor for naming rights at the venue. The Grossinger autogroup's contract ran out in 2022, although its name is still on the building.
It hasn't been all smooth sailing.
The union representing ECHL players, including the Bison, voted to authorize a strike late last year, alleging the league violated federal labor law during contract negotiations. The work stoppage postponed three games before a new contract was ratified.
The team cites Barski's presence as a sign of continuity for the team. Barski said he's grateful to the ownership for their continued support.
"Bloomington has become a very special place for me, and I believe strongly in what we are building here," he said. "This past season was an important step for our organization, but we know there is still a lot of work ahead."
Originally from Ontario, Canada, Barski played hockey for 18 years and had 15 years of coaching experience prior to joining the Bison.
The Bison's home opener is Oct. 17.
