Hockey

The Bloomington Bison return to the ice this week after ECHL players and the league ratified their new collective bargaining agreement following a strike that postponed three Bison games.

After a work stoppage postponed three Bloomington Bison pro hockey games this weekend, players are set to report back to their teams with a tentative labor agreement in place.

Hockey players in the ECHL went on strike Friday over unresolved contract negotiations, postponing at least three Bloomington Bison games and threatening dozens more.

The union that represents hockey players on the Bloomington Bison and other ECHL teams said it plans to go on strike starting Friday, alleging the league violated federal labor law during contract negotiations. The ECHL says players will lose their housing, medical benefits and pay if they do.

The union representing players for the Bloomington Bison and other ECHL hockey teams have voted to authorize a strike after negotiating for months on a new contract.

The Veteran Warriors hockey team touts itself as the only sports program in Central Illinois dedicated to rehabilitation and therapy for disabled veterans. They strive to provide a buddy-check support system and an experience for veterans suffering from PTSD, substance abuse, or other issues.

Head coach Phillip Barski said the team has recruited some new defensive players who can move the puck, helping to create a more well-rounded team.

The Bloomington Bison hockey team missed the playoffs in its first season, but coach and General Manager Phillip Barski said he senses momentum heading into the second season next year, on the ice and off, in a growing fan base.

At the first-of-its-kind fundraiser game for the Humane Society of Central Illinois, adoptable dogs and more than 100 pet dogs came out to see the Bloomington Bison hockey team.

Manager of Bloomington Ice Center Michael Hernbrott will be inducted into the Illinois Hockey Hall of Fame under the coaches category in January.