A new era for ice hockey has officially begun with the launch of the Balkan Hockey League (BHL), an international competition created to accelerate the growth of the sport throughout the Balkan region while providing players, clubs and fans with a premier competitive platform.
The BHL was founded to unite clubs across Southeastern Europe, raise the standard of competition, expand player development opportunities and strengthen collaboration among national hockey communities.
The inaugural 2026-27 season will feature three founding clubs:
- Skopje Herd (North Macedonia)
- HK Spartak Subotica (Serbia)
- NSA Sofia (Bulgaria)
The Balkan Hockey League is committed to providing a sustainable and financially responsible competitive platform for clubs across Southeastern Europe. By prioritizing long-term stability, regional collaboration, and responsible operating costs, the League aims to strengthen the development of hockey throughout the region while creating greater opportunities for athletes, coaches, and clubs.
“The Balkan Hockey League represents much more than a new competition. It is an opportunity to unite hockey communities across Southeastern Europe while creating development opportunities for players and coaches and more importantly, inspire the next generation of hockey players throughout the region. Our goal is to build a sustainable league that continues to grow for many years to come,” Nick DiLisi, BHL Co-Founder.
“We are proud and excited to join the BHL and be part of the return of senior hockey to Subotica. This is more than a new league, it’s a new chapter for hockey in our city, bringing back the intensity, passion and competitive spirit that Subotica deserves. We’re ready to represent our city, compete at the highest level and help build something special in the BHL,” Uros Brestovac, HK Spartak Subotica Head Coach.
“From my behalf, this Balkan League will be the start of good competitive hockey that will help Balkan clubs grow and bring the level up. My team is looking forward to new opportunities to play abroad and challenge new players,” Svetlin Stoev, NSA Sofia Head Coach.
League organizers anticipate future expansion as additional clubs from across the Balkans express interest in joining the competition.
Additional information regarding the league schedule and competition format will be announced in the coming weeks. Fans are encouraged to follow the league on Instagram @BalkanHockeyLeague for the latest details.
