Bloomington Bison reveal NHL affiliate and head coach ahead of inaugural season

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (WAND) - The Bloomington Bison ECHL hockey team revealed their first head coach and NHL affiliate today.

 

The new franchise will be connected to the New York Rangers, with Phillip Barski leading the program in its first season.

 

The Bison were announced as the latest ECHL expansion team on January 24, 2024. The ECHL serves as a professional minor league connection to top-tier teams, one step below the American Hockey League.

 

Supporters eagerly awaited today's announcement at Grossinger Motors Arena, with many wearing hockey apparel for their favorite franchises.  Guests expected a regional connection to either the Chicago Blackhawks or St. Louis Blues. Still, there was lots of applause when Bloomington Mayor, Mboka Mwilambwe, and front office personnel unveiled the Rangers and an "Original Six" connection.

 

"I think the important thing for having a winning culture and a winning team is really great people, " said Matt Marlow, Director of Hockey Operations with the Hartford Wolfpack (Rangers AHL affiliate). "The players here are not just going to come to the rink and their apartment. They're going to be here building relationships."

 

Phillip Barski will lead the program in their first season, after serving as an associate coach with the Barrie Colts (Ontario Hockey League). Barski say's he's excited to continue pursuing his dream of coaching and is thankful for his family's support.

 

"Both my parents are very involved," he said. "They'll send me potential players that I should consider signing. My wife is my cheerleader. She supports me and allows me to pursue my passion."

 

There are still essentials that need to be finalized for the Bison program, such as the team roster and schedule. Uniforms are in the process of being made.

 

The ECHL's 2023-24 season began last year on October 19th.