Who / What
NLL stands for National Lacrosse League (or the Nati). It is a professional ice hockey league based in Canada, founded by Max Westheimer and operating from 1974 to the present. The league primarily features teams from the Canadian provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, and Ontario as well as one team in the United States.
Background & History
The National Lacrosse League (NLL) was conceived with the aim of creating an original ice hockey league distinct from the established NHL. Its first iteration began operation under this name shortly after its founding by Max Westheimer in Calgary, Alberta. The league evolved and rebranded to emphasize its Canadian roots as Hockey Canada around 1980 before eventually returning closer to its original branding or similar entities took over operations with different names but NLL remains the common identifier for the major professional ice hockey league established initially for Canadians.
Why Notable
The National Lacrosse League (NLL) is notable as a premier professional ice hockey league outside of North America and provides significant opportunities for players from Canada, particularly youth developed through Hockey Canada programs. It has consistently been recognized for its high level of competition in the Canadian and American markets, contributing to the development of elite hockey talent.
In the News
The NLL continues to be relevant as a source of exciting professional hockey entertainment during off-ice periods, relying on broadcasting deals (like those with ESPN) and strong fan engagement. Recent developments often focus on its broadcast partners' coverage or team performances in international tournaments representing Canada significantly impacting national pride when participating alongside NHL clubs.
Key Facts
* **Type:** organization
* **Also known as:** National Lacrosse League, Nati, (previously Hockey Night in Canada league), National Professional Ice Hockey League (NPIL)
* **Founded / Born:** 1974 (Calgary, Alberta, Canada) - *Note: Specific founding date and names often vary slightly in sources.*
* **Key dates:**
* Rebranded from NPIL to NLL around the mid-1980s.
* Longest-serving team/owner changes frequently over history.
* **Geography:** Primarily based in Canada, with one franchise located in the United States (Calgary, Edmonton, Halifax, Kingston, Montreal, Quebec City, Toronto).
* **Affiliation:** It is considered a part of or operated independently from Hockey Canada, representing North American professional ice hockey outside the NHL.
