FPHL cancels remainder of regular season and playoffs

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C.- The Carolina Thunderbirds, proud members of the Federal Prospects Hockey League, are saddened by the FPHL’s decision to cancel the remainder of the 2019-2020 FPHL regular season and playoffs.

The Thunderbirds, however, fully support the decision made by the board of governors this afternoon and believe this is the correct step in promotion the health and safety of all players, coaches, staff, and spectators.

“It is regrettable that after finishing at the top of the western division and at the top of the league for the second straight season that our group will not have the chance to make history as back-to-back Commissioner’s Cup champions,” said head coach Andre Niec on Monday afternoon.

Niec tied the all-time wins record for FPHL head coaches (147, Phil Esposito) on Sunday with a 9-3 win over the Columbus River Dragons.

The Thunderbirds finish the season 33-6-2-5 with 108 standings points and .783 win percentage. According to FPHL scoring, Carolina will finish at the top of the FPHL standings for the second consecutive season. Carolina becomes the second franchise in league history to finish at the top of the league standings in back-to-back seasons (Dayton Demonz, 2013 and 2014).

No Commissioner’s Cup champion will be named this season.

Finally, the Thunderbirds would like to thank you the fans for your continued support all season long. Carolina brought in 76,425 fans to 27 home games this season.

Please follow the Carolina Thunderbirds on social media and this webpage for more details as they become available regarding the response to the COVID-19 pandemic and details on the 2020-2021 season.