The ice at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena was notably empty this weekend after the Orlando Solar Bears and Jacksonville Icemen were set to face off. Fans were left in the cold when the Professional Hockey Players' Association (PHPA) decided to strike, as reported by WFTV. The move came after the ECHL administrators presented what they described as their "last, best, and final offer" in a move that has, for now, left sticks unclenched and pucks at a standstill.
The storm of the strike rolled in swiftly after ECHL offered a 19.8% pay increase retroactive from the season's start, promises of a 27% increase in total salaries through future salary cap hikes, and improved conditions regarding days off and travel expenses, yet the union didn't respond in time – as the ECHL leaders point out, according to information obtained by FOX 35 Orlando. The PHPA shot back, underscoring their drive for basic safety and working conditions, including proper-fitting helmets, and calling out the league's alleged regressive negotiation tactics and unfair labor practices, even filing a charge with the National Labor Relations Board aimed to spur good-faith bargaining.
In the deadlock of the current dispute, the future of the Solar Bears' games hangs in the balance, with the upcoming match at the Kia Center in Orlando still scheduled – but standing on thin ice. Tickets, starting at $25.95, might turn out to be bookmarks for a chapter of the season that's yet to be written if the PHPA and ECHL can’t navigate back to the bargaining table with their skates laced tight and ready for more rounds of negotiation.
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