Shortly before the 2025-2026 season ended, the Iowa Heartlanders announced that they would not participate in the 2026-2027 ECHL season. According to reports, this decision was entirely voluntary on the Heartlanders’ part. However, it follows a series of labor uncertainties in the ECHL (the league the Heartlanders play in), including strikes in December after the league and the players’ union failed to reach a deal. On top of that, the Heartlanders have faced significant financial issues.

“We’ve made some progress, but just not enough in the areas we need to, so we’re taking a step back and reevaluating,” Heartlanders president Matt Getz told KCRG.

Witten Johnson ‘28 is a hockey fan who regularly goes to Heartlanders games.

“I am a little upset, as I always love going to Heartlanders games. However, I do understand and respect their decision, so I’m not too mad about it,” Johnson said.

Some local businesses are concerned about the suspension because of the potential hardship it might cause for Iowa River Landing, where the Heartlanders’ rink is located.

“It’s sad because they bring a lot of business here. It doesn’t just affect them, it also affects us, especially because we see a lot of business on days the Heartlanders play,” Chad Demoriaya, an employee at X-Golf’s Iowa River Landing location said.