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Do a quick Google search for “The best quality of life” and chances are that Denmark is near or at the top of the list. Denmark is a Nordic nation of just six million people, made up of a large peninsula called “Jutland” and a series of 443 islands. Its capital, Copenhagen, is one of the great capitals of Europe. It boasts robust healthcare, education, as well as the best income equality in the world. When it comes to hockey, Denmark may not be a powerhouse, but it's come a long way. In the last decade, the U20 and National Men's team have both made major strides at the highest level. In the NHL, Denmark has achieved a breakthrough in the past 15 years, producing players like Freddie Andersen, Frans Neilsen, Oliver Bjorkstrand, Nikolaj Ehlers and Stanley Cup champion Lars Eller. Denmark has a hockey culture that is trending in the right direction.

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Denmark's national league, currently known as the “Metal Ligaen” after its main sponsor “Dansk Metal”, has seen its level of play rise in the past decade. A large portion of revenue for the Metal Ligaen is derived from sponsorship agreements. Despite some financial hardships including some clubs declaring bankruptcy, the Danish Metal Ligaen has become a very strong “stepping stone league” where players from North America can establish themselves on the European continent.

Historically, the top clubs in the league have been SønderjyskE, Aalborg and Herning. Although in recent years Esbjerg, Rungsted and Frederikshavn have experienced a degree of success as well. Rødovre, Herlev and Odense typically finish at the bottom of the table.

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Generally speaking, Danish clubs will need to see a professional resume with some ECHL and AHL service time or equivalent European experience although occasionally some exceptional players can enter the league directly out of NCAA or USPORTS.

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Salaries for imports in the Metal Ligaen will typically range from 15,000 Euro to 40,000 Euro, depending on the team and the resume of the player. Some domestic Danish players, especially younger players, are semi-professional and make significantly less than the North American imports. All teams are allowed an unlimited amount of imports however, the league operates with a salary cap. The team will typically handle all matters of immigration, as well as pay agent fees.

Upon arriving in Denmark, players will be typically given above average lodging, access to a vehicle (sometimes shared between the North American imports), and they are treated very well. One former NHL player that I spoke to, told me that the locker room in the Metal Ligaen was the most accommodating he had ever been in, almost like family. The season, curiously enough, varies between 40 and 50 games each year. Unlike other Nordic hockey nations, Denmark does not operate a system of promotion between their lower leagues and the Metal Ligaen, and 8 of the 9 teams in the Metal Ligaen make the playoffs. Representatives from the Metal Ligaen also participate in both the IIHF Continental Cup and the Champions Hockey League.

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Some former North American imports to find success in the Danish Metal Ligaen are: Kodi Curran, Dane Fox, Brett Thompson, Dale Mitchell and Peter Quenneville.

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I spoke to Jørgen Illeman, General Manager of Rødovre Mighty Bulls, one of the 9 teams in the Metal Ligaen. I asked Jørgen what makes hockey in Denmark special.  “It's a small sport that's growing faster now. Denmark is a little country but still produces NHL, SHL and DEL players. Here, it's almost a lifestyle when you start hockey, most family members get involved. It's a very good country for players who don't reach the NHL, where they can start a good European career.”

I also asked him what type of players would be successful in the Metal Ligaen. “Players with speed and technical skill. Many North American imports are surprised by the level of play in the league, particularly the speed. You need to have good vision and be able to read the play/see the offensive pass. Players are serious both on and off the ice, it's no longer a league where you can skate at 80% and collect a salary each month.”

 

Something that I've heard from a lot of former players and coaches in the Metal Ligaen is that the speed will surprise you. Whilst not as skilled as some other European leagues, the pace of play in the Danish league is very high. All things considered, the Danish Metal Ligaen is a fantastic starting place for any player that is looking to make the jump to Europe, live in a world class country, be treated well and continue to build a strong resume.

 

If you're interested in learning more about the Danish Metal Ligaen or any other league in Europe, please email dave@bishopsports.ca

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Dave Bishop is a hockey agent, and the proprietor of Bishop Sports Corporation. He also works as a Keeper of the Stanley Cup through The Hockey Hall of Fame. If you'd like more information on playing in Europe, please email Dave at dave@bishopsports.ca

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