Canadian League teams and players to be included in EA Sports' NHL 11

By Monika Moravan

Brandon, Man. – Fans of junior hockey will be able to get their fantasy fix this September. The Canadian League and Electronic Arts Inc. have entered into an agreement to include players from the CHL’s three regional leagues - the Western League (WHL), the Ontario League (OHL) and the Quebec League (QMJHL) - in EA Sports NHL 11. 

“The CHL is very excited to partner with an industry leader like EA Sports to create a brand new way for CHL fans to associate with their favorite CHL teams and players,” said David Branch, president of the CHL. “This opportunity also provides EA Sports fans around the world the ability to learn more about the next wave of NHL stars as they compete in the best development league in the world.”

EA Sports vice-president of marketing, Jordan Edelstein, added: “It’s exciting to have the CHL integrated into our game for the first time. Their inclusion will make NHL 11 the most definitive and complete hockey experience available.”

Former CHL players Patrick Kane, Dion Phaneuf, Eric Staal and Vincent Lecavalier have been featured on the cover of EA Sports’ NHL Series game in four of the past five editions. 

Several modes in the game will integrate the CHL, including Be A Pro, Be A GM, Tournament Mode, Season Mode and Playoff Mode.

Other CHL features in NHL 11 will be: 

• Ability to play with all 60 teams that make up the CHL

• Names and Likenesses of players that are on the rosters of a CHL team

• Mastercard Memorial Cup

• CHL new RBK Edge Jersey design in NHL 11

• WHL, OHL and QMJHL logos and league structures