Promotion
Bloomington Bison Bloomington Bison
Schedule
Get Tickets

Search

Search Bloomington Bison Site

  1. Home
  2. News
  3. Bloomington Bison Extend Head Coach Barski
Wednesday, July 1st

Bloomington Bison Extend Head Coach Barski

Bloomington Bison Extend Head Coach Barski

BLOOMINGTON, Ill – Bloomington Bison President Andy Zilch announced today that Phillip Barski has agreed to a two-year contract extension as Vice President of Hockey Operations and Head Coach.

“We are excited to continue forward with Phillip leading our hockey operations and coaching staff,” said Zilch. “His leadership, commitment to player development and ability to build a strong culture have been instrumental in the progress of our organization. Reaching the Kelly Cup Playoffs for the first time, finishing third in the Central Division and showing meaningful improvement in wins, points and goal production were important steps for the Bison last season. We believe this extension provides continued stability and direction for the future.”

Since arriving in Bloomington, Barski has played a central role in building the Bison’s hockey operations department, roster foundation, player development structure and organizational standards in accountability and growth on and off the ice.

Under Barski’s leadership, the Bison made significant year-over-year progress, improving by six wins and 11 points from their expansion season while also increasing their goal production by 37 goals. The improvements came while the organization navigated roster turnover, injuries and player movement with NHL and AHL affiliates.

“I am extremely grateful to ownership and management for their continued trust and support,” said Barski. “Bloomington has become a very special place for me, and I believe strongly in what we are building here. This past season was an important step for our organization, but we know there is still a lot of work ahead. I am excited to continue leading this group, developing our players and helping bring sustained success to the Bison and our fans.”

The extension reinforces the Bison’s commitment to continuity and long-term growth as the organization continues to establish itself within the ECHL and the Bloomington community.

Additional hockey operations updates will be announced at a later date.

2026-27 Full Season Memberships are available for as low as $79 per month on an interest free payment plan!! Special benefits include a Meet-the-Team event, Herd Store discount, invitation to exclusive events, ticket exchange program, exclusive FanSaves deals, and a personal Ticket Account Executive. Visit bloomingtonbisonhockey.com or call (309) 965-HERD for more information.