The Iowa Heartlanders announced on Monday that the ECHL Board of Governors approved their voluntary suspension of operations for the 2026-2027 season. 

“This was an incredibly difficult decision that followed months of careful evaluation,” said Heartlanders owner Michael Devlin in a statement. “Despite significant efforts to stabilize and strengthen the organization, we concluded that stepping back for a season is the most responsible course while we review long-term solutions. As stewards of the franchise, we believe this step gives the organization the best opportunity to return on a stronger and more sustainable footing.”

Team president Matt Getz announced that he and the organization explored every possible option before ultimately deciding to suspend their operations for the upcoming season. 

“Ultimately, we believe this pause provides the organization the best opportunity to position the franchise for long-term success,” Getz said.

This decision comes after a 19-30 start from the Heartlanders with 18 games still left on the schedule, including eight at Xtream Arena.

The future is still unclear for the Landers, but the ECHL will “continue to work with the Heartlanders’ ownership group during the suspension period as the organization evaluates its future,” as stated in a press release. 

As for the Heartlander faithful, they will have to wait at least one season before seeing their team skate at Xtream Arena again.