Founded in 1975 as the Canadian Major Junior Hockey League, the CHL consists of 3 leagues (Ontario Hockey League, Western Hockey League, and Quebec Major Junior Hockey League) with around 20 teams in each. They are considered the pinnacle of youth hockey not only in Canada but throughout the world. The players of these leagues receive the status of professional athletes and do not pay membership fees for the right to play in the league. League teams provide players with everything necessary – uniforms, clubs, accommodation, and meals, and also cover all related expenses of athletes. These leagues feature players between the ages of 16 and 20 (with the rare exception of local talent).