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In the past there has been a more strict farm system in place, where changes between clubs where very simple.
Today, tight affiliations are the exception. Probably the closest thing to a NHL/AHl-like system is Adler Mannheim (DEL) and Heilbronner Falken (2nd tier), who have a very firm cooperation since 2004. Another example is Eisbaeren Berlin and Eisloewen Dresden. Sharks' draftee Dominik Bielke has been temporarily moved from Berlin to Dresden within this cooperation to give him sufficient ice-time. Most teams in the three upper tiers have some sort of more or less loose partnerships.
The technical part of the cooperations is handled via a construction called "Förderlizenz", a concept that allows a player younger than 25years to move without major restrictions between the two levels. Players are not being placed on waivers, so no other team can grab a talent for free. After January 31, any player this kind of double playing permit is only allowed to lace up for the lower club if he has previously appeared in at least ten games down on the "farm". In reality, there is not to much movement between the levels, however short term call ups occur.
The youth development programs within the club organizations are the backbone of the system. Many major clubs ice teams on an national level in all age groups, with the Deutsche Nachwuchsliga DNL (German Prospect League), which cover players up to the age of 18 years. There exists Juniorenbundesliga (Junior League) for the elder prospects, but the most talented youngsters usually move directly from DNL to the pro ranks.
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