The 1988–89 English Hockey League season took place from October 1988 until April 1989. A new league format was introduced to English hockey whereby two divisions of sixteen teams would compete in the first and second divisions with promotion and relegation. This replaced the previous format of regional leagues. The Men's National League attracted a sponsor in Poundstretcher and they would commit £300,000 over three years. The inaugural competition was won by Southgate and the top four teams qualified to take part in the Poundstretcher League Cup tournament which was won by Hounslow.