TORONTO - A class action lawsuit has been launched against the Canadian Hockey League seeking financial compensation for allegedly underpaid players.

The suit claims the players are paid less than the minimum wage in their regions and that they should also get holiday, overtime and vacation pay.

The lawsuit alleges the average OHL player devotes 35 to 40 hours per week to his team and receives $50 a week.

Toronto lawyer Ted Charney says the lawsuit seeks to hold the CHL and its teams accountable.

The CHL is the umbrella organization of the Western, Ontario and Quebec major junior hockey leagues.

There are 60 teams in the CHL stretching from Victoria to Halifax. The players range in age from 16 to 20.