Press Release: ECHL Expands with New Team in Rio Rancho, New Mexico
The ECHL has officially announced the approval of an expansion application for Rio Rancho, New Mexico, marking the addition of its 31st member team, set to begin play in the 2026-27 season. REV Entertainment’s Sports Management division will manage the team operations, with hockey operations support from the Dallas Stars.
REV Entertainment has a robust background in professional sports, currently managing two teams in the American Association of Professional Baseball and previously overseeing the ECHL’s Allen Americans. The official team name will be decided through a “Name the Team” contest open to fans at NMProHockey.com.
ECHL Commissioner Ryan Crelin welcomed REV Entertainment and New Mexico to the league, emphasizing the growth of professional hockey in North America and the importance of the New Mexico region in expanding the league’s reach.
REV Entertainment President Sean Decker expressed enthusiasm about returning professional hockey to New Mexico, highlighting the community’s historical connection to the sport and the potential for a strong local fanbase. The team will play at the Rio Rancho Events Center, a 7,000-seat venue with a history of hosting professional hockey.
Founded in 1988, the ECHL has grown from five teams to 29, boasting affiliations with 29 of the 32 NHL teams. The inclusion of the new team in Rio Rancho signifies a strategic move to enhance the league’s presence and rivalry dynamics within the Mountain Division.
For more information on the ECHL and updates regarding the new team, interested fans can visit ECHL.com and NMProHockey.com.
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