News Summary
Augusta has received approval for a new ECHL expansion team, marking the return of professional hockey after nearly two decades. Set to begin play in October 2027, the team will operate from a new downtown arena under construction, holding 10,500 fans. Prominent figures like Tim Tebow are involved in revitalizing the local sports scene. Meanwhile, current season ticket deposits are being accepted, and community engagement is encouraged through a team-naming contest. This initiative is expected to strengthen community ties and invigorate Augusta’s economy.
Augusta has received official approval to establish a new ECHL (East Coast Hockey League) expansion team, marking the return of professional hockey to the city after nearly two decades. The team is set to begin play in October 2027, and will be based in a new downtown arena currently under construction. This facility is designed to accommodate 10,500 fans and is funded through a sales tax initiative.
Among the prominent figures behind this new franchise are Tim Tebow, former Heisman Trophy winner, and his business partner David Hodges. They are spearheading the effort to revitalize the local sports scene and stimulate community engagement. Current season ticket deposits are being accepted, and a public contest has been launched to name the team via AugustaProHockey.com.
The introduction of the new team will add to the state’s hockey landscape, providing Georgia with its third ECHL franchise, alongside the Atlanta Gladiators and the Savannah Ghost Pirates. The development is seen as an opportunity to foster youth talent in sports and contribute positively to the local community.
Mayor Garnett Johnson has emphasized that the reintroduction of professional hockey is part of a broader strategy to energize Augusta and enhance local economic conditions. The city’s officials are currently addressing a budget deficit nearing $11 million, adding another layer of importance to this endeavor.
The site for the new arena was previously home to the now-demolished James Brown Arena, which had hosted various sporting events, including the Augusta Lynx from 1998 to 2008 and the Augusta RiverHawks in the SPHL from 2010 to 2013. The new arena is projected to open in the spring of 2027 and aims to provide a first-class entertainment experience, as highlighted by ECHL Commissioner Ryan Crelin.
With the ECHL expanding its footprint to a total of 32 teams, equaling the NHL and AHL, Augusta’s participation marks a significant development for both the league and the community. The Augusta-Richmond County Coliseum Authority is currently involved in the naming rights discussion for the new arena, amidst public sentiment towards retaining the legacy of the James Brown name.
Overall, the new franchise aims to strengthen community ties by not only serving as a source of entertainment but also as a vehicle for social initiatives and youth engagement in sports. With the support of local residents and officials, the project is positioned to revitalize Augusta’s sports culture leading into the 2027 hockey season.
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HERE Resources
Augusta Welcomes New Expansion ECHL Hockey Team
Augusta Welcomes New ECHL Expansion Team
Augusta Prepares for the Return of Professional Hockey
Augusta, Georgia Welcomes New ECHL Expansion Team
Additional Resources
- Augusta Chronicle
- Wikipedia: East Coast Hockey League
- WJBF News
- Google Search: Augusta Hockey 2027
- ECHL News
- Google Scholar: Augusta Hockey team
- Atlanta Journal-Constitution
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Georgia Hockey
- WFXG News
- Google News: ECHL Augusta
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
