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The new Classic City Arena is scheduled for completion shortly before the yet-to-be-named Athens pro hockey team plays its inaugural game Oct. 26 as a member of the professional Federal Prospects Hockey League. IAN TOCHER/Staff -
FPHL President Don Kirnan said he’s looking forward to “the Battle of Georgia,” between Columbus and the new Athens team. IAN TOCHER/Staff -
APH Executive VP Scott Hull was clearly enthusiastic about bringing pro hockey to Athens in a brand-new venue. IAN TOCHER/Staff -
The FPHL is known for tough, rugged, aggressive play and should be well suited for Southern fans raised on loving UGA football. IAN TOCHER/Staff
Professional ice hockey is coming soon to Athens, with a brand-new team set to begin play this October in an arena still under construction as part of The Classic Center.
“I know a lot of you have been waiting for this moment and the time has arrived. We are proud to announce our affiliation with the Federal Prospects Hockey League,” Athens Professional Hockey (APH) Executive Vice President Scott Hull revealed during a press conference held in The Classic Center atrium last Thursday.
With teams located from Michigan to Mississippi and New York to Louisiana, the addition of Athens will make an even dozen FPHL teams. The current league-leading Columbus River Dragons are expected to quickly develop a cross-state rivalry with the new team in Athens.
“It’s my opinion with this new team and knowing the people that are operating this team, the battle for the leading team in the league is probably going to be in Georgia,” FPHL President Don Kirnan predicted.
“We believe that the type of entertainment we have, it’s fast, it’s enjoyable to watch. It’s physical, definitely something where the AHL and the NHL have four officials and the FPHL, we need four officials,” Kirnan said. “It’s going to be a lot of hitting; there’s going to be a lot of speed; there’s going to be a lot of different things; and it’s going to be fun to watch.”
Hull announced the team will open its FPHL season on Oct. 26 as the first official public event held at the new Classic Center Arena, though an opponent is yet to be determined.
Also unknown so far is the new team’s name, although the options have been narrowed down to four: The Athenians, Rock Lobsters, Athens Owls, or Classic City Panic. Social media-based voting is expected to soon determine the winner.
“We’re going to put an exciting product on the ice and win a lot of games, but we take great pride in being involved with the community,” Hull said. “As we get going, you will see me, our front office, our coaches, our players, all being involved with everything we can here in Athens and the surrounding communities.”
Call 706-357-4471 or visit online at athensprohockey.com to sign up for a team newsletter or purchase season tickets.