Professional hockey will soon find a new home in Augusta, Georgia, as Augusta Pro Hockey prepares to launch its inaugural season in the ECHL during the fall of 2027. The franchise will call the state‑of‑the‑art Augusta Arena its battleground, a venue designed to deliver an intimate yet vibrant experience for fans.
Unveiling the Brand
A name‑and‑logo reveal ceremony is scheduled for Tuesday at the Augusta Convention Center, where doors will open at 5:30 p.m. and the official unveiling will run from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The event promises to showcase the team's identity and foster early community engagement.
The franchise will be co‑owned by Tim Tebow and David Hodges, whose partnership brings a blend of entrepreneurial vision and local commitment to the project. Augusta Pro Hockey will operate as an official affiliate of both the National Hockey League and the American Hockey League, positioning it within the broader development pathway that has historically funneled talent into the NHL.
A Growing League
Founded in 1988‑89 with just five teams scattered across four states, the ECHL has evolved into a 30‑team strong circuit spanning 23 U.S. states and one Canadian province. In the 2024‑25 season, the league enjoyed affiliations with 29 of the NHL’s 32 clubs, and 768 alumni have progressed to the NHL, including 16 players who made their debuts this past season.
Augusta Pro Hockey will play a 36‑game regular‑season schedule on home ice, contributing to the league’s expanding footprint while offering local fans a steady stream of high‑level competition. The team's integration into the ECHL’s development system underscores its role as a nurturing ground for future NHL stars.