Fan Vote Decides Mascot Name for Houston Bulls' Inaugural Season
The Houston Bulls, a brand‑new franchise in the North American Hockey League, are gearing up for their debut 2026‑27 campaign and have turned to their supporters for a crucial decision: the name of their on‑ice mascot.
After a nationwide social‑media campaign that attracted more than 1,500 creative suggestions, the organization has narrowed the field to three finalists — Brisket, Bullseye and Buzz. Fans can now cast their ballots across platforms including Twitter, Instagram and the team’s official website.
The move reflects a broader effort to embed the team in the Houston community. The Bulls are also preparing to open a state‑of‑the‑art arena in Richmond, Texas, this summer, a venue that will serve as the hub for the franchise’s operations and community events.
Jori Aventurado, a key figure in the team’s front office, emphasized that the mascot naming process is about more than branding; it’s about giving the city a symbol that resonates with local culture and the sport’s growing popularity in Texas.
The Houston Bulls’ relocation from Iowa marks the first professional hockey presence in the region since the Houston Aeros departed in 2013, a gap the franchise hopes to fill with an aggressive fan‑engagement strategy and a commitment to grassroots development.
Arena Opening Set for Summer 2026
The new Richmond arena, designed to accommodate 5,000 spectators, will host the Bulls’ inaugural home game in August 2026. The facility includes a community ice‑skating rink, youth hockey programs and a merchandise marketplace aimed at sustaining local interest beyond game night.
Team officials have indicated that the mascot’s name will be announced on social media shortly after the fan vote concludes, marking the final step before the franchise’s first competitive matchup.
With the combination of a fresh arena, an inclusive naming process and a clear connection to Houston’s sporting history, the Bulls are positioning themselves as a catalyst for revitalizing professional hockey in the Gulf Coast region.