ECHL hockey league announces expansion team for Bloomington

Posted on January 17, 2024

*The Bloomington team, which will be named later, will begin play in October 2024 at Grossinger Motors Arena. (Photo courtesy Facebook/Central Illinois Flying Aces)*

By WJBC Staff

BLOOMINGTON – A new professional hockey team is coming to the City of Bloomington.

According to a news release, the ECHL has approved an expansion team for Bloomington to join the league starting in the 2024-25 season.

The ECHL is a mid-level professional ice hockey league based in New Jersey with teams scattered across the United States and Canada.

The Bloomington team, which will be named at a later date, will be owned and operated by Hallett Sports & Entertainment.

“I am extremely excited to bring professional hockey to Bloomington and watch the sport as well as the community grow through this expansion,” said Indy Fuel Owner & Chairman Jim Hallett. “I am honored to be part of this group helping expand the growth of ECHL hockey throughout North America and bring a positive sporting experience to the city of Bloomington.”

The Bloomington team will begin play in October 2024 at Grossinger Motors Arena.

“The ECHL is thrilled to welcome Bloomington, Illinois into the league and rejuvenate professional hockey in the market as the League’s 30th member,” said ECHL Commissioner, Ryan Crelin. “Bloomington is a natural geographical rival for our teams in the Central Division, and Hallett Sports has shown a commitment to the communities they serve in growing the game and fan experience, which makes puck drop in 2024-25 very exciting for next season.”

More information about the team will be released during a press conference at Grossinger Motors Arena on Wednesday, Jan. 24 at 10:30 a.m.

WJBC News can be reached at [email protected]

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