New Hockey Team Coming to Rome NY, Name Ideas Needed

A New Era of Hockey Coming to Rome

Rome is officially getting a new team to cheer for.

A semi-professional hockey franchise is set to hit the ice in Fall 2026 as part of the American Premier Hockey League (APHL), and they’ll call the historic John F. Kennedy Arena home.

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Big League Experience Behind the Bench

The team will be owned and operated by Milliken Sports Group, led by veteran hockey executive Jimmy Milliken.

He’s no stranger to the game, with experience in pro hockey operations including his time with the Blue Ridge Bobcats in the FPHL and helping launch the Binghamton Black Bears’ inaugural season.

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“We’ve seen firsthand how a hockey team can bring a community together, create lasting memories, and spark excitement across an entire region,” Miliken said. “We want to bring that same energy to Rome and build something people can really be proud of.”

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Building a Team—and an Identity—With the Community

On the ice, the roster will feature a mix of former pro players, college athletes, and top junior hockey talent, all competing in a developmental league designed to help players move up the professional ranks.

Off the ice, fans will have just as big a role to play.

Milliken says the team’s identity will be shaped with the community in mind, including a “Name the Team” contest where fans help decide everything from the name to the brand.

Send your name suggestions to aphl.hockey.