Professional hockey returns to Mobile with new SPHL franchise

Professional hockey returns to Mobile with new SPHL franchise

Sep 17th, 2025

Posted in: Press ReleaseMayorCity CouncilMobiles New Arena

PROFESSIONAL HOCKEY RETURNS
TO MOBILE WITH NEW SPHL FRANCHISE

Season ticket deposits open and "Name the Team"
contest launched ahead of 2027-28 inaugural season

MOBILE, Ala. (September 17, 2025) -- Professional hockey is officially returning to Mobile.

Zawyer Sports & Entertainment announced today that the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL) Board of Governors has approved the City's expansion application for admittance into the league. The new franchise, owned and operated by Zawyer Sports & Entertainment and led by CEO Andy Kaufmann, will debut at Mobile Arena for the 2027-28 season.

A "Name the Team" contest is now live at MobileProHockey.com, giving the community the chance to help create the team's identity. Season ticket deposits are being accepted for supporters to secure their place in history before the first puck drops.

"We are excited and proud to bring professional hockey back to Mobile," said Kaufmann. "We will aim to place a competitive team on the ice while also providing a fun, family-friendly product as we usher in this new era of hockey in the city's brand-new arena. We will also look forward to playing an active role in the community and will strive to make a positive impact in the region."

You can view a video that accompanied today's announcement, by clicking here.

The announcement marks the return of professional hockey to Mobile after a 22-year absence. The city was previously home to the Mobile Mysticks of the ECHL, who competed from 1995 through 2002. This expansion team will compete in the SPHL, which enters its 22nd season with 10 member teams throughout the southeastern and midwestern United States.

"I am extremely excited to welcome Mobile and Zawyer Sports to the SPHL," said SPHL Commissioner Doug Price. "Having gotten to know Andy over the last several years, he embodies not only a passion for hockey, but more importantly, a passion for the community, and he will be a tremendous addition to the SPHL."

Mobile's new team will play home games at Mobile Arena, currently under construction and set to open in early 2027. The 10,000-seat venue is designed for a wide variety of events and will feature luxury suites, VIP clubs, and unique touches that reflect Mobile's Mardi Gras traditions.

"This is a perfect fit for Mobile and Mobile Arena. Zawyer's teams have a strong track record of investing in the communities where they play, and I know Mobilians are eager to welcome professional hockey back with open arms," Mayor Sandy Stimpson said. "Alongside the top-tier concerts, shows, and events coming to this new facility, a hockey team gives our city something special - an opportunity to rally together and unite behind a team. We're thrilled about this partnership and what it means for Mobile."

Mobile Arena will serve as the cornerstone of a multi-million-dollar development that will transform downtown Mobile into a vibrant hub of sports, music, and cultural events. The City of Mobile is leading the project with support from public and private partners. OVG will manage Mobile Arena along with the Mobile Convention Center and the historic Saenger Theatre.

"The new arena is being built to deliver world-class entertainment, and welcoming professional hockey back is exactly the type of energy we envisioned when undertaking this project," said Peter Luukko, Co-Chair, Oak View Group. "OVG is proud to partner with Zawyer Sports and the City of Mobile to give fans unforgettable moments, both on and off the ice."

The new franchise will begin assembling its roster and front office ahead of the 2027-28 season. Additional details, including the team's name, ticketing information, and community initiatives, will be announced as the launch approaches. For more information regarding Mobile Pro Hockey, please head to the team's website or contact [email protected].

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About Zawyer Sports
Operating the day-to-day operations of the team will be Zawyer Sports & Entertainment. Zawyer Sports & Entertainment is a nationally recognized successful owner and operator of professional sports teams based in Jacksonville, Florida. Zawyer Sports currently owns and operates several professional hockey teams including the ECHL's Jacksonville Icemen, Savannah Ghost Pirates, Greensboro Gargoyles and the AHL's Charlotte Checkers. Zawyer Sports also operates and manages the Tahoe Knight Monsters (ECHL) and Augusta Pro Hockey (ECHL).

About the SPHL
Now in its 22nd season, the SPHL is comprised of 10 member teams located throughout the southeastern and midwestern United States. Headquartered in Huntersville, North Carolina, the mission of the SPHL is to provide a quality family-friendly entertainment product structured inside an economic model that is viable for small and mid-size markets and arenas.