ECHL Expansion Team To Be Called New Mexico Goatheads
ECHL Expansion Team To Be Called New Mexico Goatheads
The New Mexico Goatheads will be coming to an ECHL rink near you in 2026-27 as the newest franchise has settled on its name.
The New Mexico Goatheads will be bucking their way into the ECHL next fall as the Rio Rancho, New Mexico based expansion team has landed on its name.
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The new team will drop the puck starting in 2026-27 as pro hockey returns to New Mexico for the first time since 2009 when the New Mexico Scorpions were playing in the now defunct Central Hockey League.
Here is what the team had to say about why they will be called the Goatheads:
“The Goatheads name and identity pay tribute to both the region’s rugged character and its unique natural landscape. The brand draws inspiration from the infamous goathead thorn, a hardy desert plant known for its toughness and ability to 'stick' wherever it goes, a perfect symbol for a team built to leave its mark. The logo also incorporates the strength and grit of the ibex goats found in the Florida Mountains of southern New Mexico, combining local culture with bold design.”
Introducing the New Mexico Goatheads. 🐐
— New Mexico Goatheads (@NMGoatheads) September 30, 2025
Born of the desert. Built to endure. Known for sticking wherever it goes.
Learn more about our new name and secure your seat for the 2026-27 season at https://t.co/FrBecLkri8 pic.twitter.com/hAJGlwXD4O
The team’s colors will be desert red, sand and Rio Grande blue.
“This brand represents New Mexico’s toughness, pride, and resilience,” said General Manager Jared Johnson said in a statement. “We wanted something authentic to our community, and we believe the Goatheads are a team and a symbol fans across the state can rally behind.”
The team is owned by Rev Entertainment, which had previously owned the Allen Americans in the ECHL.
Before naming the team, the organization held a “Name The Team” contest that they said drew more than 2,000 responses.
Goatheads beat out two other finalists including Cutthroats and Tarantula Hawks.
The New Mexico team will be the 31st ECHL club when they open play next season, with a 32nd team being added to Augusta, Ga., the following season. That will bring the ECHL even with its affiliate leagues, the AHL and NHL, in terms of total franchises.
The 2025-26 ECHL season begins Oct. 17 on FloHockey.
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