Introducing the New Mexico Goatheads

September 29, 2025 - Professional hockey has officially returned to New Mexico with the unveiling of the New Mexico Goatheads, the state's new ECHL franchise set to begin play in the 2026-27 season. 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... Full Story

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OurSports Central provides coverage of the following alternative and minor league teams in Rio Rancho, New Mexico:

• New Mexico Goatheads * (ECHL)

Other cities near Rio Rancho, New Mexico with alternative or minor league teams:

• Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Santa Fe, New Mexico

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• New Mexico Goatheads chosen as name of state's new pro hockey team - ECHL KOBTV (September 30)
• New Mexico Goatheads: Rio Rancho pro hockey team team unveils name, logo - ECHL Albuquerque Journal (September 30)
• New Mexico Goatheads Ready to Butt Heads With Rest of ECHL After Name, Logo Reveal - ECHL Sports Logos Net News (September 29)
• ECHL Expansion Team To Be Called New Mexico Goatheads - ECHL FloHockey (September 29)
• New Mexico Pro Hockey Club announces nickname finalists: Cutthroats, Goatheads or Tarantula Hawks - ECHL Albuquerque Journal (June 20)
• 'A really compelling opportunity': Plans for ECHL's New Mexico Hockey Club unveiled - ECHL Albuquerque Journal (May 7)
• Rio Rancho hockey team to take to the ice in 2026-27 - ECHL Rio Rancho Observer (May 3)
• ECHL Announces Expansion Into New Mexico - ECHL The Hockey News (May 3)
• ECHL approves pro hockey team in Rio Rancho - ECHL KRQE (May 3)
• Pro Hockey Team Coming To New Mexico In 2026-27 As ECHL Announces Expansion - ECHL FloHockey (May 3)
• Ice Chips: ECHL approves expansion franchise in New Mexico - ECHL Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (May 2)
• Pro hockey is coming back to New Mexico; here's what to know about the club starting play next year - ECHL Albuquerque Journal (May 2)
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