What's New for the Phantoms and PPL Center in 2025-26
AHL Lehigh Valley Phantoms

What's New for the Phantoms and PPL Center in 2025-26

Published on October 3, 2025 under American Hockey League (AHL)
Lehigh Valley Phantoms News Release


Lehigh Valley, PA - After a busy offseason filled with new and exciting additions both on the ice and throughout the arena, the Phantoms are eager to welcome fans back to PPL Center when they kick off another memorable year of hockey in the Lehigh Valley this October.

From upgraded amenities to fresh faces in the locker room, the 2025-26 season marks a thrilling new chapter in the team and arena's history since first moving to Lehigh Valley twelve years ago.

The moment fans first arrive at PPL Center this season, they'll be welcomed by an updated outdoor Marquee located outside the WFMZ Gate entrance at the corner of 7th and Hamilton Street, greeting them with dynamic visuals and event information each gameday.

Inside, the brand-new state-of-the-art Videoboard above center ice illuminates the arena bowl, bringing fans closer to the action with crisp visuals and a more immersive experience. Featuring a signature "edgeless" design and an LED surface almost 30% larger and twice the clarity of its original predecessor, the videoboard transforms the atmosphere and ensures a premium view from any vantage point.

Adding to the new in-game look, newly-updated fascia Ribbon Boards surrounding the lower bowl will complement the centerpiece design, delivering real-time statistics and dynamic graphics.

Additionally, enhancements to the arena's Sound System will provide a clearer, more powerful audio experience that elevates the gameday environment.

Along with the cutting-edge displays, upgraded technology in the team's control room will allow for a more seamless, polished, and fan-friendly presentation style. The next-generation presentation raises the bar by incorporating interactive in-game features and unique fan-driven elements that will create an immersive experience for all in attendance.

Online, fans can explore the Phantoms' redesigned Website introducing a fan-friendly and visually appealing interface, making it easier than ever to purchase tickets, stay up-to-date on team news, and access exclusive team video content.

Beyond the tech upgrades, guests will notice expanded concession options on the gameday menu along with updated beverage selections now featuring Pepsi products.

The Phan Shop will also be offering new merchandise featuring select designer golf-wear brands such as Peter Millar, Vineyard Vines, and TravisMathew as well as other items from '47, CCM, and more.

As for the team itself, the Phantoms will have a fresh look behind the bench this upcoming season with the welcoming of new Head Coach John Snowden.

Named the fourth head coach in Lehigh Valley history this past July, Snowden previously spent the last two seasons as an assistant coach with the Phantoms, working closely with the team's forwards and power play. He now takes on a larger role in developing the team's incoming prospects while preparing them for the next stage of their careers in the Flyers system.

Prior to joining the Phantoms, the Everett, Washington native was an assistant coach with the Toronto Marlies and had stints coaching in the ECHL, winning a Kelly Cup Championship with the Newfoundland Growlers. His high-tempo and high-energy offensive coaching style will be an exciting and entertaining brand of hockey to watch as it takes shape on the ice.

Fans can also look forward to a lineup of new Theme Nights and Promotions as part of an action-packed home schedule.

Gritty Night on November 29 enhances the popular Flyers Affiliation Night as the beloved Flyers mascot reunites with meLVin for a game of mascot mayhem and excitement.

On Saturday, December 6, meLVin's Holiday Party ushers in the holiday spirit throughout the concourse with festive activities, while the first 2,500 children ages 14 and under will receive a meLVin Youth Knit Hat, presented by Lehigh Valley Reilly Children's Hospital, now part of Jefferson Health.

The holiday fun continues with the annual New Year's Eve game, which will feature a special new family-friendly start time of 3 PM, allowing fans of all ages to ring in the New Year with Phantoms hockey.

Later, the race to the gold comes alive for Winter Games Weekend on February 14 and 15, bringing a touch of international flair to PPL Center. During the weekend-long celebration, the Phantoms players will don specialty warm-up jerseys as a tribute to the world's best athletes competing on the international stage. Among those celebrated will be Phantoms and Flyers forward Rodrigo Ābols, who has already been selected to represent Latvia in the global games this February.Don't miss your chance to experience all of the PPL Center upgrades and more! The excitement officially begins with Opening Night on October 11 against the Belleville Senators including a Rally Towel giveaway and the first-ever fan interactive pregame lightshow. Opening Weekend continues on Sunday, October 12 against the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins featuring Phantoms Trading Card sets.

Check out the Lehigh Valley Phantoms Statistics

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American Hockey League Stories from October 3, 2025


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