HOWLINGS

News on Professional and College Hockey

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NHL 2026 HOCKEY HOF MEDIA AWARD WINNERS

2026 HOCKEY HALL OF FAME NHL MEDIA AWARD RECIPIENTS ANNOUNCED

 Gunnar Nordstrom to receive the Elmer Ferguson Memorial Award and Chris Chuthbert to receive the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award

By: Kelly Masse, Hockey HOF

TORONTO (June 3, 2026) ­– Eric Duhatschek, Member of the Professional Hockey Writers’ Association, and Chuck Kaiton, President of the NHL Broadcasters’ Association, announced today that Gunnar Nordstrom will receive the Elmer Ferguson Memorial Award for excellence in hockey journalism, and Chris Cuthbert will receive the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award for outstanding contributions as a hockey broadcaster.

For more than 40 years hockey fans in Sweden have turned to Gunnar Nordstrom for NHL news. As a hockey writer and US correspondent for Expressen, a national daily based in Stockholm, Nordstrom has documented the careers of generations of Swedish NHL stars, from Anders Hedberg to Peter Forsberg to Victor Hedman. In addition to covering six Winter Olympic Games and four Canada Cup tournaments, the native of Örnsköldsvik has authored and co-authored several books, including a series of hockey novels for young readers and the biography, “Nicklas Lidstrom: The Pursuit of Perfection”.

“Gunnar Nordstrom has been the most influential hockey writer in Sweden for almost half a century and has earned the respect of generations of players and readers alike in that time,” said Eric Duhatschek, the 2001 Elmer Ferguson winner. “There can be no worthier choice for the first Elmer Ferguson winner outside of North America than Gunnar Nordstrom.”

Chris Cuthbert began his hockey broadcasting career as the radio voice of the Queen’s University Golden Gaels in the late 1970s. After further honing his craft with the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League’s Yorkton Terriers, Cuthbert made the switch to television and has become one of the most recognized voices in hockey. The Brampton, Ontario native has been calling games for CBC Hockey Night in Canada, TSN and Rogers Sportsnet for more than 40 years, and is the recipient of three Gemini and two Canadian

Screen awards. Cuthbert’s iconic call of the Golden Goal at the Vancouver 2010 Olympics further cemented his place in the hearts of Canadian hockey fans.

"Chris Cuthbert has been a true professional and a wonderful link to hockey fans for many years”, said Kaiton. “His exciting play-by-play has captivated audiences across Canada. He is well deserving of this award, and I look forward to presenting it to him in November.”

Nordstrom and Cuthbert will receive their awards at the Hockey Hall of Fame NHL Media Awards Luncheon in Toronto on Monday, November 9, 2026, and their award plaques will be displayed in the Esso Great Hall at the Hockey Hall of Fame alongside past award recipients.

Recipients of these awards, as selected by their respective associations, are recognized by the Hockey Hall of Fame as “Media Honourees” - a separate distinction from individuals inducted as “Honoured Members.” Honoured Members are selected by the Hockey Hall of Fame Selection Committee.

The 2026 Hockey Hall of Fame Induction Weekend begins on Saturday, November 7, 2026, culminating with the Induction Celebration on Monday, November 9, 2026. This year’s inductees will be announced live on TSN on Tuesday, June 22, 2026.

Named in honour of the late Montreal newspaper reporter, the Elmer Ferguson Memorial Award was first presented in 1984 by the Professional Hockey Writers’ Association in recognition of distinguished members of the hockey writing profession whose words have brought honour to journalism and to the game of hockey.

Named in honour of the late “Voice of Hockey” in Canada, the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award was first presented in 1984 by the NHL Broadcasters’ Association in recognition of members of the radio and television industry who have made outstanding contributions to their profession and to the game of hockey.

HOCKEY HALL OF FAME HOWLINGS

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NHL 2026 HOCKEY HOF MEDIA AWARD WINNERS 2026 HOCKEY HALL OF FAME NHL MEDIA AWARD RECIPIENTS ANNOUNCED  Gunnar Nordstrom to receive the Elmer Ferguson Memorial Award and Chris Chuthbert to receive the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award…...

NHL 2026 HOCKEY HOF MEDIA AWARD WINNERS

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BISON COMMUNITY IMPACT DEEPENS

BLOOMINGTON BISON COMMUNITY IMPACT DEEPENS IN SECOND SEASON

By: Erik Konwinski, Bloomington Bison

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – The Bloomington Bison hockey team continued to cement itself as a community asset during the 2025-2026 season through brand new initiatives to promote children’s literacy, regularly attending youth hockey practices and parades, volunteering at non-profit organizations and raising over $130,000 for charitable causes.

Dedication to service remains a staple for the Bison both during the season and offseason, marking a year-round focus of the team.

Recently, Bloomington pledged to donate $50,000 to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital after local Fire Chief Cory Matheny won the Sam Leman Shoot the Puck Contest during the intermission of a Bison playoff game by scoring into a small opening in the net from center ice.

Over the course of the season, the Bison and the Hallett Sports Foundation raised over $80,000 through post-game jersey auctions and made additional contributions to LifeLong Access’s “A D’Vine Affair,” The Baby Fold’s Festival of Trees, McLean County Chamber’s Annual Gala, McLean County’s Unit District No. 5, Special Olympics Illinois and more.

The Bison were nominated for the McLean County Chamber of Commerce’s best new business award due to their efforts.

Over 6,000 students earned free tickets to a Bison game last season by achieving their reading goals in the Stick 2 Reading program in partnership with Jimmy John’s. More than 40 schools participated in the inaugural year of the initiative, which also rewarded select groups with a visit from mascot Abe, Bison players and staff.

In addition to scholastic outreach efforts, players and coaches visited multiple hockey practices and supported all age groups of Bloomington Youth Hockey Association during the season. Donations from the second annual teddy bear toss benefited Carle Health Hospital, the Boys and Girls Club, Easterseals Central Illinois and countless other organizations.

For a second-straight season, the front office, hockey operations staff and players dedicated time to package cereal at the Midwest Food Bank. They packaged over 3,000 bags for families in need. Including youth practices, school appearances and non-profit visits, the team averaged at least one service opportunity a week during the sophomore campaign.

Even as another season on the ice has come and gone, the Bison’s commitment to serving Bloomington/Normal as a community asset remains strong through widely accessible appearances in the summer.

In the coming months, the Bison will continue their summer traditions of participating in farmers markets, local concert series, corporate partner events and parades.

While Opening Night 2026 is 143 days away, the Bloomington Bison will continue to ingrain themselves as a staple of the community and serve the Bloomington/Normal area over the offseason.

Visit bloomingtonbisonhockey.com for community impact inquiries. 2026-27 Full Season Memberships are available for as low as $72 per month on an interest free payment plan!! Special benefits include a Meet-the-Team event, Herd Store discount, invitation to exclusive events, ticket exchange program, exclusive FanSaves deals, and a personal Ticket Account Executive. Visit bloomingtonbisonhockey.com or call (309) 965-HERD for more information.

BLOOMINGTON BISON HOWLINGS

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BISON COMMUNITY IMPACT DEEPENS

BLOOMINGTON BISON COMMUNITY IMPACT DEEPENS IN SECOND SEASON

By: Erik Konwinski, Bloomington Bison

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – The Bloomington Bison hockey team continued to cement itself as a community asset during the 2025-2026 season through brand new initiatives to promote children’s literacy, regularly attending youth hockey practices and parades, volunteering at non-profit organizations and raising over $130,000 for charitable causes.

Dedication to service remains a staple for the Bison both during the season and offseason, marking a year-round focus of the team.

Recently, Bloomington pledged to donate $50,000 to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital after local Fire Chief Cory Matheny won the Sam Leman Shoot the Puck Contest during the intermission of a Bison playoff game by scoring into a small opening in the net from center ice.

Over the course of the season, the Bison and the Hallett Sports Foundation raised over $80,000 through post-game jersey auctions and made additional contributions to LifeLong Access’s “A D’Vine Affair,” The Baby Fold’s Festival of Trees, McLean County Chamber’s Annual Gala, McLean County’s Unit District No. 5, Special Olympics Illinois and more.

The Bison were nominated for the McLean County Chamber of Commerce’s best new business award due to their efforts.

Over 6,000 students earned free tickets to a Bison game last season by achieving their reading goals in the Stick 2 Reading program in partnership with Jimmy John’s. More than 40 schools participated in the inaugural year of the initiative, which also rewarded select groups with a visit from mascot Abe, Bison players and staff.

In addition to scholastic outreach efforts, players and coaches visited multiple hockey practices and supported all age groups of Bloomington Youth Hockey Association during the season. Donations from the second annual teddy bear toss benefited Carle Health Hospital, the Boys and Girls Club, Easterseals Central Illinois and countless other organizations.

For a second-straight season, the front office, hockey operations staff and players dedicated time to package cereal at the Midwest Food Bank. They packaged over 3,000 bags for families in need. Including youth practices, school appearances and non-profit visits, the team averaged at least one service opportunity a week during the sophomore campaign.

Even as another season on the ice has come and gone, the Bison’s commitment to serving Bloomington/Normal as a community asset remains strong through widely accessible appearances in the summer.

In the coming months, the Bison will continue their summer traditions of participating in farmers markets, local concert series, corporate partner events and parades.

While Opening Night 2026 is 143 days away, the Bloomington Bison will continue to ingrain themselves as a staple of the community and serve the Bloomington/Normal area over the offseason.

Visit bloomingtonbisonhockey.com for community impact inquiries. 2026-27 Full Season Memberships are available for as low as $72 per month on an interest free payment plan!! Special benefits include a Meet-the-Team event, Herd Store discount, invitation to exclusive events, ticket exchange program, exclusive FanSaves deals, and a personal Ticket Account Executive. Visit bloomingtonbisonhockey.com or call (309) 965-HERD for more information.

BLOOMINGTON BISON HOWLINGS

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BISON COMMUNITY IMPACT DEEPENS

BLOOMINGTON BISON COMMUNITY IMPACT DEEPENS IN SECOND SEASON

By: Erik Konwinski, Bloomington Bison

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – The Bloomington Bison hockey team continued to cement itself as a community asset during the 2025-2026 season through brand new initiatives to promote children’s literacy, regularly attending youth hockey practices and parades, volunteering at non-profit organizations and raising over $130,000 for charitable causes.

Dedication to service remains a staple for the Bison both during the season and offseason, marking a year-round focus of the team.

Recently, Bloomington pledged to donate $50,000 to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital after local Fire Chief Cory Matheny won the Sam Leman Shoot the Puck Contest during the intermission of a Bison playoff game by scoring into a small opening in the net from center ice.

Over the course of the season, the Bison and the Hallett Sports Foundation raised over $80,000 through post-game jersey auctions and made additional contributions to LifeLong Access’s “A D’Vine Affair,” The Baby Fold’s Festival of Trees, McLean County Chamber’s Annual Gala, McLean County’s Unit District No. 5, Special Olympics Illinois and more.

The Bison were nominated for the McLean County Chamber of Commerce’s best new business award due to their efforts.

Over 6,000 students earned free tickets to a Bison game last season by achieving their reading goals in the Stick 2 Reading program in partnership with Jimmy John’s. More than 40 schools participated in the inaugural year of the initiative, which also rewarded select groups with a visit from mascot Abe, Bison players and staff.

In addition to scholastic outreach efforts, players and coaches visited multiple hockey practices and supported all age groups of Bloomington Youth Hockey Association during the season. Donations from the second annual teddy bear toss benefited Carle Health Hospital, the Boys and Girls Club, Easterseals Central Illinois and countless other organizations.

For a second-straight season, the front office, hockey operations staff and players dedicated time to package cereal at the Midwest Food Bank. They packaged over 3,000 bags for families in need. Including youth practices, school appearances and non-profit visits, the team averaged at least one service opportunity a week during the sophomore campaign.

Even as another season on the ice has come and gone, the Bison’s commitment to serving Bloomington/Normal as a community asset remains strong through widely accessible appearances in the summer.

In the coming months, the Bison will continue their summer traditions of participating in farmers markets, local concert series, corporate partner events and parades.

While Opening Night 2026 is 143 days away, the Bloomington Bison will continue to ingrain themselves as a staple of the community and serve the Bloomington/Normal area over the offseason.

Visit bloomingtonbisonhockey.com for community impact inquiries. 2026-27 Full Season Memberships are available for as low as $72 per month on an interest free payment plan!! Special benefits include a Meet-the-Team event, Herd Store discount, invitation to exclusive events, ticket exchange program, exclusive FanSaves deals, and a personal Ticket Account Executive. Visit bloomingtonbisonhockey.com or call (309) 965-HERD for more information.

BLOOMINGTON BISON HOWLINGS

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BISON COMMUNITY IMPACT DEEPENS

BLOOMINGTON BISON COMMUNITY IMPACT DEEPENS IN SECOND SEASON

By: Erik Konwinski, Bloomington Bison

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – The Bloomington Bison hockey team continued to cement itself as a community asset during the 2025-2026 season through brand new initiatives to promote children’s literacy, regularly attending youth hockey practices and parades, volunteering at non-profit organizations and raising over $130,000 for charitable causes.

Dedication to service remains a staple for the Bison both during the season and offseason, marking a year-round focus of the team.

Recently, Bloomington pledged to donate $50,000 to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital after local Fire Chief Cory Matheny won the Sam Leman Shoot the Puck Contest during the intermission of a Bison playoff game by scoring into a small opening in the net from center ice.

Over the course of the season, the Bison and the Hallett Sports Foundation raised over $80,000 through post-game jersey auctions and made additional contributions to LifeLong Access’s “A D’Vine Affair,” The Baby Fold’s Festival of Trees, McLean County Chamber’s Annual Gala, McLean County’s Unit District No. 5, Special Olympics Illinois and more.

The Bison were nominated for the McLean County Chamber of Commerce’s best new business award due to their efforts.

Over 6,000 students earned free tickets to a Bison game last season by achieving their reading goals in the Stick 2 Reading program in partnership with Jimmy John’s. More than 40 schools participated in the inaugural year of the initiative, which also rewarded select groups with a visit from mascot Abe, Bison players and staff.

In addition to scholastic outreach efforts, players and coaches visited multiple hockey practices and supported all age groups of Bloomington Youth Hockey Association during the season. Donations from the second annual teddy bear toss benefited Carle Health Hospital, the Boys and Girls Club, Easterseals Central Illinois and countless other organizations.

For a second-straight season, the front office, hockey operations staff and players dedicated time to package cereal at the Midwest Food Bank. They packaged over 3,000 bags for families in need. Including youth practices, school appearances and non-profit visits, the team averaged at least one service opportunity a week during the sophomore campaign.

Even as another season on the ice has come and gone, the Bison’s commitment to serving Bloomington/Normal as a community asset remains strong through widely accessible appearances in the summer.

In the coming months, the Bison will continue their summer traditions of participating in farmers markets, local concert series, corporate partner events and parades.

While Opening Night 2026 is 143 days away, the Bloomington Bison will continue to ingrain themselves as a staple of the community and serve the Bloomington/Normal area over the offseason.

Visit bloomingtonbisonhockey.com for community impact inquiries. 2026-27 Full Season Memberships are available for as low as $72 per month on an interest free payment plan!! Special benefits include a Meet-the-Team event, Herd Store discount, invitation to exclusive events, ticket exchange program, exclusive FanSaves deals, and a personal Ticket Account Executive. Visit bloomingtonbisonhockey.com or call (309) 965-HERD for more information.

BLOOMINGTON BISON HOWLINGS

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BISON COMMUNITY IMPACT DEEPENS

BLOOMINGTON BISON COMMUNITY IMPACT DEEPENS IN SECOND SEASON

By: Erik Konwinski, Bloomington Bison

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – The Bloomington Bison hockey team continued to cement itself as a community asset during the 2025-2026 season through brand new initiatives to promote children’s literacy, regularly attending youth hockey practices and parades, volunteering at non-profit organizations and raising over $130,000 for charitable causes.

Dedication to service remains a staple for the Bison both during the season and offseason, marking a year-round focus of the team.

Recently, Bloomington pledged to donate $50,000 to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital after local Fire Chief Cory Matheny won the Sam Leman Shoot the Puck Contest during the intermission of a Bison playoff game by scoring into a small opening in the net from center ice.

Over the course of the season, the Bison and the Hallett Sports Foundation raised over $80,000 through post-game jersey auctions and made additional contributions to LifeLong Access’s “A D’Vine Affair,” The Baby Fold’s Festival of Trees, McLean County Chamber’s Annual Gala, McLean County’s Unit District No. 5, Special Olympics Illinois and more.

The Bison were nominated for the McLean County Chamber of Commerce’s best new business award due to their efforts.

Over 6,000 students earned free tickets to a Bison game last season by achieving their reading goals in the Stick 2 Reading program in partnership with Jimmy John’s. More than 40 schools participated in the inaugural year of the initiative, which also rewarded select groups with a visit from mascot Abe, Bison players and staff.

In addition to scholastic outreach efforts, players and coaches visited multiple hockey practices and supported all age groups of Bloomington Youth Hockey Association during the season. Donations from the second annual teddy bear toss benefited Carle Health Hospital, the Boys and Girls Club, Easterseals Central Illinois and countless other organizations.

For a second-straight season, the front office, hockey operations staff and players dedicated time to package cereal at the Midwest Food Bank. They packaged over 3,000 bags for families in need. Including youth practices, school appearances and non-profit visits, the team averaged at least one service opportunity a week during the sophomore campaign.

Even as another season on the ice has come and gone, the Bison’s commitment to serving Bloomington/Normal as a community asset remains strong through widely accessible appearances in the summer.

In the coming months, the Bison will continue their summer traditions of participating in farmers markets, local concert series, corporate partner events and parades.

While Opening Night 2026 is 143 days away, the Bloomington Bison will continue to ingrain themselves as a staple of the community and serve the Bloomington/Normal area over the offseason.

Visit bloomingtonbisonhockey.com for community impact inquiries. 2026-27 Full Season Memberships are available for as low as $72 per month on an interest free payment plan!! Special benefits include a Meet-the-Team event, Herd Store discount, invitation to exclusive events, ticket exchange program, exclusive FanSaves deals, and a personal Ticket Account Executive. Visit bloomingtonbisonhockey.com or call (309) 965-HERD for more information.

BLOOMINGTON BISON HOWLINGS

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BISON COMMUNITY IMPACT DEEPENS

BLOOMINGTON BISON COMMUNITY IMPACT DEEPENS IN SECOND SEASON By: Erik Konwinski, Bloomington Bison BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – The Bloomington Bison hockey team continued to cement itself as a community asset during the 2025-2026 season through brand new initiatives to promote children’s literacy, regularly attending youth hockey practices and parades, volunteering at non-profit organizations and raising…

BISON COMMUNITY IMPACT DEEPENS

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BISON ANNOUNCE 26-27 SEASON SCHEDULE

BISON ANNOUNCE FULL 2026-27 SEASON SCHEDULE

By: Erik Konwinski, Bloomington Bison

Bloomington, IL – Bloomington Bison President Andy Zilch announced today the team’s full 2026-27 season schedule, which will begin with Opening Night on Saturday, October 17, 2026.

The Bison will begin their 36-game home schedule against the Kalamazoo Wings and play three of the first five games of the season on home ice.

Central-Division foes make up most of the docket, with 57 such matchups and 27 at home. Additionally, Bloomington will host Wheeling, Worcester, Trois Rivieres, Adirondack and Wichita for the first time. The Bison will travel to Maine and Wichita for the first time in team history in January and March, respectively.

Bison fans can plan on spending 14 Fridays, 13 Saturdays and seven Sundays at Grossinger Motors Arena. The team will also play at home on Wednesday, February 10 and Tuesday, February 23. Puck drop on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays is set for 7 p.m., while Sunday games will begin at 4 p.m. The annual Education Day Game on Tuesday, February 23 will begin at 10:30 a.m.

The ECHL will observe a holiday break from December 21-25, 2026, and the annual All-Star Break is slated for January 25-28, 2027. Bloomington will enter the second half of its season and home schedule on Saturday, January 23 against Wheeling.

Bloomington’s schedule is divided into the following matchups: 13 games against Indy, 12 games against Fort Wayne, 10 games against Kalamazoo and Toledo, seven games against Cincinnati, six games against Wichita, five games against Wheeling, three games against Maine, and two games against Worcester, Adirondack and Trois Rivieres.

Please click HERE for a calendar view of the schedule.

2026-27 Full Season Memberships are available for as low as $66 per month on an interest free payment plan!! Special benefits include a Meet-the-Team event, Herd Store discount, invitation to exclusive events, ticket exchange program, exclusive FanSaves deals, and a personal Ticket Account Executive. Visit bloomingtonbisonhockey.com or call (309) 965-HERD for more information.

BLOOMINGTON BISON

HOWLINGS

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BISON ANNOUNCE 26-27 SEASON SCHEDULE

BISON ANNOUNCE FULL 2026-27 SEASON SCHEDULE By: Erik Konwinski, Bloomington Bison Bloomington, IL – Bloomington Bison President Andy Zilch announced today the team’s full 2026-27 season schedule, which will begin with Opening Night on Saturday, October 17, 2026. The Bison will begin their 36-game home schedule against the Kalamazoo Wings and play three of the first five games of the season on…

BISON ANNOUNCE 26-27 SEASON SCHEDULE

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SWAMP RABBITS SHARE 26-27 SCHEDULE

SWAMP RABBITS ANNOUNCE 2026-27 ECHL SCHEDULE Team begins the 25th season of hockey in Greenville on October 16th against South Carolina

By: Mark Binetti, Greenville Swamp Rabbits

GREENVILLE, SC — The Greenville Swamp Rabbits, proud ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s Los Angeles Kings and AHL’s Ontario Reign, announced today in conjunction with the ECHL the team’s 72-game schedule for the upcoming 2026-27 ECHL Season.

Below are some notes and numbers regarding the team’s upcoming 17th season in the “Premier ‘AA’ Hockey League”:

- The team begins the defense of home ice on Friday, October 16th against the South Carolina Stingrays. This is the fifth straight season that the home opener doubles as the first game of the new campaign, and between the eight seasons of the Greenville Grrrowl, five seasons of the Road Warriors, and now 12 of the Swamp Rabbits, marks 25 seasons of professional hockey in the Upstate. - Compared to the 2025-26 schedule, the Swamp Rabbits will square off against five new opponents. For the first time since the 2024-25 campaign, the Swamp Rabbits will play the Indy Fuel (five games), Kansas City Mavericks, and Norfolk Admirals (three games each). The Swamp Rabbits also play the Toledo Walleye once for the first time since the 2023-24 season and will also play one of the ECHL’s two newest teams, the Trenton Ironhawks, for three games. Rounding out the non-divisional slate is the Greensboro Gargoyles, who the Swamp Rabbits play five times, a step-up from last season’s two meetings. - The annual “School Day Game” and “New Year’s Eve Game” return once again to the schedule. The Swamp Rabbits will host the Orlando Solar Bears for a 10:30 am puck drop on Tuesday, November 10th, while the Swamp Rabbits put a bow on the year 2026 against the Atlanta Gladiators with a special 6:05 pm puck drop on Thursday, December 31st. - The team’s longest stretch of games inside the friendly confines of Bon Secours Wellness Arena is five games from February 6th to February 13th. Subsequently, the longest road trip for the team is eight games, three less than last year’s franchise record 11-game stretch, which takes them to Trenton, Indy, Toledo, and Florida from February 19th to March 6th. - The Swamp Rabbits have lots of road and home play backloaded into the schedule. Starting with the previously mentioned eight-game road swing, the team plays 12 of 14 games away from Greenville from February 19th to March 20th. They follow the long absence up with eight of their last nine games of the season in Bon Secours Wellness Arena. - The busiest month in the season is January, which features 14 games, and a season-high seven at home. The next busiest months are February and March, both housing a dozen games, while November and December contain 11 contests. - Of the team’s 72 games, 52 come against South Division opponents, with the South Carolina Stingrays and Florida Everblades leading the matchups with 10 each. Of the remaining 20 games, 11 come against the North Division, six against the Central Division, and three against the Mountain Division. - Regarding home games, 29 fall on weekend dates for a second straight season (10 on Friday, 11 on Saturday, eight on Sunday). The remaining seven are on Wednesday (three games), Thursday (three games), and Tuesday (one game).

The following is a breakdown of games for the 12 opponents in the 2026-27 ECHL Season:

- South Carolina Stingrays: 10 games (6 home, 4 away) - Florida Everblades: 10 games (5 home, 5 away) - Jacksonville Icemen: 9 games (5 home, 4 away) - Atlanta Gladiators: 9 games (3 home, 6 away) - Savannah Ghost Pirates: 8 games (4 home, 4 away) - Orlando Solar Bears: 6 games (4 home, 2 away) - Greensboro Gargoyles: 5 games (3 home, 2 away) - Indy Fuel: 5 games (3 home, 2 away) - Kansas City Mavericks: 3 home games - Norfolk Admirals: 3 away games - Trenton Ironhawks: 3 away games - Toledo Walleye: 1 away game

Below are the dates and times of the 2026-27 ECHL Season. Please note that all dates, times, opponents, and locations are subject to change. All times are Eastern, HOME GAMES ARE IN BOLD CAPITALS:

OCTOBER (7 Games: 4 Home/3 Away)

- FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16th vs SOUTH CAROLINA STINGRAYS – 7:05 pm - OPENING NIGHT, presented by Bon Secours - Saturday, October 17th @ South Carolina Stingrays – 6:05 pm - FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23rd vs JACKSONVILLE ICEMEN – 7:05 pm - Saturday, October 24th @ Greensboro Gargoyles – 7:00 pm - Sunday, October 25th @ Greensboro Gargoyles – 3:00 pm - FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30th vs FLORIDA EVERBLADES – 7:05 pm - SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31st vs FLORIDA EVERBLADES – 7:05 pm

NOVEMBER (11 Games: 5 Home/6 Away)

- Sunday, November 1st @ Savannah Ghost Pirates – 3:00 pm - Friday, November 6th @ Savannah Ghost Pirates – 7:00 pm - SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7th vs ATLANTA GLADIATORS – 7:05 pm - TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10th vs ORLANDO SOLAR BEARS – 10:30 am - SCHOOL DAY GAME, presented by AFL - THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12th vs ATLANTA GLADIATORS – 7:05 pm - Friday, November 13th @ Jacksonville Icemen – 7:00 pm - SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21st vs GREENSBORO GARGOYLES – 7:05 pm - SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22nd vs GREENSBORO GARGOYLES – 3:05 pm - Wednesday, November 25th @ Jacksonville Icemen – 7:00 pm - Friday, November 27th @ Orlando Solar Bears – 7:00 pm - Saturday, November 28th @ Orlando Solar Bears – 7:00 pm

DECEMBER (11 Games: 5 Home/6 Away)

- FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4th vs SAVANNAH GHOST PIRATES – 7:05 pm - Saturday, December 5th @ Savannah Ghost Pirates – 7:00 pm - WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9th vs SOUTH CAROLINA STINGRAYS – 7:05 pm - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12th vs SAVANNAH GHOST PIRATES – 7:05 pm - Sunday, December 13th @ South Carolina Stingrays – 3:05 pm - Friday, December 18th @ Atlanta Gladiators – 7:10pm - Saturday, December 19th @ Atlanta Gladiators – 7:10 pm - Sunday, December 20th @ Atlanta Gladiators – 3:10 pm - ECHL Holiday Break is December 21st – December 25th - SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27th vs SOUTH CAROLINA STINGRAYS – 3:05 pm - Tuesday, December 29th @ Atlanta Gladiators – 7:10 pm - THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31st vs ATLANTA GLADIATORS – 6:05 pm - NEW YEAR’S EVE GAME

JANUARY (14 Games: 7 Home/7 Away)

- SATURDAY, JANUARY 2nd vs JACKSONVILLE ICEMEN – 7:05 pm - SUNDAY, JANUARY 3rd vs JACKSONVILLE ICEMEN – 3:05 pm - Wednesday, January 6th @ Florida Everblades – 7:30 pm - Friday, January 8th @ Florida Everblades – 7:30 pm - Saturday, January 9th @ Florida Everblades – 7:00 pm - FRIDAY, JANUARY 15th vs ORLANDO SOLAR BEARS – 7:05 pm - SATURDAY, JANUARY 16th vs ORLANDO SOLAR BEARS – 7:05 pm - SUNDAY, JANUARY 17th vs ORLANDO SOLAR BEARS – 3:05 pm - Friday, January 22nd @ Norfolk Admirals – 7:05 pm - Saturday, January 23rd @ Norfolk Admirals – 7:05 pm - Sunday, January 24th @ Norfolk Admirals – 3:05 pm - ECHL All-Star Break is January 25th – January 28th - FRIDAY, JANUARY 29th vs SAVANNAH GHOST PIRATES – 7:05 pm - Saturday, January 30th @ South Carolina Stingrays – 6:05 pm - SUNDAY, JANUARY 31st vs SOUTH CAROLINA STINGRAYS – 3:05 pm

FEBRUARY (12 Games: 5 Home/7 Away)

- Friday, February 5th @ Jacksonville Icemen – 7:00 pm - SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6th vs JACKSONVILLE ICEMEN – 7:05 pm - SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 7th vs GREENSBORO GARGOYLES – 3:05 pm - THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11th vs FLORIDA EVERBLADES – 7:05 pm - FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12th vs FLORIDA EVERBLADES – 7:05 pm - SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13th vs FLORIDA EVERBLADES – 7:05 pm - Friday, February 19th @ Trenton Ironhawks – 7:00 pm - Saturday, February 20th @ Trenton Ironhawks – 6:00 pm - Sunday, February 21st @ Trenton Ironhawks – 3:00 pm - Friday, February 26th @ Indy Fuel – 7:15 pm - Saturday, February 27th @ Indy Fuel – 7:00 pm - Sunday, February 28th @ Toledo Walleye – 5:15 pm

MARCH (12 Games: 6 Home/6 Away)

- Friday, March 5th @ Florida Everblades – 7:30 pm - Saturday, March 6th @ Florida Everblades – 7:00 pm - FRIDAY, MARCH 12th vs SOUTH CAROLINA STINGRAYS – 7:05 pm - SATURDAY, MARCH 13th vs SAVANNAH GHOST PIRATES – 7:05 pm - Sunday, March 14th @ Savannah Ghost Pirates – 3:00 pm - Wednesday, March 17th @ Atlanta Gladiators – 7:10 pm - Friday, March 19th @ South Carolina Stingrays – 7:05 pm - Saturday, March 20th @ Jacksonville Icemen – 7:00 pm - WEDNESDAY, MARCH 24th vs KANSAS CITY MAVERICKS – 7:05 pm - FRIDAY, MARCH 26th vs KANSAS CITY MAVERICKS – 7:05 pm - SATURDAY, MARCH 27th vs KANSAS CITY MAVERICKS – 7:05 pm - WEDNESDAY, MARCH 31st vs JACKSONVILLE ICEMEN – 7:05 pm

APRIL (5 Games: 4 Home/1 Away)

- Saturday, April 3rd @ Atlanta – 7:10 pm - SUNDAY, APRIL 4th vs SOUTH CAROLINA STINGRAYS – 3:05 pm - FRIDAY, APRIL 9th vs INDY FUEL – 7:05 pm - SATURDAY, APRIL 10th vs INDY FUEL – 7:05 pm - SUNDAY, APRIL 11th vs INDY FUEL – 3:05 pm  - LAST GAME OF REGULAR SEASON

About the Greenville Swamp Rabbits … Acquired by Spire Sports + Entertainment (SS+E) in 2020, the Greenville Swamp Rabbits hockey team have been providing family friendly, live entertainment at Bon Secours Wellness Arena since 2010. Formerly the Greenville Road Warriors, the Swamp Rabbits are the highest-level professional minor league franchise in South Carolina. The Swamp Rabbits are the proud ECHL affiliate of the NHL's LA Kings and the AHL's Ontario Reign. Greenville is a member of the ECHL, Premier ‘AA’ Hockey League.

GREENVILLE SWAMP RABBITS

HOWLINGS

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SWAMP RABBITS SHARE 26-27 SCHEDULE

SWAMP RABBITS ANNOUNCE 2026-27 ECHL SCHEDULE Team begins the 25th season of hockey in Greenville on October 16th against South Carolina By: Mark Binetti, Greenville Swamp Rabbits GREENVILLE, SC — The Greenville Swamp Rabbits, proud ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s Los Angeles Kings and AHL’s Ontario Reign, announced today in conjunction with the ECHL the team’s 72-game schedule for the upcoming…

SWAMP RABBITS SHARE 26-27 SCHEDULE

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BISON ELIMINATED FROM ECHL PLAYOFFS

BISON ELIMINATED IN GAME SIX

By: Erik Konwinski, Bloomington Bison

Toledo, Ohio – The Bloomington Bison battled back to tie the game in the second period but were eliminated from the playoffs by a 6-2 final in Game Six against the Toledo Walleye at the Huntington Center on Sunday evening.

Bloomington began the game with steady pressure and jumped out to a 5-2 shot advantage before a giveaway from behind the net resulted in a go-ahead goal by Toledo at 4:07. Later in the stanza, the two teams played 4-on-4 before the Bison were tabbed with a high-sticking minor. The visitors successfully killed the penalty but headed into the second period down 1-0.

The Bison ramped up pressure in the middle frame and Grant Porter knotted the score from Kyle Jackson and Deni Goure at 7:53. Porter’s tally marked a three-game goal streak, and Goure extended his team-leading playoff totals to eight points. Momentum shriveled away soon after when the Walleye regained their lead at 13:03. Toledo erupted for two more goals in a three-minute span to take a 4-1 lead into the third. Bloomington earned its first powerplay in the final minute and took full advantage of it on the other side of the intermission.

Merely 61 seconds into the final period of the season, Ayden MacDonald registered his second powerplay goal of the playoffs, from Jackson and Lou-Felix Denis, but the Bison would be held off the scoresheet for the remainder of the game. Toledo added further insurance to go up 5-2 at 8:33 and later added an empty net goal.

2026-27 Full Season Memberships are available for as low as $66 per month on an interest free payment plan!! Special benefits include a Meet-the-Team event, Herd Store discount, invitation to exclusive events, ticket exchange program, exclusive FanSaves deals, and a personal Ticket Account Executive. Visit bloomingtonbisonhockey.com or call (309) 965-HERD for more information.

BLOOMINGTON BISON HOWLINGS

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BISON ELIMINATED FROM ECHL PLAYOFFS

BISON ELIMINATED IN GAME SIX

By: Erik Konwinski, Bloomington Bison

Toledo, Ohio – The Bloomington Bison battled back to tie the game in the second period but were eliminated from the playoffs by a 6-2 final in Game Six against the Toledo Walleye at the Huntington Center on Sunday evening.

Bloomington began the game with steady pressure and jumped out to a 5-2 shot advantage before a giveaway from behind the net resulted in a go-ahead goal by Toledo at 4:07. Later in the stanza, the two teams played 4-on-4 before the Bison were tabbed with a high-sticking minor. The visitors successfully killed the penalty but headed into the second period down 1-0.

The Bison ramped up pressure in the middle frame and Grant Porter knotted the score from Kyle Jackson and Deni Goure at 7:53. Porter’s tally marked a three-game goal streak, and Goure extended his team-leading playoff totals to eight points. Momentum shriveled away soon after when the Walleye regained their lead at 13:03. Toledo erupted for two more goals in a three-minute span to take a 4-1 lead into the third. Bloomington earned its first powerplay in the final minute and took full advantage of it on the other side of the intermission.

Merely 61 seconds into the final period of the season, Ayden MacDonald registered his second powerplay goal of the playoffs, from Jackson and Lou-Felix Denis, but the Bison would be held off the scoresheet for the remainder of the game. Toledo added further insurance to go up 5-2 at 8:33 and later added an empty net goal.

2026-27 Full Season Memberships are available for as low as $66 per month on an interest free payment plan!! Special benefits include a Meet-the-Team event, Herd Store discount, invitation to exclusive events, ticket exchange program, exclusive FanSaves deals, and a personal Ticket Account Executive. Visit bloomingtonbisonhockey.com or call (309) 965-HERD for more information.

BLOOMINGTON BISON HOWLINGS

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BISON ELIMINATED FROM ECHL PLAYOFFS

BISON ELIMINATED IN GAME SIX By: Erik Konwinski, Bloomington Bison Toledo, Ohio – The Bloomington Bison battled back to tie the game in the second period but were eliminated from the playoffs by a 6-2 final in Game Six against the Toledo Walleye at the Huntington Center on Sunday evening. Bloomington began the game with steady pressure and jumped out to a 5-2 shot advantage before a giveaway from…

BISON ELIMINATED FROM ECHL PLAYOFFS

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BISON MCKAY, BISON CLAIM GAME FIVE

BISON MCKAY, BISON CLAIMS GAME FIVE

By: Erik Konwinski, Bloomington Bison

Bloomington, Ill – Dryden McKay turned aside 38 of 39 shots to help the Bloomington Bison defeat the Toledo Walleye by a score of 2-1 on Thursday night at Grossinger Motors Arena.  

The Bison struck first in consecutive games Deni Goure tapped home a one-timer on an odd-man rush from Grant Porter. Kyle Jackson set up the play with a bank pass to Porter. Toledo answered about three minutes later to even the score at one. The penalty kill remained strong after killing off both shorthanded opportunities in the frame. McKay fended off 16 of 17 opening period shots.

SOUNDS OF THE GAME Highlights:  Phillip Barski Grant Porter: Dryden McKay:

Bloomington continued its strong special teams play in the middle stanza. The Bison had two powerplay chances and although did not score, it was able to set up good looks for Jackson and Porter. Bloomington started turning the momentum to its side, heading to the final frame.

Porter notched the game winner at 11:32 in the third after Jackson stole the puck in the offensive zone and fed Porter in the slot who ripped it home. The Bison killed a late penalty – going perfect on the night – as McKay fended off shots through traffic. Toledo played with the extra attacker for the final three minutes, but McKay stood tall and blocked all 12 shots he saw.

The best-of-seven series shifts back to Toledo on Sunday afternoon for game six with puck drop scheduled for 4:15 pm, with the Bison fighting back in a 3-2 series

2026-27 Full Season Memberships are available for as low as $66 per month on an interest free payment plan!! Special benefits include a Meet-the-Team event, Herd Store discount, invitation to exclusive events, ticket exchange program, exclusive FanSaves deals, and a personal Ticket Account Executive. Visit bloomingtonbisonhockey.com or call (309) 965-HERD for more information.

BLOOMINGTON BISON HOWLINGS

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BISON MCKAY, BISON CLAIM GAME FIVE

BISON MCKAY, BISON CLAIMS GAME FIVE

By: Erik Konwinski, Bloomington Bison

Bloomington, Ill – Dryden McKay turned aside 38 of 39 shots to help the Bloomington Bison defeat the Toledo Walleye by a score of 2-1 on Thursday night at Grossinger Motors Arena.  

The Bison struck first in consecutive games Deni Goure tapped home a one-timer on an odd-man rush from Grant Porter. Kyle Jackson set up the play with a bank pass to Porter. Toledo answered about three minutes later to even the score at one. The penalty kill remained strong after killing off both shorthanded opportunities in the frame. McKay fended off 16 of 17 opening period shots.

SOUNDS OF THE GAME Highlights:  Phillip Barski Grant Porter: Dryden McKay:

Bloomington continued its strong special teams play in the middle stanza. The Bison had two powerplay chances and although did not score, it was able to set up good looks for Jackson and Porter. Bloomington started turning the momentum to its side, heading to the final frame.

Porter notched the game winner at 11:32 in the third after Jackson stole the puck in the offensive zone and fed Porter in the slot who ripped it home. The Bison killed a late penalty – going perfect on the night – as McKay fended off shots through traffic. Toledo played with the extra attacker for the final three minutes, but McKay stood tall and blocked all 12 shots he saw.

The best-of-seven series shifts back to Toledo on Sunday afternoon for game six with puck drop scheduled for 4:15 pm, with the Bison fighting back in a 3-2 series

2026-27 Full Season Memberships are available for as low as $66 per month on an interest free payment plan!! Special benefits include a Meet-the-Team event, Herd Store discount, invitation to exclusive events, ticket exchange program, exclusive FanSaves deals, and a personal Ticket Account Executive. Visit bloomingtonbisonhockey.com or call (309) 965-HERD for more information.

BLOOMINGTON BISON HOWLINGS