Hockey is Back: Mobile’s Next Great Sports Story
For the first time in more than two decades, professional hockey is returning to the Port City.
The announcement marks a major milestone for downtown Mobile as the city prepares for the opening of the new arena and welcomes a new franchise in the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL). The team is scheduled to begin play in the 2027-28 season, bringing fast-paced professional hockey back to a city that once embraced the beloved Mobile Mysticks.
A New Era for Downtown Mobile
The future hockey team will call the new Regions Arena home, a state-of-the-art venue being built in the heart of downtown Mobile. With a capacity of more than 10,000 fans, the arena is expected to become a centerpiece for sports, concerts, community events and Mardi Gras celebrations.
The franchise will be owned and operated by Zawyer Sports & Entertainment, a company with extensive experience operating professional hockey teams throughout the Southeast.
Remembering the Mysticks
Longtime Mobilians remember the excitement generated by the Mobile Mysticks, who played from 1995 through 2002. The Mysticks helped introduce hockey to the Gulf Coast and built a passionate fan base before the franchise relocated.
Now, after more than 25 years, professional hockey is once again preparing to drop the puck in Mobile.
Many fans have already begun speculating about whether the new team should revive the Mysticks name or embrace an entirely new identity that reflects Mobile’s culture and history. Community discussions have generated ideas ranging from the Mysticks to uniquely local concepts inspired by Mardi Gras, the bay and the city’s maritime heritage.
More Than Just Hockey
The arrival of professional hockey represents more than a new sports franchise.
It signals continued investment in downtown Mobile, creates new entertainment opportunities for families, attracts visitors to local businesses and adds another piece to the city’s growing momentum. Alongside major waterfront projects, airport improvements and new downtown development, hockey gives Mobile another reason to believe its best days are still ahead.
For a city that prides itself on being different, hockey may seem unexpected. But that might be exactly why it works.
What Happens Next?
The team has already launched efforts to engage the community, including a naming contest and season ticket deposits. Additional announcements regarding the team’s official name, branding, uniforms, and community programs are expected as the inaugural season approaches.
One thing is certain: when the puck drops in 2027, Mobile won’t just be welcoming a hockey team.
It will be celebrating the beginning of a new chapter in the city’s story.
• 100% combed and ring-spun cotton (Heather colors contain polyester)
• Pre-shrunk fabric
• Side-seamed construction
• Shoulder-to-shoulder taping
Disclaimer: The fabric is slightly sheer and may appear see-through, especially in lighter colors or under certain lighting conditions.
60 sec lap around downtown and the new Regions Arena!