GREENSBORO, NC — Pro hockey is officially back in the Gate City.
In a high-energy press conference Tuesday night at First Horizon Coliseum, the Greensboro Gargoyles unveiled new affiliation agreements with the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes and the AHL’s Chicago Wolves. The move officially launches Greensboro into the ECHL and aligns the new team with two of hockey’s most respected organizations.
“We couldn’t think of two better teams to help us usher in this inaugural season of Gargoyles Hockey,” said Andy Kaufmann, CEO of Zawyer Sports & Entertainment. “With the proximity and local support for the Hurricanes, along with a successful AHL club in the Chicago Wolves, this partnership makes perfect sense.”
Photo Credit: Josh Brown
The affiliation brings the Hurricanes back to familiar ice. Before moving into their permanent home in Raleigh in 1999, the Hurricanes played their first two seasons at First Horizon Coliseum after relocating from Hartford.
“We’re thrilled to affiliate with the Gargoyles and reconnect with our franchise’s history in Greensboro,” said Darren Yorke, Carolina Hurricanes Associate GM.
Photo Credit: Josh Brown
The Canes are currently chasing another Stanley Cup, locked in a playoff battle with the Washington Capitals.
The Wolves, based in Illinois, boast one of the AHL’s most decorated legacies — five league titles across the IHL and AHL, including their most recent Calder Cup win in 2022. Their affiliation adds depth and credibility to the Gargoyles’ player pipeline.
Notable alumni include Jordan Binnington, Steve Maltais, and Darren Haydar, all of whom brought serious heat to the pro level.
This October, the puck drops on a new era of ECHL hockey in Greensboro.
Scott Johnson, First Horizon Coliseum GM. Photo Credit: Josh Brown
“Tonight’s announcement further adds to the growing excitement and anticipation surrounding the return of hockey to First Horizon Coliseum,” said Scott Johnson, the venue’s GM. “We can’t wait for the puck to drop this fall and begin a new era of Gargoyles hockey.”
Josh is the Founder, Editor-in-Chief, and Lead Photographer of Stereofade Magazine. He currently resides in North Carolina and covers concerts and other types of photography around the state.
