Hockey in the Space City

  • Aeros
  • Gordie Howe
  • Space City Hockey

Houston, Texas has a storied hockey history, marked by the presence of various teams that have contributed to the growth of the sport in the city. The Houston Aeros, a minor league team, played a crucial role in establishing hockey in the area. Formed in 1972, the Aeros initially competed in the World Hockey Association (WHA) before later joining the Central Hockey League (CHL) and the International Hockey League (IHL). The Aeros achieved remarkable success, winning multiple championships and capturing the Calder Cup in the American Hockey League (AHL) in the early 1990s.

The city experienced a significant milestone in 2001 when the NHL's Minnesota Wild relocated their AHL affiliate to Houston, reviving the Aeros name. The Houston Aeros became the top development team for the Minnesota Wild, providing a platform for emerging talent. The team continued to enjoy success, reaching the Calder Cup Finals in the 2010-2011 season. Unfortunately, the Aeros' tenure in Houston came to an end in 2013 when the franchise moved to Iowa, leaving a void in the city's professional hockey scene.

While the AHL's departure left a temporary gap, Houston remains a hub for hockey at various levels. The city hosts amateur leagues, youth programs, and is home to the University of Houston's collegiate hockey team. Efforts to bring professional hockey back to Houston have persisted, reflecting the continued passion and interest in the sport within the local community.

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Hockey is alive and well in Texas.

San Antonio, Dallas, Austin, and Houston each have unique hockey histories that contribute to the overall growth of the sport in Texas. In San Antonio, the city has a notable presence in hockey with the San Antonio Rampage. Established in 2002, the Rampage served as the AHL affiliate for various NHL teams, including the Florida Panthers and the Colorado Avalanche. The team played a crucial role in fostering hockey interest in San Antonio, providing fans with professional-level games and contributing to the development of local talent.

Dallas, as mentioned earlier, is a major hub for hockey in Texas with the Dallas Stars, an NHL franchise that relocated from Minnesota in 1993. The Stars' impact on the city's hockey culture has been significant, not only with their on-ice success, including a Stanley Cup win, but also through the establishment of youth and amateur programs that continue to flourish. The Stars have played a pivotal role in making Dallas a prominent hockey city in the state.

In Austin, the Texas Stars, the AHL affiliate of the Dallas Stars, have been instrumental in fostering a hockey community in the state's capital. Since their founding in 2009, the Texas Stars have provided fans in Austin with high-level hockey and have contributed to the development of players who have gone on to make an impact in the NHL. The team's presence adds to the overall hockey culture in Austin and the surrounding areas.

Houston, with its rich history marked by the success of the Houston Aeros, has been a significant player in Texas hockey. The Aeros, founded in 1972, achieved success in various leagues before relocating in 2013. Despite the AHL's departure, Houston maintains a strong interest in hockey, with ongoing efforts to bring professional hockey back to the city. Houston's legacy in hockey continues through its participation in amateur and youth leagues, reflecting the enduring passion for the sport in the region. Together, San Antonio, Dallas, Austin, and Houston contribute to the diverse and growing hockey landscape in Texas.

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Hockey Day in Houston

  • Family Fun
  • Learn About Hockey in Houston
  • Grassroots and beyond

Enjoy time learning about how hockey is thriving in Houston. From the local community and the goings on. Lots to see with a great community and great support. Live at St Arnolds Brewery February 24, 2024 starting at 11 AM.

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Saint Arnolds