After a four-year hiatus, professional hockey is making a triumphant return to Stockton. A new expansion team in the Federal Prospects Hockey League (FPHL) will drop the puck this fall at Adventist Health Arena, reigniting the city's passion for the sport.

The announcement came during a news conference on May 13, 2026, where Stockton and San Joaquin County leaders joined league representatives and officials from Legends Global—the arena's management company—to celebrate the milestone. The yet-to-be-named team is slated to begin its inaugural season in October 2026.

Stockton is no stranger to the ice. The city previously hosted the ECHL's Stockton Thunder and the American Hockey League's Stockton Heat, building a loyal fanbase that has eagerly awaited hockey's return. Now, with the FPHL expansion, that wait is finally over.

"Hockey's lucky to have Stockton," said Mayor Christina Fugazi during the event, capturing the excitement of a community ready to rally behind its new team. The FPHL, known for its fast-paced, fan-focused brand of hockey, offers an affordable and entertaining experience that should fit right in with Stockton's sports culture.

For local hockey fans, this means more than just games—it's a chance to reconnect with the energy of live hockey, from the roar of the crowd to the sound of skates cutting the ice. Whether you're a longtime supporter of the Thunder or Heat, or a newcomer ready to embrace the sport, this new chapter promises plenty of action.

As the team prepares for its debut, expect more details on the name, logo, and roster in the coming months. For now, Stockton can celebrate: professional hockey is back, and it's here to stay.