RIO RANCHO, N.M. — The New Mexico Goatheads announced Saturday a multi-year NHL affiliation agreement with the Colorado Avalanche as the Goatheads prepare for their inaugural 2026–27 ECHL season.
“This partnership is about opportunity and growth,” said Jared Johnson, general manager of the New Mexico Goatheads. “Aligning with the Avalanche on a multi-year agreement gives our players a defined development path while delivering high-level hockey to our fans from day one.”
The agreement establishes a player development partnership that creates a clear pathway for players to advance within the Avalanche system while bringing professional hockey back to New Mexico.
Under the agreement, the Goatheads will serve as the ECHL affiliate of the Avalanche and their AHL affiliate, the Colorado Eagles, supporting player development through shared resources, coaching collaboration, and call-up opportunities throughout the season.
“The ECHL is a key part of the Avalanche-Eagles player development equation, and we’re excited to establish this multi-year partnership with the New Mexico Goatheads,” said Avalanche Assistant General Manager and Eagles General Manager Kevin McDonald. “We were impressed with the Albuquerque market when we were evaluating options, and Rio Rancho will provide a strong environment for players to grow both on and off the ice.”
Both teams made the announcement during a public event at THE BLOCK in Rio Rancho, NM.
The Goatheads will begin play in Fall 2026 at the Rio Rancho Events Center, marking the return of professional hockey to New Mexico for the first time since 2009.
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Contact:
Lucas Kalish
Director of Marketing, New Mexico Goatheads
lkalish@nmgoatheads.com | C: (847) 204-1146
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