WORCESTER—It’s many months away, but not too early to get excited about it.
The Railers announced their 2024-25 season schedule on Tuesday, which kicks off at home with two games against the Reading Royals on Saturday, Oct. 19, and Sunday, Oct. 20, at the DCU Center. Saturday’s game starts at 6:05 p.m., and Sunday’s faceoff is at 3:05 p.m.
The team will once again play 72 games, with 36 at home and 36 on the road. This season’s schedule concludes in Trois-Rivieres, as it has in recent years. Worcester remains affiliated with the New York Islanders and their American Hockey League partners in Bridgeport.
“The groundwork for the upcoming season is underway,” Railers Chief Operating Officer Mike Myers said in the announcement, “and we look forward to celebrating Year Seven alongside the best fans in ECHL hockey.”
The 2024-25 schedule includes 12 opponents, featuring six out-of-division teams. The Atlanta Gladiators, South Carolina Stingrays, and Bloomington Bison will visit the DCU Center. The Wheeling Nailers have rejoined the North Division and will return to Worcester for the first time since 2019.
While the Railers have set their 2024-25 schedule, they have yet to name a new head coach and general manager to replace Jordan Smotherman, who left to coach in Austria. Interviews for his replacement are ongoing with many qualified candidates.
This marks the 30th year of pro hockey in Worcester. The AHL IceCats started in 1994-95, followed by the AHL Sharks, and now the ECHL Railers. The 2024-25 season will feature 36 unique themes, numerous giveaways, and exciting hockey. The Railers are introducing a new 6:05 p.m. start time for all 13 Saturday home games. Top theme nights will be revealed on Wednesday, June 12.
All 36 home games will be played at the ASM Global managed DCU Center. All 72 games home and away will be broadcast on the Railers radio affiliate, 98.9 NASH Icon.
Contact Charlene Arsenault with your news, big, little or otherwise, at carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org
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