New Minor League Hockey Team Coming To North County

OCEANSIDE, CA — A new professional hockey team will begin play in Oceanside this fall, marking the arrival of the sport in North County San Diego, officials announced Monday.

The team will compete in the Federal Prospects Hockey League and is set to debut in October at Frontwave Arena in Oceanside.

Arena officials said the addition is part of a broader effort to expand sports offerings in the region and establish the venue as a premier sports and entertainment destination.

The Oceanside franchise will be led by Frontwave Arena co-founder Phil Salvagio and a group of investors with experience in business and hockey operations.

"We're incredibly excited to bring professional hockey to Frontwave Arena," Salvagio said. "This is a big step forward, and we're committed to building a team that delivers a great experience for fans while helping grow the game in this community."

As part of the launch, the arena will undergo upgrades to support professional hockey, including installation of a permanent ice system, a chiller and other equipment. Officials also plan to introduce youth hockey programs aimed at expanding access to the sport locally.

League Commissioner Don Kirnan said the expansion aligns with the league's focus on growth and community engagement.

"This collaboration reflects the kind of strategic growth we value as a league, aligning with strong partners who are committed to building the game at every level," Kirnan said. "We look forward to seeing this market embrace professional hockey and the positive impact it will have on the local sports community, youth development, and fan experience."

Additional details, including the team's name, logo, coaching staff and roster, are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.