Binghamton to Welcome New Hockey Team to the Arena

The next chapter in Binghamton hockey will start in the fall when a new team takes to the ice at the Visions Federal Credit Union Memorial Arena.

Broome County Executive Jason Garnar Wednesday morning announced the Binghamton Black Bears are planning to play their first game in October.

Garnar said Andreas Johansson is the majority owner of the team, which will be part of the Federal Prospects Hockey League. Johansson also owns the Watertown Wolves, a team that plays in the same league.

Speaking on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program, Garnar said the Black Bears will play 30 to 40 games at the Arena during the team's inaugural season.

HAPPIER DAYS: Binghamton Devils fans on State Street before a game on October 5, 2019. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)

The American Hockey League board of governors last Thursday gave its approval to New Jersey to move its franchise from Binghamton to Utica.

The Binghamton Devils have been playing in New Jersey during the current Covid pandemic-shortened season.

The last hockey game at the Arena was played in March of last year when public events were cancelled because of health concerns.