History of Professional Hockey in New Mexico

Professional hockey has a long, meaningful history in New Mexico, one that spans multiple decades, several franchises, and generations of fans who helped build a foundation for the sport in the high desert. As the New Mexico Goatheads prepare for their inaugural ECHL season in 2026–27, the organization proudly embraces this legacy.

Early Beginnings: The First Pro Teams in Albuquerque

Albuquerque Six-Guns (1973–1974) 

New Mexico’s introduction to professional hockey began with the Albuquerque Six-Guns, members of the Central Hockey League during the 1973–74 season. Though the team’s tenure was brief, it marked the state’s first taste of high-level hockey and planted the earliest seeds for what would become a lasting connection to the sport.

Albuquerque Chaparrals (1975–1977)

Two years later, the Albuquerque Chaparrals joined the Southwest Hockey League. Their presence helped sustain the sport in the region during a time when professional hockey was still finding its footing in the American Southwest. The SWHL folded in 1977, bringing the Chaparrals’ run to an end.

A Modern Era Arrives: The New Mexico Scorpions

New Mexico Scorpions in Albuquerque (1996–2005)

Professional hockey returned in 1996 with the launch of the New Mexico Scorpions, competing first in the Western Professional Hockey League and later in the Central Hockey League. Playing in Albuquerque, the Scorpions introduced a new generation of fans to the sport and helped reestablish hockey as a vibrant part of New Mexico’s sports landscape.

New Mexico Scorpions in Rio Rancho (2006–2009)

In 2006, the Scorpions began a new chapter at the Rio Rancho Events Center, the same arena the Goatheads now call home. The team’s time in Rio Rancho further strengthened New Mexico’s connection to professional hockey, developing rivalries, memorable moments, and a community that embraced the sport until the Scorpions ceased operations in 2009.

The Spirit Never Left

In the years that followed, the passion for hockey across New Mexico never faded. Youth programs expanded, adult leagues grew, and the desire to see professional hockey return to the state remained strong. The groundwork laid by earlier teams ensured that the sport continued to thrive even without a pro franchise.

A New Chapter Begins: The New Mexico Goatheads

The arrival of the New Mexico Goatheads in 2026–27 marks the revival of professional hockey in the Land of Enchantment. The Goatheads are here to build upon the foundation created by the Six-Guns, Chaparrals, and Scorpions.

The organization plans to honor this legacy through:

Heritage recognition nights celebrating former teams, players, and contributors

Historical displays and storytelling throughout the Rio Rancho Events Center

Preservation of logos, photos, and artifacts from previous franchises

Engagement with alumni and longtime supporters of New Mexico hockey

Community initiatives that connect past eras with the next generation of fans

Honoring the Past, Building the Future

The Goatheads represent more than the return of professional hockey. They are the continuation of a decades-long tradition in New Mexico. By celebrating the teams that came before and creating new memories for future fans, the Goatheads are committed to carrying the state’s hockey legacy forward with pride.

A new era begins in 2026, one that remembers where we have been and looks confidently toward where we are going.