APHL WELCOMES NEW FRANCHISE: JAMESTOWN RAILRAIDERS

July 18, 2025- Jamestown, NY

The American Premier Hockey League (APHL) is proud to officially announce the addition of its newest franchise: the Jamestown Railraiders, based in Jamestown, New York.

Set to debut in the 2025–26 season, the Railraiders will bring a fresh brand of blue-collar, high-tempo hockey to the Empire State. The franchise is expected to instantly enhance regional rivalries and reduce travel burdens for neighboring teams like the Buffalo Tempest and Iron City Forge

“Jamestown has a rich hockey history and a passionate fan base,” said APHL Co-Commissioner Nick Graham. “Bringing an APHL team to this community not only strengthens our league footprint in the Northeast but also builds stronger competition and more exciting matchups across the division.”

Located just a short drive from Buffalo and Iron City, the Railraiders will slot naturally into the league’s growing Eastern Division, forming the core of what’s quickly becoming a powerhouse region for the APHL, which is home of the APHL 24/25 Champions, the Buffalo Tempest.

The team name, Railraiders, pays homage to Jamestown’s historic ties to the railroad industry — reflecting the town’s gritty work ethic and strong community pride. Details about the team’s branding, coaching staff, and home arena will be released in the coming weeks.

As the APHL continues its expansion, the focus remains on sustainable growth, competitive balance, and fostering rivalries that fuel excitement in every corner of North America. The addition of Jamestown delivers on all three.

Fans can follow the Railraiders on social media and the APHL’s official platforms for upcoming announcements, ticket information, and the release of their inaugural season schedule.

Welcome to the league, Jamestown. Let’s hit the rails!