MOUNTAIN HOCKEY LEAGUE ANNOUNCES EXPANSION WITH NEW SAN DIEGO FRANCHISE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MOUNTAIN HOCKEY LEAGUE ANNOUNCES EXPANSION WITH NEW SAN DIEGO FRANCHISE

San Diego, CA – September 9, 2025 – The Mountain Hockey League (MHL) today announced a major expansion, welcoming a new franchise from San Diego, California, to the league for the upcoming 2025-2026 season.

The addition of the San Diego franchise marks a significant step in the MHL’s growth, bringing its brand of high-level, full-check hockey to a new market and fan base beyond its traditional Rocky Mountain roots. The league will maintain its commitment to competitive play under full NHL rules, providing an exceptional experience for both players and fans.

"This is an incredibly exciting day for the Mountain Hockey League," said MHL Commissioner Richard Michael Batenburg III. "Our league has always been about building strong, community-focused hockey, and we are thrilled to bring that spirit to San Diego. This expansion is a testament to the MHL's vision for the future and our ability to attract talented teams and passionate hockey communities."

Cole Diamond of San Diego Renegades said, “Being accepted into the Mountain Hockey League is more than a step forward—it’s a statement. This league is built for competitors, for communities, and we’re honored to be part of it. Coming in this season formerly as the San Diego Hockey Club, this isn’t a rebrand, it’s a resurrection. We’re player-owned team, built for battle, and truly carry ourselves like violent gentlemen. "The Clear Cup is the target, and we’re coming.”

The San Diego franchise will join established teams like the Breckenridge Vipers and Reno Ice Raiders. The league's regular season runs from October 1 to April 15, with the playoffs concluding in late April with The Clear Cup Presented by Bladetech Championship series.

About Mountain Hockey League The Mountain Hockey League (MHL) is a semi-pro hockey league for Sr 'A' players located in the Rocky Mountains. It was created by hockey players, for hockey players. The MHL is full-check NHL rules and runs its regular season from November 1 to April 15, with a best-of-three championship series at the end of April for the "CLEAR CUP". The MHL includes teams from small towns across Colorado, California, Idaho, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, Texas, Montana, and exhibition teams from across the United States. https://www.mountainhockeyleague.co/

About THE SAN DIEGO FRANCHISE

The San Diego franchise is a new addition to the Mountain Hockey League, dedicated to bringing a competitive and thrilling brand of hockey to Southern California. As a new member of the MHL, the team is committed to providing a top-tier experience for its players and building a strong foundation in the San Diego hockey community. https://www.sandiegorenegades.com/

Contact:

Richard M. Batenburg III

Commissioner, Mountain Hockey League