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The basics:

• Trenton Ironhawks announced as the name of city’s new ECHL franchise
• Team begins play in 2026–27 season at CURE Insurance Arena
• 2,000+ fans entered name-the-team contest
• Branding reflects Trenton’s industrial roots, regional identity

Welcome to the Capital City, Trenton Ironhawks.

In September, as NJBIZ reported, team officials announced that minor professional ice hockey league ECHL would return to Trenton for the 2026–27 season at CURE Insurance Arena, after more than a decade.

The announcement generated instant buzz and excitement from fans. Officials also kicked off a name-the-team contest, which drew more than 2,000 entries.

Jim Miller and Joel Perez submitted the winning team team. Both will receive two season ticket memberships each for the Ironhawks’ inaugural season.

Team President Bob Ohrablo announced the new name, logo and official team colors at the arena Jan. 13. Mercer County Executive Dan Benson, Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora and other officials joined Ohrablo and fans, including more than 650 season ticket members.

“Today marks an important milestone as we officially announce our franchise name, the Trenton Ironhawks, and prepare to bring a new era of professional ECHL hockey to Trenton,” said Ohrablo. “The hawk symbolizes strength and spirit, while the iron industry and its workers remain vital to Trenton’s economy through their grit and determination.

“By combining these elements into Ironhawks, we honor Trenton and reflect the team we are building, representing the city and the surrounding region, including Central New Jersey and Bucks County, Pennsylvania.”

Branding breakdown

The team’s colors are blue, grey and red. The Ironhawks logo incorporates iron textures and flame imagery. Blue accents on the wings and claws and red eyes symbolize intensity. The team’s marketing department developed the name and branding in collaboration with Adapting Social, a Point Pleasant-based digital marketing agency.

“We appreciate the more than 2,000 fans who participated in our name-the-team contest and the over 650 fans who have already become season members,” said Ohrablo.

Ohrablo leads the Pro Hockey Partners ownership group after purchasing the club from the Utah Grizzlies ownership group in September.

What’s in a logo?

• Trenton Ironhawks colors are blue, grey and red
• Logo incorporates iron textures and flame imagery
• Blue accents on the wings and claws; red eyes symbolize intensity

Trenton has not had an ECHL team since the Titans ceased operations in 2013.

“The arrival of the Trenton Ironhawks is an exciting moment for our city,” said Gusciora. “This team brings new energy to the CURE Insurance Arena and creates opportunities for residents, visitors, and businesses alike. The name Ironhawks reflects Trenton’s industrial roots and the strength and resilience that define this community.

“This is a proud new chapter for Trenton sports.”

Arena upgrades

Benson said Mercer County is upgrading CURE Insurance Arena to create a top-notch experience for fans and the team. He noted that fans from across the region will soar to Mercer County to cheer them on.

“While the name invokes Trenton’s proud past as an industrial powerhouse, the Ironhawks will play an important role in shaping a renaissance for our Capital City, bringing new economic activity, creating jobs, and igniting business opportunities right here in our community,” said Benson.

More information on the team can be found at trentonironhawks.com and across social media platforms @trentonironhawks.