Worcester Railers COO Mike Myers on ECHL Labor Strike, Team Outlook, and Community Role

Worcester Railers COO Mike Myers on ECHL Labor Strike, Team Outlook, and Community Role

Worcester Railers COO Mike Myers on ECHL Labor Strike, Team Outlook, and Community Role

 

By-Hank Stolz

Photo-submitted

WORCESTER, MA-On this edition of Voice of Business, Hank Stolz spoke with Tim Foley, the play-by-play voice of the Worcester Railers, and the team’s Chief Operating Officer, Mike Myers, about the recent labor dispute that briefly disrupted the ECHL season.

The discussion began with clarification around the short-lived strike involving the ECHL. Foley and Myers confirmed that games affected by the work stoppage were postponed rather than canceled, and that a new labor agreement was in the process of being ratified, allowing the season to move forward with minimal long-term disruption.

Myers noted that while the timing of the strike created uncertainty, the organization remained focused on maintaining momentum both on and off the ice. He emphasized that the Railers were proactive in communicating with fans and partners during the situation.

The conversation also turned to the team’s recent performance and roster development. Myers discussed new player acquisitions designed to strengthen the lineup and improve competitiveness as the season progresses. He said those moves reflect the organization’s commitment to putting a strong product on the ice for Worcester fans.

Looking ahead, Foley highlighted several upcoming promotional games aimed at energizing the fan base and enhancing the game-day experience at the DCU Center. Both guests stressed that promotions and community engagement remain central to the Railers’ identity.

Community involvement was a recurring theme throughout the discussion. Myers pointed out that even as the labor situation loomed, players and staff continued to show up for the community participating in local initiatives and reinforcing the organization’s long-standing commitment to Worcester.

As the Railers move past the labor disruption, team leadership expressed optimism about the remainder of the season, emphasizing stability, competitive growth, and a continued focus on serving the Worcester community both on and off the ice.

Worcester City Manager Explains Civilian Review Board Decision

Worcester City Manager Eric Batista explains why his administration is not recommending a civilian review board, describing the city’s existing independent investigative process, research into national oversight models, and broader efforts to strengthen public trust in policing.

George Street Bike Challenge Returns to Worcester July 26

The George Street Bike Challenge returns to Worcester on July 26 for its 22nd year, inviting cyclists and spectators alike to celebrate Major Taylor while taking on one of the city’s steepest hills during New England’s largest bike festival.

LIVE STREAM
Radio Worcester

kill the ball media

CONNECT

RADIO WORCESTER STUDIOS

Summit Street (Behind Polar Park)
Worcester, MA 01610.

LISTENER LINE

MAIN OFFICE

Dr. Charles Steinberg on Prop Bets, Integrity, and Winter in Wooville

Dr. Charles Steinberg on Prop Bets, Integrity, and Winter in Wooville

Dr. Charles Steinberg on Prop Bets, Integrity, and Winter in Wooville

By-Hank Stolz

Photo- Submitted

WORCESTER, MA– Dr. Charles Steinberg, President of the Worcester Red Sox talks about the recent controversy involving the Cleavland Guardians and prop bets. Steinberg talks about the integrity of the game and his concerns over how susceptible young players could be to outside influences from some bad actors. There is also a discussion of just what are prop bets. On the lighter side, Winter in Wooville is coming up, as is the Worcester Red Sox Foundation Honors featuring Nick Sogard and Payton Tolle.

Dr. Charles Steinberg Shares the Inspiration Behind WooSox ’26 Theme

Dr. Charles Steinberg, President of the Worcester Red Sox, shares the inspiration behind the WooSox 2026 theme song. Rooted in rising attendance and the belief that baseball is best when shared together, the new anthem features lyrics representing three generations of fans and will soon head to L.A. studio musicians for its next stage of creative development.

Dr. Charles Steinberg on Prop Bets, Integrity, and Winter in Wooville

Worcester Red Sox President Dr. Charles Steinberg weighs in on the recent prop bet controversy involving the Cleveland Guardians, raising concerns about young players’ vulnerability and the impact of granular sports wagering. He also previews Winter in Wooville and the upcoming WooSox Foundation Honors.

WooSox Foundation Gears Up for a Season of Giving

Dr. Charles Steinberg and the WooSox Foundation are turning Polar Park into a hub of holiday cheer. From coat and food drives to the Honors Gala and the debut of Winter in Wooville, the team is rallying Worcester for a season of giving, gratitude, and community connection.

Bigger and Better: Irish Festival Returns to Worcester with Sports, Music, and Culture

The Irish Festival returns to Worcester on Saturday, October 4th, at Polar Park, promising its biggest celebration yet. Organizers Caitlyn and Gareth are expanding the festival with Irish trivia at Moynagh’s Tavern, cultural workshops on Guinness and the Irish language, and performances by Irish historians and musicians, including Derek Warfield and the Young Wolfe Tones. Sports fans will enjoy a lineup of Gaelic matches, featuring ladies’ football, men’s hurling, and a showcase game with the NYPD Gaelic football team. From sports and history to music and food, the festival offers something for everyone.

LIVE STREAM
Radio Worcester

kill the ball media

CONNECT

RADIO WORCESTER STUDIOS

Summit Street (Behind Polar Park)
Worcester, MA 01610.

LISTENER LINE

MAIN OFFICE

Momentum on Ice: Worcester Railers Voice Tim Foley Previews “Fight Cancer,” “Autism Acceptance,” and “Eras on Ice” Nights

Momentum on Ice: Worcester Railers Voice Tim Foley Previews “Fight Cancer,” “Autism Acceptance,” and “Eras on Ice” Nights

Momentum on Ice: Worcester Railers Voice Tim Foley Previews “Fight Cancer,” “Autism Acceptance,” and “Eras on Ice” Nights

By-Hank Stolz

Photo-submitted

WORCESTER, MA– Tim Foley, the unmistakable voice of the Worcester Railers, joined Radio Worcester to share insights on the team’s upcoming promotions and their gritty early-season play.

Saturday marks “Railers Fight Cancer Night”, featuring special jerseys and a pregame Boston Bruins Alumni match—a fan-favorite event that unites hockey and hope. On Sunday, the DCU Center transforms for “Autism Acceptance Day,” offering a sensory-friendly environment designed for all fans to enjoy the action comfortably.

Foley also spotlighted “Eras on Ice,” a Taylor Swift–themed night that promises to blend pop culture and puck excitement.

Despite a slow start to the season, Foley emphasized the team’s physical, hard-nosed identity:

“This is a team that’s currently leading the ECHL in penalty minutes right now. For what it’s worth—it has certainly been physical hockey.”

Confident in a turnaround, Foley encouraged fans to witness the coming momentum firsthand:

“Momentum is a very real thing in sports. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise… make no mistake, once this train gets rolling, you’re going to want to be on the train.”

Worcester City Manager Explains Civilian Review Board Decision

Worcester City Manager Eric Batista explains why his administration is not recommending a civilian review board, describing the city’s existing independent investigative process, research into national oversight models, and broader efforts to strengthen public trust in policing.

George Street Bike Challenge Returns to Worcester July 26

The George Street Bike Challenge returns to Worcester on July 26 for its 22nd year, inviting cyclists and spectators alike to celebrate Major Taylor while taking on one of the city’s steepest hills during New England’s largest bike festival.

LIVE STREAM
Radio Worcester

kill the ball media

CONNECT

RADIO WORCESTER STUDIOS

Summit Street (Behind Polar Park)
Worcester, MA 01610.

LISTENER LINE

MAIN OFFICE

Momentum on Ice: Worcester Railers Voice Tim Foley Previews “Fight Cancer,” “Autism Acceptance,” and “Eras on Ice” Nights

Worcester Railers Open Season With Family Fun, Big Personalities, and Bigger Players

Worcester Railers Open Season With Family Fun, Big Personalities, and Bigger Players

By-Hank Stolz

Photo-Worcester Railers

WORCESTER, MA– Tim Foley, the voice of the Worcester Railers, calls in to the Talk of the Commonwealth to tell us about the team’s upcoming opening weekend. Plans include a pre-game block party Saturday night from 4-6, and a performance by international beatboxer NaPoM. Sunday it’s a special appearance by the children’s character Bluey. “It’s the memories that you make now and again, it’s not the score that really matters. It’s everything that happens in between that’s a lot of fun for these kids, and it creates that fandom at an early age when we’re honored to be a part of that in this community in particular.” Foley described the hockey team’s composition, highlighting its size, physicality, and infusion of skill from AHL-contracted players. “I think you’re going to be hard pressed to find a larger team in the ECHL this season. We’ve got a lot of big bodies on this team who are known for physicality…” Foley emphasized that the organization’s priority was the overall fan experience, particularly for families, focusing on creating lasting memories that build fandom from a young age.

The Gnomes Are Back in Town

The gnomes are back in town! Visit New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill this fall to explore a whimsical world of handcrafted gnomes. CEO Grace Elton shares the story behind this magical exhibit created by local artists.

Juniper Outreach Founder Julie McDonald Shares How School Pantries Feed Worcester’s Hungry Kids

Julie McDonald appeared on Voice of Business to tell the story behind Juniper Outreach, the Worcester-based nonprofit bringing food pantries directly into city schools. By ensuring children have access to food for nights and weekends, the organization is helping to fight hunger where it matters most. Support their mission at the Polar Park fundraiser on November 13th from 5:30–8:30 PM.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Launches Awareness Week in Worcester, Fitchburg & Marlborough

Connie Askin, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Mass & MetroWest, introduces Paint the Town Green—a weeklong initiative running September 14–20 in Worcester, Fitchburg, and Marlborough. Local businesses and organizations are encouraged to use green in creative ways to raise awareness of the importance of youth mentoring.

LIVE STREAM
Radio Worcester

kill the ball media

CONNECT

RADIO WORCESTER STUDIOS

Summit Street (Behind Polar Park)
Worcester, MA 01610.

LISTENER LINE

MAIN OFFICE

Erica Vanstone on Roller Derby, Authenticity, and Her New Book Don’t Let Them Eat the Baby

Erica Vanstone on Roller Derby, Authenticity, and Her New Book Don’t Let Them Eat the Baby

Charlton Native Erica Vanstone Champions Roller Derby’s Authentic Spirit in New Book

By-Hank Stolz

Photo- Erica Vanstone

WORCESTER, MA– Erica Vanstone from Charlton joins Hank to talk about her adventures in Roller Derby as chronicled in her new book, Don’t Let Them Eat the Baby: Why Roller Derby is the Greatest Sport Never Sold. Vanstone grew up in Charlton but her interest in film took her to NYC and eventually led to her being the executive director of the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA)–the governing body for the sport of roller derby.

The book’s title, “Don’t Let Them Eat the Baby,” comes from a roller derby strategy and serves as a metaphor for not allowing others to hold you back or compromise your authentic ideas. Erica tells Hank that roller derby’s authenticity and counter-culture ethos were both its greatest assets and its biggest obstacles to being “sold” to mainstream audiences and corporate media. She talked about a comment she overheard that illustrated how at one point before the success of the WNBA and other women led sports, women’s sports was a hard sell. “I heard a high-level executive from a national sports network who was a woman say to a room full of women, women’s sports are just not exciting enough yet. And so, if there was that kind of belief internally at the networks that women’s sports just weren’t good enough to be broadcast, you can have all the roller derby in the world you want. If no one wants to put it on their broadcast network, they’re not going to do it.”

Erica will be at A Great Notion Books this Saturday. The book will widely available on October 14th.

Worcester City Manager Explains Civilian Review Board Decision

Worcester City Manager Eric Batista explains why his administration is not recommending a civilian review board, describing the city’s existing independent investigative process, research into national oversight models, and broader efforts to strengthen public trust in policing.

George Street Bike Challenge Returns to Worcester July 26

The George Street Bike Challenge returns to Worcester on July 26 for its 22nd year, inviting cyclists and spectators alike to celebrate Major Taylor while taking on one of the city’s steepest hills during New England’s largest bike festival.

LIVE STREAM
Radio Worcester

kill the ball media

CONNECT

RADIO WORCESTER STUDIOS

Summit Street (Behind Polar Park)
Worcester, MA 01610.

LISTENER LINE

MAIN OFFICE

Tim Foley on Railers Community Programs and Upcoming Hockey Season

Tim Foley on Railers Community Programs and Upcoming Hockey Season

Worcester Railers Launch New Season with Community Engagement and October Overtime

By-Hank Stolz

Photo-Worcester Railers

WORCESTER, MA– Tim Foley, the voice of the Worcester Railers, stops by the Talk of the Commonwealth and speaks about the team’s recent and upcoming community engagement initiatives and gives us the details about the start of the new hockey season. Foley discussed the success of the “Railerizing Worcester” event, where staff visited over a hundred local businesses. He then announced a new program called “October Overtime,” a $5,000 donation to a fan-nominated local nonprofit. The conversation shifted to the upcoming season, detailing the start of training camp, public access to practices, and a free preseason game that would raise funds for the family of a deceased local college hockey player, Evan Armit. Foley said “It’s all one hockey community. That’s something I’ve seen happen time and time again whenever tragedy strikes this sport, and I’m always amazed by the response that comes out with stuff like this.” Foley gives us the scoop on the opening weekend festivities, which include a block party, a special halftime performance, and a “Bluey Day” for kids. The team’s training camp is set to begin and some practices at the Worcester Ice Center will be open to the public. “I’m excited to see this team take to the ice and I think it’s going to be a really competitive camp, and those are the things you want to start a year off. RailersHC.com

The Gnomes Are Back in Town

The gnomes are back in town! Visit New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill this fall to explore a whimsical world of handcrafted gnomes. CEO Grace Elton shares the story behind this magical exhibit created by local artists.

Juniper Outreach Founder Julie McDonald Shares How School Pantries Feed Worcester’s Hungry Kids

Julie McDonald appeared on Voice of Business to tell the story behind Juniper Outreach, the Worcester-based nonprofit bringing food pantries directly into city schools. By ensuring children have access to food for nights and weekends, the organization is helping to fight hunger where it matters most. Support their mission at the Polar Park fundraiser on November 13th from 5:30–8:30 PM.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Launches Awareness Week in Worcester, Fitchburg & Marlborough

Connie Askin, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Mass & MetroWest, introduces Paint the Town Green—a weeklong initiative running September 14–20 in Worcester, Fitchburg, and Marlborough. Local businesses and organizations are encouraged to use green in creative ways to raise awareness of the importance of youth mentoring.

LIVE STREAM
Radio Worcester

kill the ball media

CONNECT

RADIO WORCESTER STUDIOS

Summit Street (Behind Polar Park)
Worcester, MA 01610.

LISTENER LINE

MAIN OFFICE