Worcester Railers Set to Announce New NHL Affiliate During Special Fan Event

“We are thrilled by this upcoming new announcement … bringing new life, new energy into a club.” — David Aitken, Worcester Railers Team President

By-Hank Stolz

Graphic-Radio Worcester, Photo-Worcester railers

Worcester, MA-  The Worcester Railers are preparing to make one of the most significant announcements in franchise history.

On Saturday, June 20 at 5:45 p.m., fans are invited to the Fidelity Bank Worcester Ice Center as the Railers officially reveal their new NHL affiliate for the 2026-27 season.

According to Worcester Railers Team President David Aitken, the event marks the first NHL affiliation change since the franchise was established in 2017. The Railers have been affiliated with the New York Islanders organization since the team’s inaugural season.

A New Era for the Railers

Appearing on Radio Worcester at Sherwood’s Diner, Aitken described the upcoming announcement as an exciting opportunity for the organization and its fans.

“We are thrilled by this upcoming new announcement in terms of a change being, like you mentioned, bringing new life, new energy into a club,” Aitken said.

While professional hockey affiliations often happen behind the scenes, they can have a major impact on player development, fan engagement, and the overall direction of a franchise. The Railers are expected to reveal both their NHL and American Hockey League development partners during the event.

Building Railers Fans First

While winning remains a priority, Aitken says the organization has always focused on creating an entertaining experience that appeals to everyone, not just hardcore hockey fans.

“Our goal is to create Railers fans first,” he explained.

That philosophy has helped the organization build a loyal following throughout Central Massachusetts by emphasizing family entertainment, community involvement, and a game-day atmosphere that welcomes both casual and dedicated fans.

“The goal for us,” Aitken said, “is that you have such a good time, you don’t even know what the score is at the end of the game.”

Free Fan Event and Public Skate

The June 20 event is open to the public and will feature the affiliate announcement followed by a free skate for fans. The Railers hope the evening serves as a celebration of the franchise’s future while giving supporters an opportunity to be part of a historic moment for Worcester hockey. With a new NHL partnership set to begin this fall, the announcement represents the beginning of a new chapter for one of Worcester’s most visible professional sports organizations.