Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs

The Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs are a professional minor league hockey team in the SPHL. The club is based in Roanoke, Virginia.

Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs team logo

TABLE OF CONTENTS

About The Team

The Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs not only have one of the best names in minor league hockey, but they're also one of a number of professional hockey franchises that have called Roanoke valley home over the years. Prior to the Rail Tard Dawgs playing in the SPHL, they've had five other franchises play there dating back to the 1960's. The team was technically founded back in 2009, but it wasn't until 2015 when the teams ownership group purchased the idle Mississippi Surge franchise and they decided to bring it to Roanoke which is where the team resides to this day.
Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs hockey player on ice

What do players say?

"I was fortunate enough to have spent part of my minor pro career in Roanoke. I'm a big outdoors kinda guy so there was so much to do in that area from hiking and exploring on days off or after training. The Berglund Center was always jam packed and made you play with an extra boost of energy. Have nothing but quality memories."

Berglund Center

The Rail Yard Dawgs host all of their home games out of the Berglund Center in Roanoke, VA. Along with hosting the SPHL hockey team, the arena also hosts a number of other events in town ranging from basketball games to concerts. With over 4,900+ hockey fans per home match on average, they're on the higher end in terms of fan attendance across the league.
Berglund Center ice hockey game

How many championships do the Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs have?

The Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs have won the President's Cup once, taking home SPHL hardware in:

  • 2022-2023

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Notable/Cult Players

A few notable players in Rail Yard Dawgs history in the SPHL are:

  • Mac Jansen
  • Travis Armstrong
  • Josh Nenadal
  • CJ Stubbs
  • Steve Mele
  • Matt O'Dea
  • Colin Murray
  • Jeff Jones
  • Nick Ford

Off The Ice in Roanoke, Virginia

Roanoke, Virginia is located in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains. Commonly referred to as the "Star City of the South," Roanoke offers a pleasant downtown feel, numerous views overlooking the valley, and a great place to live. The city's culture is a byproduct of its diverse art scene, fairs/festivals, and an American small town sense of community.

roanoke virginia photo

Interesting Facts

Roanoke is considered by many to be the "Gateway to the Blue Ridge." The city is ideally positioned right along the Blue Ridge Parkway which is a scenic highway known for its stunning views, hiking trails, and other outdoor activities.

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