NCDC Announces Addition of CT RoughRiders; Organization To Rebrand for the 2026–27 Season

The National Collegiate Development Conference (NCDC) is proud to announce that the Connecticut RoughRiders will join the league beginning in the 2026–27 season. As part of the organization’s sale to new ownership and transition from the Eastern Hockey League (EHL) to the NCDC, the franchise will undergo a full rebrand and compete out of South Norwalk, CT.

This move further strengthens the NCDC’s presence in Southern New England and establishes an enhanced development pathway for aspiring NCAA student-athletes.

The organization will call Sono Ice House in Norwalk, CT, their home. The facility features an NHL-sized rink and a training rink, along with a gym, pro shop, and restaurant. Its proximity to major recruiting corridors and numerous NCAA programs positions the franchise for long-term success.

Ownership noted that the elevation to the NCDC aligns with the organization’s vision of expanding opportunities for players while solidifying its identity within a thriving hockey community.

“We are excited to partner with the NCDC to bring high-level junior hockey to South Norwalk, Connecticut,” Ownership said. “The Jr. RoughRiders have a longstanding history of advancing players to higher levels, and we are eager to continue and expand upon that tradition. We are currently exploring branding options for the 2026-27 season and will conduct a local branding survey to ensure the team’s name and identity reflect the community.”

The RoughRiders organization won an EHL Championship in the 2014–15 season. The addition of the program will continue to strengthen the NCDC and elevate the league’s presence in Southern Connecticut.

“The addition of the Roughriders reflects our continued commitment to providing the nation’s best path for player advancement,” said Tony Zasowski, Deputy Commissioner of the USPHL. “We remain focused on delivering elite competition, professional-level development resources, and unmatched exposure to NCAA programs across all divisions. Bringing South Norwalk into the NCDC further enhances our ability to support players in reaching their college hockey goals.”

The NCDC looks forward to welcoming the soon to be re-named Roughriders for the 2026–27 campaign as they join a rapidly expanding landscape of elite junior hockey across North America.

About the NCDC

The National Collegiate Development Conference (NCDC) is the Tier II junior hockey division of the United States Premier Hockey League (USPHL). Established to provide an unparalleled pathway to NCAA hockey, the NCDC offers elite-level competition, professional coaching, and a proven track record of player advancement to NCAA Division I and III programs, as well as professional leagues. With organizations across the United States and Canada, the NCDC continues to set the standard for player development and exposure at the junior level.