PRESS RELEASE: KIHC Announces Return of Semi-Pro Hockey in Lexington, KY with Launch of Lexington Nightfall
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Matt Menegotto
President, Kentucky Ice Hockey Collective
Email: kentuckyicehockeycollective@gmail.com
LEXINGTON, KY — Hockey is officially back in the Bluegrass.
The Kentucky Ice Hockey Collective (KIHC) is proud to announce the formation of Lexington’s newest semi-professional ice hockey team, the Lexington Nightfall, bringing competitive hockey back to Central Kentucky beginning in 2026.
The Lexington Nightfall will debut with an inaugural season featuring five home games at the Lexington Ice Center, marking a historic return of semi-professional hockey to the city. Built on community, pride, and purpose, the Nightfall are designed to be a team Lexington can rally behind for years to come.
“Hockey has always had a passionate following in Lexington, and the Nightfall are about honoring that history while building something meaningful for the future,” said Matt Menegotto, President of the Kentucky Ice Hockey Collective. “This team exists to bring people together, grow the game, and give back to the community that supports us.”
During their first season, the Lexington Nightfall will compete against first responder and veteran hockey teams from across the country, including teams representing firefighters, law enforcement, and military service members.
In keeping with the organization’s charitable mission, 100 percent of all ticket sales and 100 percent of Chuck-a-Puck proceeds will be donated directly to Central Kentucky–based youth sports organizations and local charities.
“This is about more than wins and losses,” said Brock Ward, Vice President of the Kentucky Ice Hockey Collective. “Every ticket sold directly supports youth sports and local charities. Simply by attending games, Nightfall fans will help make an impact across Central Kentucky.”
As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Kentucky Ice Hockey Collective is dedicated to expanding access to hockey while supporting youth development throughout the region. The organization’s goal is simple: get more kids on the ice, expose them to high-level hockey, and raise meaningful funds for programs that serve young athletes across Central Kentucky.
The puck officially drops on February 21, 2026, when the Lexington Nightfall take the ice at the Lexington Ice Center for their inaugural home game.
Tickets are on sale now at LexingtonNightfall.com.
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Lexington Nightfall 2026 Home Schedule
All games will be played at the Lexington Ice Center.
February 21, 2026
vs. Dayton Firefighters (Dayton, Ohio)
Benefitting: Central Kentucky Hockey Association
February 28, 2026
vs. Wood County FOP Warthogs (Toledo, Ohio)
Benefitting: South Lexington Youth Baseball
March 14, 2026
vs. St. Louis Blues Warriors (St. Louis, Missouri)
Benefitting: Central Kentucky Hockey Association
March 28, 2026
vs. Fort Benning Doughboys (Fort Benning, Georgia)
Benefitting: Fayette County Special Olympics
April 4, 2026
vs. The Kids Hockey Club (Raleigh, North Carolina)
Benefitting: Lexington Dream Factory
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About the Kentucky Ice Hockey Collective
The Kentucky Ice Hockey Collective is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to growing access to the game of hockey both locally and internationally.
Through equipment donations, skills training, and outreach programs, the Collective supports youth hockey initiatives in underserved communities. Its efforts extend beyond Kentucky, with multiple international outreach trips to Costa Rica and Mexico, as well as participation in tournaments across the United States where members work directly with local hockey communities to foster development and growth.
Comprised of passionate players from diverse backgrounds, the Kentucky Ice Hockey Collective is united by a shared belief that hockey should be accessible to everyone. Whether through donating equipment, coaching young players, or competing in charity tournaments, the organization remains committed to helping the game thrive where opportunities are limited.
