The Kentucky Ice Hockey Collective announced the formation of the Lexington Nightfall, a new semi-professional ice hockey team set to debut in 2026. The team will play its inaugural season at the Lexington Ice Center, featuring five home games beginning Feb. 21.

Organizers say the Nightfall are designed to revive Lexington’s hockey tradition while putting community impact at the forefront.

“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 Nightfall will compete against teams made up of first responders and military veterans from across the country, including firefighter, law enforcement and service-member-based squads.

The team’s charitable mission is central to its operation. One hundred percent of ticket sales and Chuck-a-Puck proceeds from all home games will be donated to Central Kentucky youth sports organizations and local charities.

“This is about more than just putting a team on the ice,” 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.”

The Kentucky Ice Hockey Collective is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on expanding access to hockey and supporting youth development throughout the region. Its broader mission includes equipment donations, skills training and outreach programs, as well as international efforts in countries such as Costa Rica and Mexico.

The Lexington Nightfall’s 2026 home schedule includes matchups against teams from Ohio, Missouri, Georgia and North Carolina, with each game benefiting a different local nonprofit or youth organization.

Lexington Nightfall 2026 Home Schedule

• Feb. 21 | 6:30 PM vs. Dayton Firefighters (benefiting Central Kentucky Hockey Association)
• Feb. 28 | 6:30 PM vs. Wood County FOP Warthogs (benefiting South Lexington Youth Baseball)
• March 14 | 4 PM vs. St. Louis Blues Warriors (benefiting Central Kentucky Hockey Association)
• March 28 | 4 PM vs. Fort Benning Doughboys (benefiting Fayette County Special Olympics)
• April 4 | 2 PM vs. The Kids Hockey Club (benefiting Lexington Dream Factory)

All games will be played at the Lexington Ice Center. Tickets are available now at LexingtonNightfall.com.