The United States Premier Hockey League (USPHL) has announced the addition of the Florida Surge as a new member of the National Collegiate Development Conference (NCDC) and USPHL Premier, set to begin play in the 2026-27 season.
Based in Jacksonville, FL, the Surge will bring elite-level junior hockey and a proven development model to one of the fastest-growing hockey markets in the Southeast.
The organization will be led by General Manager Steven Oleksy, a Stanley Cup Champion with NHL and AHL experience. Oleksy will oversee all aspects of hockey operations, including player development, recruitment, and team culture.
“This is an exciting opportunity to build a competitive program in a growing hockey community,” said Oleksy. “Our focus will be on developing players for the next level while establishing a strong culture both on and off the ice.”
The Surge ownership group includes Ron Kinnear and Scott Solomon, both of whom bring extensive experience in player development and junior hockey operations. Kinnear currently serves as General Manager of the P.A.L. Junior Islanders and has been instrumental in building successful USPHL programs. Solomon adds more than two decades of experience across playing, coaching, and managing within the collegiate hockey landscape.
“Jacksonville is an emerging hockey market, and we’re excited to bring an NCDC franchise to the area,” said Ownership. “Our goal is to build a first-class program that prioritizes player development and advancement while competing at a high level from day one.”
The team will play its home games at Community First Igloo, a premier facility in Northeast Florida and the practice home of the ECHL’s Jacksonville Icemen. The facility provides a high-level training environment and further strengthens the player development pathway within the region.
“The addition of the Florida Surge continues the NCDC’s commitment to growth in key markets and to providing players with direct pathways to NCAA and professional hockey,” said the USPHL League Office. “Jacksonville is an excellent market for the League, and we look forward to the Surge’s impact both on and off the ice.”
The Florida Surge will begin player recruitment and announce additional staff and organizational details ahead of their inaugural season in Fall 2026.
For more information, visit www.floridasurge.com.
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