BRIDGEPORT – The Bridgeport Islanders AHL minor league hockey team – formerly the Sound Tigers – is going back in time on Saturdays during its upcoming 25th anniversary at Total Mortgage Arena while its future may be taking them to Hamilton, Ontario in 2026.
As rumors swirl online that the New York Islanders are contemplating a move to a new TD Coliseum in Hamilton, the Bridgeport franchise announced a new promotion for the 2025-26 season. The team, which is under new New York Islanders general manager Mathieu Darche, announced late last week that it will host 14 “Sound Tigers Saturdays” as part of their 2025-26 regular season schedule.
“As we enter our 25th anniversary season, we’re incredibly proud to honor the history and tradition of professional hockey in Bridgeport,” said Senior Vice President of Business Operations Joe Dolan. “The Sound Tigers logo represents where it all began, a legacy of passionate fans, memorable moments, and a strong connection to our community.”
“Bringing back the Sound Tigers look on Saturday nights is our way of celebrating those roots while creating new memories,” Dolan added. “This season is all about honoring our past while embracing our future, and we can’t wait to share it with everyone.”
The club will wear Sound Tigers sweaters as a third-jersey design during each Saturday home game this season. The revamped design along with additional details regarding “Sound Tigers Saturdays” and the 25th anniversary season will be unveiled later this summer when the full promotional schedule is announced.
An NHL sports writer who covers the American Hockey League reported recently that there have been discussions centered around moving the Bridgeport Islanders to Hamilton to play at the new $300 million TD Coliseum in 2026-27.
At the same time, the organization replaced the full coaching staff after the Bridgeport team finished with a home record of 4-28-1-3, setting the record for the fewest home wins in league history. The new head coach is Rocky Thompson, who was an assistant with the Philadelphia Flyers. He replaced Rick Kowalsky.
As part of the “Battle of Connecticut,” the Islanders will face the Hartford Wolf Pack (New York Rangers affilate) 12 times. The first game is Friday, Oct. 24 in Hartford and returns to Total Mortgage Arena on Saturday, Dec. 6. Other home rivalry dates include Saturday, Dec. 27, Saturday, Jan. 3, Sunday, Jan. 11, Friday, April 3 and Sunday, April 12.
New York Islanders GM Darche was hired on May 23, 2025 to replace Lou Lamoriello. Darche also holds the title of executive vice president.
Darche has already demonstrated a willingness to make changes within the AHL affiliate, having relieved the entire Bridgeport coaching staff after a disappointing season. He is expected to also make changes to the management staff, including the general manager role in Bridgeport.
