Fresno Falcons Return to Selland Arena After 17-Year Absence

06 May

Fresno Falcons Are Back: Professional hockey returns downtown after 17-year absence

A Zamboni sits on the Selland Arena floor during Tuesday's announcement that professional hockey is returning to Downtown Fresno. The Fresno Falcons will begin play in the Federal Prospects Hockey League this fall. Photo by Ben Hensley

published on May 6, 2026 - 3:30 PM
Written by Ben Hensley

Professional hockey is returning to Downtown Fresno for the first time in nearly two decades.

City officials and team representatives announced the new Fresno Falcons franchise will begin play this fall at Selland Arena in the Federal Prospects Hockey League.

“I grew up not too distant from the last Falcons season,” said Brian Flores, media consultant with the Fresno Falcons. “I was about nine years old, so it’s kind of surreal.”

The return comes on a five-year deal, according to Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer, who called on the entire Valley to support the franchise.

man walks on the floor of an arena — Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer walks the floor of Selland Arena following the announcement of the Fresno Falcons’ return to Downtown Fresno. The team will play a 28-game home schedule beginning this October. Photo by Ben Hensley

“Having the Fresno Falcons right here at Selland Arena with a 28-home-game schedule, it’s something that should excite everyone in Fresno, as I know it does me,” Dyer said, adding that renewals for the team are on the table. “Hopefully multiple five-year renewals.”

FPHL Commissioner Donald Kirnan said the Fresno community’s reception stood out after years of league expansion efforts.

“After visiting basically 100 places around the country in the last 20 years, the reception I received here from day one, from minute one, was the best I’ve ever received,” Kirnan said.

podium speaker — Fresno City Manager Georgeanne White addresses attendees at Tuesday’s Fresno Falcons announcement at Selland Arena. Seated at the table, from left, are Brian Flores, media consultant; Scott Brand, FPHL managing consultant; and FPHL Commissioner Donald Kirnan. Mayor Jerry Dyer, right, applauds during the event. Photo by Ben Hensley

The Falcons will play their home games at Selland Arena, which previously hosted the team and has served as a hub for local athletics. The team’s 28-game home schedule is expected to drive additional event traffic to the region.

The original Fresno Falcons last played during the 2008-09 season before folding amid financial difficulties and instability within minor league hockey.

FPHL representatives said they are seeking local ownership and management involvement as the franchise prepares for its return. The team also hopes to partner with local school districts, professional sports leagues, and local businesses and organizations.

Ahead of the season’s October opener, Visit Fresno County donated a new scoreboard upgrade that will be installed at Selland Arena prior to the start of play.