Hudson Valley Minor League Hockey Team “Hibernating” This Season

A local minor league hockey team who has been generating a ton of buzz, has made a shocking announcement for the 2024-2025 season.

Hudson Valley Vipers Move Locations

The Hudson Valley Vipers, a Senior AAA full contact minor-league hockey team part of the American Premier Hockey League, was excited for the 2024-2025 season.

In May 2024, the Hudson Valley Vipers became the APHL 2024 Champions and in December, they announced that they were moving their home rink (aka the "Snake Pit") from the MJN Center in Poughkeepsie to Brewster Ice Arena.

In a statement on Facebook the Hudson Valley Vipers wrote "Thank you to Brewster Ice Arena for joining us for season two. Our first home game is on January 25th where we will raise our championship banner."

However, the latest announcement from the HV Vipers explains there has been a big change.

Local Minor League Hockey Team Postpones Season

On January 2nd, 2025, the Hudson Valley Vipers shared on social media that they will "hibernating" for the season. In the statement they write:

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the "hibernation" of the Hudson Valley Vipers 2024-2025 season.

The postponement comes after careful consideration.

According to the statement the Hudson Valley Vipers are prioritizing the "safety and well-being" of their players adding:

"We believe that the current travel challenges would hinder their ability to compete at the level they desire."

With that being said, players will still be making appearances, booster club activities and events will continue and merchandise is still available. Plus, the Hudson Valley Vipers will still be active on social media.

The Hudson Valley Vipers say they are committed to "regroup, plan, and prepare for a successful 2025-2026 season."

American Premier Hockey League 2025 Season

If you're interested in supporting the APHL there are a handful of teams that you can support, however there's a bit of travel involved.

Teams in the APHL include Buffalo Tempest, Iron City Forge (PA), Toledo Mobsters (OH) and The Kalkaska Battlers (MI).

Learn more about the teams and their schedule at APHLhockey.com.