After months of conjecture, Worcester's new professional hockey team unveiled their team name and crest at the Worcester Hockey Fan Fest at their future home, the DCU Center, 50 Foster St., today, Sunday, April 3.



Introducing your Worcester Railers.



It was important to president and GM, Toby O'Brien and team owner Cliff Rucker to have a team name embedded in the rich history of Worcester. The pair dug through the city's historical records and tapped into the rich rail history that dates back to the 1800s.



With "Railers" emblazoned over a crest consisting of the team's Blue, silver and white crest, a classic steam train charges forth from the seven hills of Worcester (though the hills themselves appear as more aggressive, snow-capped, versions of themselves). Beneath this are crossed hockey sticks, above "HC," representing the inclusive hockey club nature of the team's ideology.



While the Railers' first puck drop won't come until October 2017, the team and its administration plan to continue involving fans up until the first game. Mascot unveiling will come soon, as well as potential NHL affiliation information and the appointment of a head coach and, eventually, player information.



Fan Fest itself was a delight with live music provided by The Chris Conte band, featuring Sam James from TV's The Voice. There was a Hockey Hall of fame exhibit straight from Toronto, the Kelly Cup (for ECHL league champions), giveaways, raffles, Bruins alumni signings, public skating on the DCU ice, food and a 50 yard line ticket giveaway for the New England Patriots season opener. Mascots on hand were the Boston Red Sox's Wally, Pat from the Patriots and Jake from the Worcester Bravehearts.



The free event marked the first of what will be many fan-focused Railers events. For more information, head to Worcesterprohockey.com. Memberships are still available online, with Founder Circle slots still available. Founders Circle memberships include priority season based on member number, up to 25 percent off season ticket prices and more. The required deposit is $50.



Stay tuned for more information on your new professional hockey team, the Worcester Railers.



