The Western States Hockey League looks to be returning to the Medford, Oregon area this season, as they return from their hiatus taken in the 2020-21 season. Medford was previously home to the Southern Oregon Spartans, who made the jump to the USPHL last season, but cut their season short due to COVID-19 protocols.
The Spartans began last season, but not in Medford, as they were forced to play their season at an outdoor rink in Klamath Falls, a good 90-minute drive away. With the logistical challenges with their rink and decisions made by the Oregon Health Authority, the team made it only six games into the season before calling things off.
On May 18th, the Spartans announced that they would be opting out of the 2021-22 season as well, with plans to return the following season. In response, The RRRink in Medford indicated that they would be cutting ties with the Spartans, and exploring other options for a team.
Looking to return this season, the WSHL has announced that they will be placing a team in Medford, with The RRRink ownership also owning the team. As reported by the Mail Tribune, the move for the WSHL will be in moving the Barrhead Bombers franchise rights to Medford, while Barrhead will be retaining the name and logos.
Heading up the new Medford team will be head coach Ty Smith, who has previously coached in the WSHL with the Butte Cobras, West Sound Warriors, and Oklahoma City Blazers, and having previously played in the league in Tulsa.
A name-the-team competition has been announced by the WSHL, as they look to establish the new brand in Medford.
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