Rivermen Win Home Opener at Renovated Carver Arena
The Peoria Rivermen defeated the Pee Dee 4-1 in front of a crowd of 6,539 fans.
Updated on Oct. 25, 2026 in Hockey
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The Peoria Rivermen opened their season with a 4-1 victory over the Pee Dee in the SPHL home opener at Carver Arena. The game saw strong offensive play as the Rivermen capitalized on multiple power play opportunities to secure the win.
Why it matters
The home opener also marked the debut of the Peoria Civic Center's upgraded ice arena, which underwent extensive modernization to improve player safety and facility operations.
Mike McChesney scored two power play goals in a 94-second span during the second period, while the team benefited from 6,539 attendees. The facility upgrades totaled $5 million, covering new pipes, machinery, dasher boards, and glass.
The players
Peoria Rivermen
This professional hockey team plays in the Southern Professional Hockey League and is currently celebrating its 45th season.
Peoria Civic Center
This multi-purpose complex in Peoria serves as the home venue for the Rivermen and houses the Carver Arena.
The details
The Rivermen secured their lead by taking advantage of three consecutive Pee Dee penalties to gain two five-on-three power plays. Additional goals from Carson Riddle and Alec Baer, the latter on an empty net, cemented the team's victory at the newly renovated venue.
Timeline
May 15, 2026: Renovations to the Carver Arena hockey setup began.
October 23, 2026: Renovations to the Carver Arena hockey setup were completed.
October 24, 2026: The Peoria Rivermen defeated the Pee Dee 4-1 in the home opener.
Season Trajectory
This home opener sets the tone for the Rivermen's 45th franchise season as they look to build momentum across the 60-game regular season schedule. The win establishes a strong early-season foothold while the team adapts to the newly renovated ice conditions at Carver Arena.
Fans visiting Carver Arena will experience the functional improvements of the $5 million renovation project during all upcoming home games this season. The team continues to operate under the SPHL rule requiring strict decorum between coaching staffs and officials.
The takeaway
The successful debut of the renovated arena floor provides a safer and more modern environment for both players and spectators this season. Residents can expect consistent operations following the completion of these significant capital improvements.
Further reading
For more on the local team's current performance, visit Peoria Hockey.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Indianapolis Star.
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