Monarchs Fell in First Franchise Game
The Mid-South Monarchs lost 6-3 to the Monroe Moccasins in their debut outing.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Hockey
Live Poll
Do you believe having a local professional hockey team adds value to your community?
The Mid-South Monarchs opened their franchise history with a 6-3 loss against the Monroe Moccasins on October 9, 2026. The expansion team, which plays at the Landers Center in Southaven, was outshot 44-26 in the contest.
Why it matters
The matchup marked the first competitive appearance for the new FPHL expansion club as they begin their inaugural season. The team is now looking to adjust following an early defensive gap that allowed three goals in the first ten minutes.
Monarchs goalie Tommy Nappier recorded 39 saves on 44 shots, while Monroe outshot Mid-South 44-26. Austin Weber contributed two goals for the Monarchs, including part of a sequence where the team scored twice in just 14 seconds.
The players
Mid-South Monarchs
The Mid-South Monarchs are a newly formed FPHL expansion hockey team based in Southaven.
Monroe Moccasins
The Monroe Moccasins are a professional hockey team that competed against the Monarchs in their debut game.
Austin Weber
Austin Weber is a forward for the Mid-South Monarchs who recorded two goals during the franchise opener.
Tommy Nappier
Tommy Nappier is a professional goaltender who made 39 saves in the Monarchs inaugural game.
The details
The Monroe Moccasins established an early lead by scoring three goals in the first ten minutes of play. Despite the slow start, the Monarchs offense found momentum in the second period by netting two quick goals in a span of 14 seconds.
Timeline
October 9, 2026: The Monarchs played their first franchise game.
October 10, 2026: The Monarchs play their second game against the Moccasins.
October 16-17, 2026: The Monarchs participate in upcoming road games.
October 23, 2026: The Monarchs host their home opener at the Landers Center.
The Big Picture
The debut of the Monarchs reflects the ongoing growth strategy established by the Federal Prospects Hockey League (FPHL) expansion cycle. This entry follows the established integration pattern for new clubs joining the professional league.
The Monarchs now head into their October 10 rematch looking to tighten their defensive rotation after facing 44 shots in the opener. Fans should look for adjustments in net as the team prepares for their October 23 home debut at the Landers Center.
The takeaway
The Monarchs inaugural loss highlights the steep learning curve faced by new FPHL expansion teams in their first week of professional play. Maintaining defensive discipline against established opponents will be the primary benchmark for the squad in the coming games.
What happens next
The Monarchs are scheduled to play the Monroe Moccasins again on October 10, 2026, followed by their home opener against the Baton Rouge Kingfish at the Landers Center on October 23, 2026.
Further reading
For more on the current season, visit the Hockey section.
More information
For team schedules and ticket information, visit the team ticket and information website.
Live Poll
Do you believe having a local professional hockey team adds value to your community?
