El Paso Rhinos Have Celebrated Twentieth Anniversary
The local hockey franchise marks two decades in the community as it kicks off its latest season.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Hockey
The El Paso Rhinos have reached their twentieth anniversary of operations in El Paso. The franchise kicked off its new season while celebrating a history that began in 2006.
Why it matters
The milestone highlights the longevity of the organization, which has become a staple of local sports entertainment since its inception by founder Cory Herman. Its continued presence marks a significant period for hockey in the Texas region.
The El Paso Rhinos have secured four Thorne Cup Championships over their 20 years of existence. The team has participated in the North American Hockey League since 2021.
The players
El Paso Rhinos
This junior hockey franchise has served as a primary sports organization in the city for two decades.
Cory Herman
He is the founder of the El Paso Rhinos and a former player for the El Paso Buzzards.
The details
Founded by former El Paso Buzzards player Cory Herman, the franchise grew from local roots to establish a consistent presence in junior hockey. The team transitioned to the North American Hockey League in 2021, where it continues to compete.
Timeline
The franchise was founded in 2006.
The team joined the North American Hockey League in 2021.
The franchise celebrated its twentieth anniversary in September 2026.
Season Trajectory
The sustained success of the El Paso Rhinos follows the local precedent established by the founding of the El Paso Buzzards. This two-decade run solidifies the organization's role in maintaining a competitive hockey footprint in the region.
The anniversary serves as a benchmark for the franchise as it settles into its newest season in the North American Hockey League. Fans can track the team's progress as it looks to build on its legacy of four championship titles.
The takeaway
The endurance of a local sports franchise often relies on building deep community roots following an initial founding period. Success in minor league hockey is measured by both championship rings and long-term organizational stability.
Further reading
For more on the current status of regional ice sports, explore our Hockey section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KTSM 9 News.
