From the stability and tradition of the Columbus River Dragons to the persistence of the Macon Mayhem, the momentum surrounding the Athens Rock Lobsters, the optimism of Augusta’s returning ECHL franchise, the resurgence of the Atlanta Gladiators, and the grassroots development efforts of the Savannah Ghost Pirates, Rad highlights the unique identity each organization brings to Georgia hockey. Along the way, he argues that Southern hockey culture has evolved into something entirely its own, blending the passion, pride, and community spirit often associated with SEC sports into an atmosphere that is helping hockey thrive in unexpected places.

The episode also examines the broader future of the game in Georgia, including renewed NHL expansion conversations in Atlanta and the growing evidence that hockey is no longer fighting for acceptance in the Peach State. Instead, the question has shifted from whether hockey belongs in Georgia to just how far the sport can go. For longtime fans, newcomers, and anyone curious about the future of hockey in the South, this episode serves as both a snapshot of the current landscape and a celebration of the communities building it.

00:00 – Intro

01:01 – Meet the Host

05:28 – Columbus River Dragons

11:47 – Macon Mayhem

17:34 – Athens Rock Lobsters

21:57 – Augusta Lynx

23:42 – Atlanta Gladiators

26:09 – Savannah Ghost Pirates

29:03 – Recap for the Future

From Columbus to Macon. Athens to Savannah. Duluth to Augusta. Every rink, every fanbase, every rivalry, every story.

Peach State Puck was created to celebrate the people, teams, and communities that are growing the game in a place many people still don't think of as hockey country.

Episode 1 drops next week.

We'll explore why hockey feels different in Georgia, what makes our fan culture unique, and why the future of the sport in the Peach State has never been brighter.

This is just the beginning.

New episodes every week.

Hosted by Matteen Rad.