The Utah Hockey Club is back to letting its fans help decide on a permanent team name after running into a legal issue with its earlier fan-favorite choice, “Utah Yeti.” Here’s what led to the change and what fans can expect next.
Why the “Utah Yeti” Name Was Dropped
“Utah Yeti” gained popularity during the initial fan vote for the NHL’s new team. However, last week, reports from KSL and The Athletic revealed that the name was no longer an option. Smith Entertainment Group (SEG), which owns the team, tried to secure the rights but faced a roadblock.
A key issue was a trademark conflict with YETI Coolers, LLC. The company refused to allow both brands to coexist under the same name. In a statement, SEG confirmed that they had explored every possible solution before deciding to move on.
Fans to Vote on Three New Options
With “Yeti” out of the picture, fans will now choose between three final names during upcoming home games:
- Utah Hockey Club
- Utah Mammoth
- Utah Wasatch
Utah Hockey Club
This is the team’s current temporary name for the 2024-2025 season and was one of the final options from the original fan vote.
Utah Mammoth
“Mammoth” was another popular choice from the earlier voting phase. Its association with strength and size makes it an appealing option.
Utah Wasatch
This new option wasn’t part of the initial 20 names but is inspired by the Wasatch Mountain Range. The name is meant to symbolize a connection to local geography and the mythical snow creature theme originally tied to “Yeti.”
How Fans Can Participate
Unlike the earlier survey, only fans attending the team’s next four home games at the Delta Center will get the chance to vote. The games scheduled for voting are:
- Wednesday
- Friday
- Sunday
- Tuesday
This vote is unique because fans won’t just be choosing a name—they’ll also see the proposed logos and branding designs. This added element allows them to pick a name that resonates visually with the team’s identity.
What’s Next for the Team Name?
The Utah Hockey Club plans to announce the permanent name before the next season begins. With excitement building, the team is looking for fan engagement and support in finalizing a name that will reflect Utah’s identity in the NHL.
The journey to selecting a name highlights how important fan involvement is to the team’s branding. Although “Utah Yeti” is off the table, the options presented aim to capture the spirit of Utah, its rugged landscapes, and its hockey culture.
