Peoria Rivermen Owner Inducted into Team's Hall of Fame

Bart Rogers honored for 30 years of dedication to the 44-year-old pro hockey franchise

Apr. 4, 2026 at 9:32am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors, with dynamic brushstrokes capturing the energy and movement of a professional hockey game, the players' forms dissolving into colorful splatters.The induction of Peoria Rivermen owner Bart Rogers into the team's Hall of Fame celebrates his decades-long dedication to the local hockey franchise.Peoria Today

Bart Rogers, the owner of the Peoria Rivermen hockey team, was inducted into the team's Hall of Fame during a special ceremony at a Rivermen game on Friday. Rogers has been involved with the team for the past 30 years, starting as an unpaid intern in 1991-92.

Why it matters

The Rivermen are one of the longest-running professional hockey franchises, and Rogers' long-term dedication and leadership have been instrumental in the team's success and continued operations in Peoria. His induction into the Hall of Fame recognizes his invaluable contributions to the team and the local hockey community.

The details

Rogers was honored during an intermission ceremony at a Rivermen game on Friday, where he was officially inducted into the team's Hall of Fame. The 44-year-old pro hockey franchise has been a fixture in Peoria for decades, and Rogers' involvement stretches back to the early 1990s when he started as an unpaid intern.

  • Rogers began as an unpaid Rivermen intern in 1991-92.
  • He was inducted into the Rivermen Hall of Fame on Friday, April 4, 2026.

The players

Bart Rogers

The owner of the Peoria Rivermen hockey team, who has been involved with the franchise for the past 30 years, starting as an unpaid intern in 1991-92.

Peoria Rivermen

A 44-year-old professional hockey franchise based in Peoria, Illinois.

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What they’re saying

“I started here as an unpaid intern in 1991-92,”

— Bart Rogers, Rivermen Owner

The takeaway

Bart Rogers' induction into the Peoria Rivermen Hall of Fame is a testament to his unwavering commitment and passion for the team over the past three decades. His journey from unpaid intern to team owner highlights the power of dedication and the important role that long-standing local sports franchises can play in a community.