WORCESTER, Mass. - The Worcester Railers, along with the DCU Center and the city of Worcester, announced Wednesday that they have agreed on a five-year lease extension with an option for an additional five years. 

What that means for hockey fans in central Massachusetts is that professional hockey and the Railers will be in town for long term. The Railers are in their seventh year in Worcester and fifth playing at the DCU Center.

"It's reassuring for coaches, staff and our fan base especially to really know that this team is going to be here for years to come," said Railers Chief Operating Officer Mike Myers. "And plenty of great hockey, hopefully a lot of playoff hockey too."  

The Railers have also won the ECHL Community Service Team of the Year award four years in a row.