After a 15-year absence, pro hockey will be returning to San Francisco in 2012.

The ECHL announced Tuesday the San Francisco Bulls will join the league for the 2012-13 season and play their home games at the Cow Palace. The Bulls will become the 21st team in the premiere “AA” hockey league, which serves as the primary developmental league for the National Hockey League and the American Hockey League.

The Bulls are owned by a group of investors, led by Pat Curcio and his wife Elouise, who have relocated to San Francisco from Salt Lake City.  Curcio will serve as president, general manager and head coach for San Francisco.

“We are so excited and proud to provide professional hockey to the San Francisco Bay Area,” Curcio said. “The on ice product will be very entertaining and the Cow Palace is the perfect venue for our team.”

Season tickets go on sale Oct. 3. For more information, visit www.echl.com.