Macon, Ga. (WGXA) — Playoff hockey is back in the heart of Georgia.

For the first time in five years, the Macon Mayhem clinched a spot in the SPHL Playoffs; they’re looking to capture their first President’s Cup in almost a decade.

“Playoff hockey, anything can happen,” defenseman parker Allison told WGXA Tuesday.

For the entire season, “patience” was the word that defined the Mayhem.

Just ask forward Jake Goldowski, who’s worn the Mayhem sweater for 171 career games.

“It’s been a long journey,” the alternate captain said “We’ve been such a tight group and everything that it’s just been surreal.”

DID YOU SEE? | Perry High School student taken into custody for bringing knife on campus, report says

They finished the year 26-26-6, clearing the 9th place Quad City storm by just three points to be the last time in the dance.

In fact, they didn’t clinch a playoff spot until game 57 of 58.

Head coach Dave Pszenyczny played in the SPHL for the Mayhem’s first round opponent – the Peoria Rivermen.

“Macon’s been pretty good when I was a player, right?” he said. “(It) kind of went the other way, and now we’re on the rise… we’re really excited about this opportunity.

Despite the season-long adversity, Allison says he’s ready for the opportunity.

“You never know who’s going to be the hero each night,” Allison said. “I know we have the guys who we can lean on each and every night.”

Goldowski mentioned the acquisitions of forwards Michael Herrera and Khaden Henry, who tacked on a combined 24 goals for the team.

IN YOUR COMMUNITY | Sinclair Cares Day of Service brings WGXA volunteers back to Backpack Buddies in Macon

Macon, however, lit the lamp the fewest times out of all 10 teams.

If you ask Pszenyczny, he thinks defense wins championships.

“I think right now, hockey’s a polished sport,” he said. “It’s starting to go back the other way, with the 90s and early 2000s grittiness.”

The Mayhem finished tied for fourth in fewest goals allowed.

For 60 minutes Thursday night, red, white and blue jerseys will be flying across 200 feet of ice.

It’s all-out mayhem, as these 20 players chase those championship dreams.

Macon drops the puck against the Rivermen in Game 1 at the Macon Coliseum tonight.

The game starts at 7:00, but team officials recommend arriving early for a chance to get some special postseason giveaways.