opening night - New York Islanders
Transcription
opening night - New York Islanders
S A T U R D A Y, O C T O B E R 6 , 2 0 0 7 OPENING NIGHT presented by a 10-a-game $ ISLANDERS season ticket TEAM for kids STORE I I By Lee Sheridan NYI365 Kids Season Pass - the hottest, most family-friendly offer in pro sports f you haven't made the trip out to the newly renovated n their continued efforts to make New York Islanders "We applaud the Islanders for an innovation that New York Islanders Team Store in the Broadway Mall games the premier destination for Long Island encourages families and young people to attend our in Hicksville, it's time you did. That's because the families, the Islanders are offering a lower level games,” said NHL commissioner Gary Bettman. “This Islanders Team Store has just about everything an Isles fan season ticket for young fans that will cost just $10 a game. could wish for, from authentic team jerseys for the most dedicated fans to bibs and pacifiers for the littlest ones. initiative presents an opportunity to share the excitement of National Hockey League action with even more fans.” Not surprisingly, in the first month since its introduction, this offer has become a hot ticket. The store has a great selection of Islanders t-shirts, name Since the NYI365 KIDS SEASON PASS is for children 12 years of age or younger, tickets will be exclusively and number tees, sweatshirts and hooded sweatshirts, as "The NYI365 KIDS SEASON PASS came about after designed and coded for children. In addition, there will be a well as a full selection of Islanders hats for men, women and (owner) Charles Wang made it clear to us in our off-season separate entrance for families with the pass to enter Nassau children. Golfers can add a bit of the orange and blue to meetings that our organization has three primary goals," Veterans Memorial Coliseum on game days. their game by visiting the store's golf section which features said Chris Dey, Islanders Senior Vice President of Sales, golf bags, head covers, gift sets, golf balls and more. Marketing and Operations. "Our goals are for Islanders "Of course, we want to see all kinds of fans packing our games to be the number one entertainment option for Long games at the Coliseum," said Islanders head coach Ted The new Reebok EDGE jerseys are in and for a limited Island families, to pack the Coliseum for every game and - Nolan. "But let's face it: there's nothing like a jammed hockey time, when you purchase an adult replica or authentic it goes without saying - to bring the Stanley Cup back to barn when there are young fans cheering their hearts out. I jersey at full price, you'll receive a free Reebok garment Long Island." love the fact that Charles is making $10 tickets available for bag (valued at $25). kids. I really hope our fans take advantage of this offer." The one-of-a-kind NYI365 KIDS SEASON PASS gives The Team Store even offers a huge selection of Islanders youngsters 42 games of the best Rick DiPietro, the Islanders The NYI365 KIDS SEASON PASS is available for a collectibles and memorabilia including signed framed and the NHL have to offer - including 4 games versus Sidney limited time only. Fans are encouraged to inquire about photos, autographed sticks and game worn jerseys, plus a Crosby and the Penguins, as well as 4 games each against the ticket availability as soon as possible because the family full collection of mini-banners. Rangers, Devils and Flyers. sections are expected to sell out quickly. If you want to meet your favorite players in person, there's Islanders fans ordering one full adult season ticket at the no better place than at one of the many player-signing club's already discounted prices can reserve the seat next to sessions they're hosting throughout the season. Be sure to them for a child 12 years and younger for the 2007-08 check newyorkislanders.com for dates and player names. season for just $420. Tickets are currently available in designated family sections comprised of lower level seats To take a tour of the New York Islanders Team Store and see all the great new merchandise, go to Islanders TV at newyorkislanders.com and search keyword “store”. 2 I I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d at the Coliseum. Even the NHL commissioner was excited by the Islanders' initiative to bring hockey to more families in New York. NYI365 Kids pass is now available, For more info: 1.800.882.ISLES [email protected] NYI365 Kids Season Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Cover Story: Brendan Witt . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 What Makes You An Islander? . . . . . . . . . 6 Trottier's Home Away From Home . . . . . . 8 Memoirs of an Islanders Fan . . . . . . . . . . 9 Islanders Business Club Profile. . . . . . . . 11 RexCorp Islanders Inspire . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Core of the Four: Stefan Persson. . . . . . . 13 Know Your Islanders: Mike Sillinger . . . . 14 a LETTER FROM Islanders TV. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 CHARLES 07/08 Match-ups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Dear Islanders Fans: Isles Snapshots. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Are you ready for another memorable season of New York Islanders hockey? On the Sound: Dustin Kohn . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Schedule/Theme Nights . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Go Figure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Game Preview/Roster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 2007-2008 Season Preview . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Sound Tigers Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Last season was a magical ride as the team made us so proud by defying the skeptics and never giving up. STAFF EDITORIAL This offseason Garth and Ted continued to build a team that personifies what it means to be an Islander. Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chris Dey VP of Media Relations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chris Botta Editor-in-Chief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jessica Sousa Tuttle Grit. Character. Heart. Managing Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Andrew Miller Associate Editor . . . . . . . . . . Suzanne Keller, Jeanne Borgia Inside each issue of Islanders Illustrated, you'll find the kind of stats, facts and figures you'd expect in a game- Staff Writers . . Neal Bandlow, Jason Lockhart, Lee Sheridan day program, as well as in-depth features about your favorite players. Islanders Illustrated's goal is to provide Contributors . . . . . . . . . . Kimber Auerbach, Josh Bernstein, you with provocative current news and insights on the issues, events, people and players that define our team. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Steve Mears, Corey Witt PRODUCTION On behalf of the entire Islanders organization, thanks for your continued support. We certainly could not do it Art Directors . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tom Rakoczy, John Tomaselli without you. BUSINESS New York Islanders Executive Offices Very Truly Yours, 1535 Old Country Road Plainview, NY 11803 www.newyorkislanders.com CONTACT INFORMATION Main Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.800.882.ISLES Charles B. Wang Owner Ticket Plans & Customer Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 2 Group Sales & Islanders Inspire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 3 Events, Promotions & Community Relations . . . . . . . . Ext. 7 Corporate Partnerships. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 516.501.6752 Individual Game Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 631.888.9000 I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I 3 E ver since Brendan Witt put on a pair of skates at the age of three, he's had an edge on his counterparts. There is often an interesting story about why a player picks a certain position - he enjoyed scoring goals or he liked putting on all the goalie equipment. But unlike the thousands of kids who chose for themselves what position they wanted to play, Witt didn't have much of a choice. “When I played in mites, I was one of the only kids who could skate backwards, so I was put on defense, while the kids who couldn't skate at all were put in goal,” said Witt with a smile. “There was no rhyme or reason.” Moving up the ranks from Mite to Squirt to Bantam, Witt continued to show that he was one of the best at his age. At the age of 14, he was recruited to play for a Midget team in a tournament, which consisted of older players. He made quite the impression, showing signs of his physical presence that would one day earn him a lasting spot in the NHL. “I was just so much bigger than everyone, so I was able to hold my own against kids older than me,” recalled Witt. “In the tournament I was called up for, I remember breaking some 16-year old kid's collar bone. After the game, the parents ragged me about it even though it was a clean hit. When they found out I was only 14, they stopped hassling me.” It was around this time that Witt realized his game would focus around the physical side. While playing for the Seattle Thunderbirds of the WHL, Witt compiled over 200 penalty minutes in each of his three seasons. Witt's impressive play led the Washington Capitals to draft him 11th overall in the 1993 NHL Draft in Quebec. “I realized in Juniors that I had the opportunity to take that next step to reach the pro level,” said Witt. “I had taken all those little steps and needed to make one more big one. It was a lot of sacrifice to play hockey all the time. There was a lot of time spent away from my family at an early age. the ultimate sacrifice You really grow up fast. I don't regret the decision, but I did Defenseman Brendan Witt embodies what it means to have Witt grew up appreciating the games of power forward By Jason Lockhart GRIT. CHARACTER. HEART. 4 I I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d miss experiencing some of the things my friends did.” Witt took full advantage of his opportunity, working as hard as anyone to crack the Capitals line-up. After playing a season with Washington in 1995-96, Witt was sent down to the AHL for 30 games in 1996-97, but that was the only time he would ever spend there. The native of Humboldt, Saskatchewan proved he could compete with the best at the NHL level. His tremendous, hard-nosed intensity on the ice made him one of the most feared defensemen in the league. It's no coincidence that Cam Neely and defenseman Scott Stevens. “People thought it was odd that my hero growing up was right, he's willing to swallow his pride and draw a penalty if Cam Neely, considering I was a defenseman,” admitted someone is jabbing at him during a crucial part of the game. Witt. “But I admired how he was not afraid to get his nose dirty. I also liked Scott Stevens because there isn't anyone A perfect example came last season on March 10 against better who lines people up at open ice and comes at you Washington with the playoff race in full force. After with that much force.” Donald Brashear scored to cut the Islanders lead to 4-2 with just over 13 minutes left in the third period, Brashear After a brilliant ten seasons with the Capitals and a short went after Witt. Through the entire stare down, Witt kept stint with Nashville, Witt brought his hard-hitting style to his hands down, but enticed Brashear just enough to give Long Island and fans immediately took a liking to his no- Witt a blow to the head with his left hand, resulting in an nonsense play. Islanders power play and killing Washington's momentum. That was just one example of Witt taking one for the team, which he does often. Last season, Witt finished fifth in the league with 207 blocked shots. Watching Witt play, especially while on the penalty kill, can give people the chills. Whenever the Islanders were down two men, it was almost certain Witt would be out there. Witt's modus operandi is to challenge the point man and move right into a heavy slapshot that would cripple even the bravest of souls. But despite all of his bangs and bruises, Witt only missed one game all season. “You hope that the protection you have on deflects most of the blow of the shot,” said Witt. “Sometimes it goes in “I try to lead by example and stick up for my team and my goaltenders... It’s important to have a tight group and have each other’s backs.” Brendan Witt between the pads and hits bone. That's when it doesn't feel so good. I learned how to block shots when I was in Seattle and the coach would teach us the right technique by shooting soft rubber pucks at us. The key is to get in the shooting lane, but not slide head first. Now, I don't think too much of blocking shots, it's second nature.” “As one of the leaders on the team, I try to make sure everyone is ready,” said Witt. “But at the same time, I like While Witt won't dazzle you with his offensive production to keep it light in the room. When it comes down the line, - his career high is 14 points in a season - he still can get we hold each other accountable. Nothing is worse than the Coliseum crowd on their feet in the blink of an eye. On when no one takes accountability. I want guys to support more than one occasion, Islanders fans jumped out of their each other. We're in this thing together and it's important to seats to get a better view of the fallen opponent knocked to know what the goal is. I like to have a good atmosphere the ice by the 6-1, 205 pound defender. with the guys. This is like our second family. We're usually with each other more than we are with our families at Witt took a page out of Scott Stevens' book when he lined home, so I like to keep that family atmosphere and have up the shifty Sidney Crosby at center ice last season. everyone together. When we succeed, it's going to be Crosby had just received a pass from Ryan Whitney, when everyone in the room contributing.” a few steps later he went airborne thanks to the hip and arms of Witt. The hit sparked a mini-brawl, in which Witt Witt is only one player on the Islanders, but his impact on was more than capable of holding his own. the team in only one season has been invaluable. Nothing less should be expected in year two from a player who He doesn't drop the gloves often (only five times during prides himself on consistency. the 2006-07 season), but he's not afraid to defend himself and his teammates. “I strive to be consistent with my play year round,” said Witt. “We all know our roles. I know I'm not going to get “I try to lead by example and stick up for my team and my 30 points. My role is to be intimidating in key situations goaltenders,” said Witt. “My teammates are like my and contribute to a win. That's all that matters. If I don't get second family next to my wife and kids. It's important to a lot of glory, I'm okay.” have a tight group and have each other's backs.” He may not get much glory on the score sheet, but Witt There is a time and a place for sticking up for each other, but certainly has the respect of his teammates and coaching Witt is as smart a player as there is in the NHL. If the time is staff and the love of the fans. I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I 5 What makes you an Islander? Over the summer months, we sent out an appeal to fans BethAnn Caputo on our website to tell us what exactly it was that made Flagstaff, Arizona them Islanders. Within hours, our inboxes were flooded with a bevy of quotes, quips and one-liners from Islanders fans from all over the planet. This deluge of responses continues to this day, because whether they're right here in Nassau County or halfway around the globe, Isles fans always have something to say. Tell us what makes YOU an Islander. Go to newyorkislanders.com and click on Fan Zone. Last winter I was performing as a lead in a show at Broad Hollow Theatre in West Islip that caused me to miss a ton of Islanders games. I would bring a beat up old headset to rehearsals that only got reception if I stood at a certain spot outside the back door to the theatre near the dressing room. The first game I missed I took glow-in-the-dark duct tape with me to rehearsal and marked the exact spot I could stand to get the game on the head set. The Islanders were playing on opening night, so of course, I had to bring the head set. Whenever I had more than five minutes off stage, I would grab the head set and rush outside to listen to the game. I would have full inboxes of text messages with the scores from my friends that were stationed at their TV sets for me. After the curtain call, the Islanders were still playing so I grabbed my costumes and ran to my car to turn on the radio just in time to hear that DiPietro had made a game winning save! I hadn't forgotten a line all night, the Islanders had a victory, and I was about to speed 23 miles on the Southern State to celebrate before 11:00 p.m. It is for nights and moments like this, that I am an Islander. Brian Mundy Eileen McLafferty Mahopac, New York Hicksville, NY Don't you start getting goose bumps this time of year? Just knowing the hockey season is just around the corner is making me crazy. Every fan of every team knows what I mean. You're sitting around all summer watching a little baseball here and there during the hot weather. Then August comes and most teams are wrapping up their signings and finalizing their pre-season roster. You've got a pretty good read on what your team may look like on the ice in the fall. And all of a sudden it's September and in a couple of weeks, your favorite team will begin its quest for the most heralded trophy in all of sports - the Stanley Cup. We all have that warm feeling, the excitement, the optimism. Optimism regardless of what the experts have said and written about our teams in the off-season. You still have that glimmer of hope that your team, regardless of how far down in the standings it is predicted to finish, can pull it off. That is exactly how I feel right now. I have hope. Hope that the Islanders will bring back the Cup. Hope that there will be a new banner in the rafters next year. I have hope. Therefore, I'm an Islander. We're all Islanders. Let's go ISL-AN-DERS! I LOVE living on Long Island. I could never imagine living anywhere else. Most of my family lives on Long Island and we always share good times together. My brother has always been an Isles fan, but I never thought I would ever become such an avid fan myself. Even my mom and grandparents watch each game, and my grandfather enjoys hockey more than baseball. I'm really happy that my boyfriend brought me to every home game last season, and he plans to bring me this season as well. Eventually he'll catch me looking at Ricky, but that's something that he'll have to deal with! 6 I I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I 7 trottier’s long island family portrait By Chris Botta The story of the Hall of Fame center and the Amendola family of Lloyd Harbor is another illustration of how We're All Islanders. W arren and Pat Amendola of Huntington have Immediately, Bryan fit in with the rest of the four sons. The oldest is named Warren Jr., boys. Raised with impeccable manners by but they call him Ren or Renny. The his mom and dad, the Islanders' rookie lived youngest's name is Rick and just a couple of years older with the rules of the household and never than him is Russ. And then there's their other son. He goes took what the Amendolas were doing for by the name of Bryan Trottier. him for granted. Trottier gained their trust and affection so quickly; they wanted Bryan A long time ago in a land not far from Nassau Coliseum, a to know their home was his home. future member of the Hockey Hall of Fame lived with a Mondays became “Open House Night,” local family during his first NHL season. Bryan Trottier, meaning Bryan could bring over as many the NHL Rookie of the Year in 1975-76, boarded at the friends as he wanted. Gerry Hart came. home of the Amendolas, then of Lloyd Harbor. So did Clark Gillies. Denis Potvin. J.P. Parise. Sometimes they all came to dinner “They are my second family,” Trottier said. “They're such on the same night. special people that my own family is not insulted when they hear me say that. When I think of the people “Those nights were a lot of fun,” said Warren. “The only Current to New York and the NHL - remember this: responsible for helping my career get off to such a good thing better than Monday nights at the Amendolas,” said Bryan Trottier was not a first overall pick, a projected start on Long Island, I think of my coaches, my teammates Bryan, “was Friday nights with the Amendolas at their franchise player. In 1974, he was drafted in the second and the Amendolas.” favorite Italian restaurant.” round. The only player taken in the 21 picks before him to come close to matching his accomplishments was the It's hard to imagine Rick DiPietro or Chris Campoli or If you were Rick Amendola, the youngest, it was pretty Islanders' first round pick, his future linemate and fellow Sean Bergenheim bunking with a Long Island family for cool to have the Islanders' star rookie as a big brother. Hall of Famer, Clark Gillies. their first full NHL seasons, but it certainly worked for Every so often, Trotts would go to Cold Spring Harbor When Gillies had his number Trottier. Although he was just 20-years old at the time, the kid from Val Marie, Saskatchewan was wise enough to know he “I tell people all the time that I was born in Saskatchewan, but grew up on Long Island.” Bryan Trottier, NHL Hall of Famer retired, he asked his best friend from the Islanders, Billy Harris, to cut the ribbon to raise his banner to the wasn't ready to tackle the real world alone. So on the first day of practice after making High School with Rick. “If you think Bryan was a good rafters. Clark cited Harry-O as the man who made him feel the big club, he told everyone in earshot that he was ice hockey player,” Rick said, “you should have seen him at home on Long Island in his rookie year. Trottier's choice looking for a family to take him in. play rod hockey. You know Bryan - he played to win. But was equally easy and for the same reasons. On Bryan my favorite memory was the day he left Islanders practice Trottier Day, Oct. 20, 2001, Warren and Pat Amendola did Warren Amendola was at practice in Farmingdale that day. right after to come to school and help my friends and me the honors. At the time he owned Koho, the hockey equipment build the senior float.” “I wanted them there for everything they did for me,” said manufacturer. Warren and his wife already had three children of their own and had never been billets before, like Having a family to go home to was everything to Trottier, Trottier. “They were the first people to take me under their families across Canada are for junior hockey league whose preference for quiet nights was a legendary part of wings. But really, everyone I met on Long Island did. I tell players. “But we had the room,” said Pat Amendola, “so we his greatness. When you consider the brilliance of his people all the time that I was born in Saskatchewan, but figured, why not?” rookie season - the stunningly successful jump from Swift grew up on Long Island.” 8 I I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d Takingthe plunge: Season tickets I memoirs of an islanders fan the home openers By the readers of newyorkislanders.com f you’re a New York Islanders fan without a season ticket plan, it’s time you got on board. There are countless reasons why you should dive in. First off, with a Full Season Plan, you’ll save up to 50% off Box Office prices – that’s right – half off! What’s more, with your NYI365 Membership (included with Full Season Tickets) you’ll enjoy some of the best perks in all of T T pro sports, like the exclusive NYI365 Autograph Party, hockey shared with baseball in 1994 made for a good and the new online “Islanders Account Manager.” Best of home game since the playoffs of the 2003-04 season due to growing-up experience as a 15-year old sports nut from St. all, you won’t miss a single minute of the action. the lockout that occurred during the ‘04-‘05 season. The James. But like any devout fan, the same executives that I place was sold out and rocking. Everything about that night had cursed for keeping the players off the ice I had praised “I’ve learned to enjoy the camaraderie of fellow season was great. The giveaway was mini Stanley Cups to all the for giving fans a 48-game season where any team had a ticket holders…it’s like having a unique family away from fans. It was a successful return for hockey on Long Island. shot at the Cup. Dusting off my jersey and cap, I was ready. home,” said Wayne Cimons, season ticket holder since Scoring lower level tickets to the season and home opener 2003. he best home opener in my opinion was the home opener of the 2005-06 season. This was a game against the Carolina Hurricanes in which the Islanders won the game 3-2. This was the Islanders first Alex Garden City, NY A fter the lockout I was away at school in Ithaca, New York but I got in my car and drove the 250 miles to arrive for the 2005 home opener against Carolina. Re-immersing myself back into the Coliseum was one of the most special feelings I have ever had. Gone he '94-'95 NHL lockout had ended just ten days guaranteed same seats for the playoffs, Nassau Coliseum prior. It had been a long winter without the Event Presales, Bonus Seats, “Bring a Friend Nights,” Islanders, and coming to realize the problems Open Practice Sessions, NYI365 Member Discount Card vs. the Panthers was going to make it even sweeter. The pre-game atmosphere was electric as the sellout crowd Bringing the younger members of your family just got donned jerseys like Turgeon, Thomas, Ferraro and King. easier and more affordable, thanks to the NYI365 Kids The crowd gave their favorite Islanders a roaring welcome Season Pass. Just purchase a Full Season Plan Ticket in one home to Long Island. But tonight would be a night for new of the new Family Sections and you can add on an NYI365 Islanders to take center stage as future Islander star Ziggy Kids Season Pass for just $420! That’s just $10 per game! Palffy and newly acquired Tommy Soderstrom won the game's first two stars as the Islanders defeated the Panthers If you’re still on the fence over whether or not to buy 2-1. That winter night was a reminder of how inspirational season tickets, Lawrence Ziegler, a season ticket holder winning the opener can be. since 1993, thinks of it in these terms: “It’s a lot of fun and Coliseum. The next morning I was back in my car driving Ethan Jacoby TV doesn’t do the game justice. [The best part is] the fact I back to college, but my memories of that 2005-06 home Newington, CT have a great seat for every home game.” Check back to newyorkislanders.com for your chance to You can’t argue with that logic. were talks of a new CBA and back were 16,233 screaming fans-plus me. That night, as a fan, I was able to re-claim what has been a big part of my life - my seat at the opener, I will cherish forever. Dan Marrazza Denville, NJ submit your stories for an upcoming edition of “Memoirs of an Islanders Fan” in Islanders Illustrated. For more information, call: 1.800.882.ISLES I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I 9 N/A 80 $ 70 $ 70 $ 62 $ 55 $ 49 N/A 10 I I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d N/A $ N/A islanders business club member profile T he Islanders Business Club is a business and social network that was created to help businesses get the most out of their relationships with the Islanders and our partners. Islanders Hall of Famer, Mike Bossy proudly serves as Islanders Business Club Executive Director. As members of the club, businesses will have the opportunity to attend several pre-game networking events throughout the year, while promoting themselves on the web, in print and in arena. IslES vs. Buffalo Sabres OPENING NIGHT Direct Mail Services Wednesday, October 10, 2007 @ 7PM What sets your business apart from similar ones on ISLANDERS MEAN BUSINESS Long Island? Talon is a well-known company that has the Saturday, November 3, 2007 @ 7PM experience, personnel and technology to assist AL ARBOUR NIGHT, #1,500 organizations in growing both their businesses and their IslES vs. BOSTON BRUINS client bases by using Direct Marketing. We're small Saturday, November 24, 2007 @ 7PM enough to give our clients personal attention, but big TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN NIGHT enough to handle even the most complex endeavors. PRE-GAME NETWORKING www.islandersbusinessclub.com will launch in October 2007 and will be prominently featured on the New York Islanders website (newyorkislanders.com). Participating businesses will be featured in this site's business directory page along with their company name, business description, contact information and a link to their company's website. Valued at $400. www.talon-mailing.com Describe the nature of your business: IslES vs. PITTSBURGH PENGUINS WEBSITE President, Talon Mailing & Marketing, Inc. Saturday, October 6, 2007 @7PM IslES vs. NEW YORK RANGERS This season, the club will host seven networking events one-hour prior to some of our biggest games this season. Each event will feature highly recognized business, sports and political leaders, such as Charles B. Wang, owner of the New York Islanders, as well as complimentary refreshments. Additional invitations can be purchased at $25 per ticket, per event. Michael Borkan, IslES vs. Atlanta thrasherS Saturday, December 1, 2007 @ 7PM Describe the business climate on Long Island as it TOWN OF OYSTER BAY NIGHT pertains to your company. IslES vs. NEW JERSEY DEVILS The business climate on Long Island is a strong one Saturday, December 29, 2007 @ 7PM and as a result, Talon continues to grow by working TOWN OF BABYLON NIGHT with both well-known organizations and smaller up IslES vs. CAROLINA HURRICANES and coming companies. Monday, January 21, 2008 @ 2PM LONG ISLAND HOCKEY FEST What drew you to becoming a charter member of the Islanders Business Club? I love sports and business marketing so the Islanders Business Club is a perfect fit for me. EXECUTIVE PROFILE An Executive Profile feature is also planned for the site, enabling visitors to get an in-depth look at various community business leaders. Valued at $500. What do you hope to get out of your membership? ISLANDERS ILLUSTRATED their businesses. I hope to meet some great people and make new friends, help grow my business and help others grow Islanders Illustrated is the team's new game-day magazine that is being distributed to all fans this season. The Islanders Mean Business Night issue of Islanders Illustrated will focus on Islanders Business Club members and be distributed to the more than 16,000 fans who attend that night's game versus the New York Rangers. Valued at $350. [email protected] CLUB MEMBERSHIP IS ONLY $850* *New York Islanders season or partial ticket plan required. Prices starting at $385. (A $1,250 VALUE) To learn more about building a partnership with the Islanders, call Catie Bennett at: 516.501.6703 Why should other businesses join the Islanders Business Club? Because it's fun, it's a great way to meet new people, and it's an exciting way to grow a business. I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I 11 21- game all-star plan F or those of you who just can't commit to a full season of hockey, the 21-Game Plan may be just what you need. This plan includes some of our most sought after tickets, including Opening Night, Al Arbour Night, #1,500 and three games versus the Rangers. Best of all, with tickets starting at just $40 per seat, per game, the 21-Game Plan is one of our most affordable plans, too. Join guerin & Comrie as the ISLANDERS INSPIRE Here's how you can assist the newest Islanders in hosting children in need at Islanders games By Neal Bandlow B ill Guerin and Mike Comrie arrived for their every bit as important to the charities as the game tickets. introductory press conference in July with a Working with REXCORP ISLANDERS INSPIRE, we're going charitable announcement they wanted to make to make this a day or night these children will never forget." on their own. Coincidentally, the Islanders had a brandPlan Features: new community initiative that was a perfect fit for the new There are several ways for area businesses to get involved • Receive up to 20% off face value prices Islanders' vision. with REXCORP ISLANDERS INSPIRE. For more information on this charitable program, please call 1.800.882.ISLES • The best 21 games of the season • 3 games each vs. Rangers & Penguins • 2 games each vs. Flyers & Devils Guerin and Comrie - meet REXCORP ISLANDERS INSPIRE, • Go to the best theme nights: Opening Night, Al Arbour Night, #1,500, Core of the Four role in affording positive life experiences to thousands of "No matter the level," said Mike Comrie, "we encourage Long Island children. Long Islanders to join us in making a difference in the lives • Guaranteed same seats for all 21 games and 2007-2008 Stanley Cup Playoffs • Discounted pre-paid parking option ext. 3 or email [email protected]. designed for companies on Long Island to take an active of young children by participating in REXCORP ISLANDERS "Mike Comrie and I talked a few times about making an INSPIRE.” immediate impact on the Long Island community," Guerin said. Plan GAMES: "We decided we would each IslES vs. Buffalo Sabres contribute Saturday, October 6, 2007 @7PM OPENING NIGHT MAGNETIC SCHEDULE, COURTESY OF GLOBAL REAL ESTATE SERVICES - ALL FANS money towards bringing children to Islanders IslES vs. WASHINGTON CAPITALS Monday, October 8, 2007 @ 2PM KIDS’ OPENING DAY DIPIETRO YOUTH REPLICA JERSEY, COURTESY OF REXCORP ISLANDERS INSPIRE - ALL KIDS games. When we showed up for IslES vs. NEW YORK RANGERS the press conference and told the Wednesday, October 10, 2007 @ 7PM ISLANDERS MEAN BUSINESS IslES vs. PITTSBURGH PENGUINS Islanders what we wanted to do, Bill Guerin MINI REPLICA BANNER, COURTESY OF DAVIS VISION - ALL FANS that's when we learned about REXCORP ISLANDERS IslES vs. NEW JERSEY DEVILS INSPIRE. Mike and I looked at each other and we were like, Saturday, November 10, 2007 @ 7PM MILITARY APPRECIATION NIGHT COLLECTIBLE HAT (3 OF 3), COURTESY OF FOX SPORTS NEW YORK - FIRST 10,000 FANS 'Perfect. That's it.'" Since then, several Islanders have IslES vs. MONTREAL CANADIENS joined the Islanders Inspire initiative, including Rick Saturday, November 3, 2007 @ 7PM AL ARBOUR NIGHT, #1,500 Wednesday, November 21, 2007 @ 7PM ISLANDERS CHILDREN’S FOUNDATION NIGHT DiPietro, Jon Sim and Ruslan Fedotenko. REXCORP ISLANDERS INSPIRE is a turn-key program that is fully managed by the Islanders professional operations staff and includes the following benefits for the children: IslES vs. BOSTON BRUINS Saturday, November 24, 2007 @ 7PM TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN NIGHT T-SHIRT, COURTESY OF MR. JAY APPLIANCES AND TV - ALL KIDS IslES vs. Atlanta thrasherS Saturday, December 1, 2007 @ 7PM TOWN OF OYSTER BAY NIGHT MIKE SILLINGER MINI-BOBBLEHEAD, COURTESY OF BORO RECYCLING - FIRST 10,000 FANS IslES vs. PITTSBURGH PENGUINS Saturday, December 15, 2007 @ 7PM IslES vs. Washington capitals REXCORP ISLANDERS INSPIRE is an initiative developed by the Islanders following suggestions from long-time • Round trip bus transportation corporate sponsors and season ticketholders. The franchise • Islanders gift for each child and its extended family of sponsors and fans realized that so Saturday, December 22, 2007 @ 7PM HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS many continue to reflect on the IslES vs. NEW JERSEY DEVILS experiences we had as children Saturday, December 29, 2007 @ 7PM TOWN OF BABYLON NIGHT KNIT HAT - FIRST 10,000 FANS IslES vs. PHILADELPHIA FLYERS Saturday, January 19, 2008 @ 7PM TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD NIGHT BILL GUERIN MINI-BOBBLEHEAD, COURTESY OF ALLSTATE - FIRST 10,000 FANS IslES vs. CAROLINA HURRICANES Monday, January 21, 2008 @ 2PM LONG ISLAND HOCKEY FEST IslES vs. ATLANTA THRASHERS Saturday, February 16, 2008 @ 7PM RICK DIPIETRO BOBBLEHEAD NIGHT RICK DIPIETRO MINI-BOBBLEHEAD, COURTESY OF GEICO - FIRST 10,000 FANS IslES vs. SAN JOSE SHARKS Monday, February 18, 2008 @ 2PM KIDS’ DAY, TOO PUCK BANK, COURTESY OF NEW YORK COMMUNITY BANK - ALL KIDS IslES vs. PITTSBURGH PENGUINS Tuesday, February 26, 2008 @ 7PM IslES vs. PHILADELPHIA FLYERS Saturday, March 1, 2008 @ 2PM FAN APPRECIATION DAY PARTICIPATION BENEFITS INCLUDE: attending Islanders games, or more recently, as • PA & scoreboard recognition of your community efforts parents attending with our children. • Website recognition on newyorkislanders.com These game experiences have created a lifetime of memories for our families. REXCORP Mike Comrie ISLANDERS INSPIRE allows the Long Island business community the opportunity to create those same memories for thousands of children on Long Island that might not otherwise get the chance. Because We're All Islanders. TEAM POSTER, COURTESY OF VALTECH - ALL FANS IslES vs. FLORIDA PANTHERS Sunday, March 2, 2008 @ 3PM CORE OF THE FOUR IslES vs. NEW YORK RANGERS Through the contributions of Guerin and Comrie, more than Thursday, March 6, 2008 @ 7PM 100 Long Island children will attend 21 Islanders home IslES vs. Toronto maple leafS games this season. The Islanders will provide bus Tuesday, March 18, 2008 @ 7PM IslES vs. NEW YORK RANGERS Thursday, April 3, 2008 @ 7PM 12 I I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d • Block of 100 tickets transportation to and from Nassau Coliseum. Said Bill Guerin's wife, Kara: "What you find is the transportation is • Signed Islanders hockey puck for the office • Four (4) VIP tickets to corresponding game including hospitality and complimentary VIP parking Actual Value of Package - $7,675 Total Islanders Inspire Price - $3,600 TO PURCHASE A rexcorp ISLANDERS INSPIRE PACKAGE OR For more info: 1.800.882.ISLES EXT. 3 [email protected] CORE OF THE FOUR borrelli’s STEFAN PERSSON 14-game championship plan I f your weekday schedule is booked solid, the new Borrelli's 14-Game Championship Plan is the way to go. It features 12 weekend/holiday games (including the Core of the Four game) with 2 weekday games versus the Rangers thrown in for good measure. 14-game plan prices start at just $44 per seat, per game. Plan Features: • Receive up to 15% off face value prices • Gift from Borrelli’s Italian Restaurant • Primarily weekend & holiday games • 2 games each vs. Rangers & Penguins • Games vs. Flyers & Devils • Al Arbour Night, #1,500, Core of the Four • Guaranteed same seats for all 14 games and 2007-2008 Stanley Cup Playoffs Butch Goring (left) and Stefan Persson (right) with the Stanley Cup following Isles dismissal of the North Stars. The Islanders will honor the 17 players that comprised the Islanders dynasty, along with GM Bill Torrey and Coach Al Arbour at the Core of the Four Celebration on Sunday, March 2 at 2:00 pm when the team hosts the Florida Panthers. This is one in a series of tributes to the members of the Core of the Four. By Jason Lockhart • Discounted pre-paid parking option Plan GAMES: IslES vs. Buffalo Sabres Saturday, October 6, 2007 @7PM OPENING NIGHT S MAGNETIC SCHEDULE, COURTESY OF GLOBAL REAL ESTATE SERVICES - ALL FANS elected in the 14th round of the 1974 NHL Entry nearly 30 percent of their chances. No NHL team since Draft - yes, you read that correctly - defenseman has come close to that kind of sustained efficiency. IslES vs. NEW YORK RANGERS But Stefan was no slouch at even strength, either. He and IslES vs. PITTSBURGH PENGUINS Wednesday, October 10, 2007 @ 7PM ISLANDERS MEAN BUSINESS Stefan Persson was as integral a member of the Core of the Four as any Islanders player. Saturday, November 3, 2007 @ 7PM AL ARBOUR NIGHT, #1,500 Dave Langevin, his longtime regular partner, offered a MINI REPLICA BANNER, COURTESY OF DAVIS VISION - ALL FANS In the days before NHL teams heavily scouted Europeans, No. 2 pairing that most teams would have been happy to IslES vs. BOSTON BRUINS it was often possible to unearth potential stars that no one feature as their top unit. Persson's passing and Saturday, November 24, 2007 @ 7PM TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN NIGHT else knew about. Such was the case with Persson, a native puckhandling skills were a perfect match for “Bammer's” of Umea, Sweden, and the first player from his town to physical style of play and ability to clear the slot. T-SHIRT, COURTESY OF MR. JAY APPLIANCES AND TV - ALL KIDS IslES vs. Atlanta thrasherS Saturday, December 1, 2007 @ 7PM TOWN OF OYSTER BAY NIGHT MIKE SILLINGER MINI-BOBBLEHEAD, COURTESY OF BORO RECYCLING - FIRST 10,000 FANS make the NHL. Persson spent two more seasons developing in Sweden before deciding it was time to come Persson was key in the 1980 Cup Final against to North America. He stepped in to the Isles' line-up as if Philadelphia, where the Isles' special teams destroyed the he had played in the NHL for years, providing puck- Flyers. Persson's powerplay goal with 3:42 left in handling and passing that belied his lack of North regulation sent Game 1 into overtime, where Potvin scored American experience. the game-winner and Stefan added a pair of powerplay setups to fuel a 6-2 victory in Game 3. In all, the Isles had a IslES vs. PITTSBURGH PENGUINS Saturday, December 15, 2007 @ 7PM IslES vs. Washington capitals Saturday, December 22, 2007 @ 7PM HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS IslES vs. NEW JERSEY DEVILS Saturday, December 29, 2007 @ 7PM TOWN OF BABYLON NIGHT KNIT HAT - FIRST 10,000 FANS As a 23-year old rookie in 1977-78, Stefan rang up 50 record 15 powerplay goals. And Persson was a key to IslES vs. PHILADELPHIA FLYERS assists, an NHL record for rookie defensemen (his 56 making the extra man a real advantage, finishing the Isles' Saturday, January 19, 2008 @ 7PM TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD NIGHT points as a first year blueliner is a team record that that still run to their first Cup with 5 goals and 15 points. stands). He was at his most dangerous on the power play, BILL GUERIN MINI-BOBBLEHEAD, COURTESY OF ALLSTATE - FIRST 10,000 FANS IslES vs. CAROLINA HURRICANES Monday, January 21, 2008 @ 2PM LONG ISLAND HOCKEY FEST handling the right point with Denis Potvin on the other Stefan kept contributing, serving as a key member on all side. He was a smooth puckhandler, smart passer and four Cup winners (though he had to take his 1981 victory superb tactician - a perfect complement for Potvin. lap after having watched the game from the press box due IslES vs. ATLANTA THRASHERS Saturday, February 16, 2008 @ 7PM RICK DIPIETRO BOBBLEHEAD NIGHT RICK DIPIETRO MINI-BOBBLEHEAD, COURTESY OF GEICO - FIRST 10,000 FANS to a broken jaw). He was a valued Islander until his IslES vs. SAN JOSE SHARKS In each of Persson's first two NHL seasons, the Isles retirement after the 1985-86 season - too soon for most PUCK BANK, COURTESY OF NEW YORK COMMUNITY BANK - ALL KIDS converted on more than 31 percent of their powerplay Islanders fans. He was the perfect complementary player chances. on one of the best, most versatile defense units the NHL Sunday, March 2, 2008 @ 3PM CORE OF THE FOUR has ever seen - and a joy to watch. IslES vs. NEW YORK RANGERS In 1980-81, with Potvin and Persson orchestrating the attack from the blue line, the Isles set an NHL record with 93 powerplay goals while converting Monday, February 18, 2008 @ 2PM KIDS’ DAY, TOO IslES vs. FLORIDA PANTHERS Thursday, April 3, 2008 @ 7PM I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I 13 M ike Sillinger enters his 17th NHL season and is only getting better with age. After producing a career year in 2005-06 by scoring 32 goals and finishing with 63 points, he followed that up with an impressive first year on Long Island. While playing against the opposition's top lines game after game, Sillinger totaled 26 goals and 33 assists for 59 points. In addition, he finished with a +5 rating, 11 power play goals, and three game winners, while tying for the team lead with two shorthanded tallies. Perhaps Sillinger's biggest contribution on the ice was in the face-off category, in which he won 58.8% of his draws, placing him third in the league. As one of the team's alternate captains, Sillinger was an invaluable member of the team, not only while on the ice, but in the locker room as well. His calm demeanor and likeable personality made him an easy fit into the Islanders' dressing room. Now entering his second season with the Islanders and approaching his 1,000th NHL game, Sillinger looks to continue his role as one of the top defensive forwards in the league. We sat down recently with Sillinger to discuss his thoughts on a variety of topics. What was your first NHL season like? When I was back in juniors, I broke into the league as a scorer. In juniors, I had three 50-goal seasons. When I started with Detroit they had guys like Steve Yzerman and Dino Ciccarelli. It was a great organization, so it was tough to get your feet wet and I pretty much broke in as a fourth line, penalty-kill guy, and it was one of those things that if you didn't know how to play both ends of the rink, you weren't going to play. As far as face-offs, when you're killing a lot of penalties you're taking a lot of defensive zone face-offs, so if you're not winning the face-offs you're not going to get on the ice to kill penalties. So they kind of went hand-in-hand and that's how I developed my two-way game. I wasn't given much of a chance to show my offensive skill at a young age. I was put into the role of being a defensive forward. What is the key to staying in the NHL for so long? KNOW YOUR ISLANDERS: mike sillinger By Jason Lockhart faceoff specialist & top two-way forward For longevity you have to stay injury-free, and that's something I've been able to do. I've been pretty lucky knock on wood - playing 70-plus games a year. I'm playing in my 17th season and I don't know where it's gone. When did you begin playing hockey? I was a young kid who loved hockey. From the time I was three or four years old I would have my skates put on for me. I picked it up real easy. I would skate around at that age and stickhandle well. I was fortunate to have natural talent. I wasn't pushed by my parents. It was just something that I loved. We had a rink right outside our house and I'd put on my skates and go out and skate. When I was seven or eight, 14 I I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I would play with the 10, 11 and 12-year olds. I would come home every day and go skate. To this day I still love it. I'm fortunate to be successful at it. Who is the best leader you ever played with? shoes to fill, but he always finds a way to get it done. I've heard nothing but good things about Guerin, not just on the ice but off the ice as well. Naming him captain was a good thing for this team. I look forward to getting acquainted with all of the new players. I broke into the Detroit organization, so I would have to go with Steve Yzerman. He wasn't always the biggest guy. He was always the hardest worker and trying to better himself. Steve would be the first one on the ice and the last one off. You could see the dedication to the game. He wasn't a very vocal guy, but when he would speak, people listened. He was one of the best leaders by example. What you put in, you get out and that's what Steve is all about. What were your goals for training camp? Now that you have a year under your belt on Long Island, what adjustments do you make in your second season? I'm going to pretty much carry on the same way. Now that I've been here a year, I can keep a better eye out for the up and coming guys. As an experienced player, I try to make everyone feel comfortable. Last year, I had to do that myself since I didn't know too many people, but now it's my turn to return the favor. During training camp, I just try to get my timing back. Obviously my conditioning isn't quite there when I first get to training camp, since I've been off the ice for three months. Over the summer I let my body heal, so I do just off-ice conditioning. This first week is all about timing; making crisp passes, doing the drills right and everything at high tempo. You're not used to doing things at high tempo. You need to get your skating legs and the quickness back. What is it like playing under Ted Nolan? I got to experience playing under a great coach last season. He lets the players play and is very calm and cool on the bench. When he gets excited there is a reason. By him showing composure, it really relaxes the players. Ted comes very prepared to practices and runs them well. He knows about both teams well, but he doesn't worry so much about the opposition. People said he was a player's What activities did you do in the summer? I was at home back in Regina for the summer with my family. On the weekends we would head to our lake house for relaxation. My three boys play a lot of sports during the school year - hockey, soccer, lacrosse - so the summer is a nice time for them to get away from it for a little while. What's the feeling like for the home opener? It's exciting to get back on the ice after not playing for five months. You get that blood fever going again. There's that anticipation of getting through training camp and back to full-speed playing conditions. What are your thoughts on the increased home and home series? coach and it's true. As a coach, it's your job to get the most Rivalries are always nice, so you should see some extra fire out of all 23 players and he found a way to do it. in those back-to-back games. How much do you know about the new forwards on the team? How true is the statement “every point counts?” I know Mike Comrie because I played with him in Phoenix. home and home series or just another Wednesday night He's a great, little, shifty player. Mike is a great playmaker, game, you need to play for keeps right from the start. but he carries the puck also and makes good decisions with Everyone counted us out at the end, but we got it done to it. He's definitely a top-two centerman. He has some big make the playoffs. Last year proved it. Throughout the year, whether it's a MIKE'S FAVORITES Color: Blue Non-North American city: Vienna NHL team growing up: Calgary Flames Sport (other than hockey): Golf Magazine: People Arena outside Long Island: The Air Canada Centre (Toronto) Board Game: Monopoly Food: Steak and lobster Movie: Meet the Parents Car: Corvette Former Islanders: Bryan Trottier and Mike Bossy Superpower: Super-human strength Restaurant: Morton's Steakhouse Player to play with: Ray Whitney Decade for each of the following: Music: ‘80s (U2) TV: ‘90s (Seinfeld) Movies: ‘00s (Meet the Parents) Cars: ‘00s (Corvette) Clothes: ‘00s (Whatever is in) Video Games: ‘80s (Football on Nintendo) IN THE HOT SEAT Nickname: Silli Jets or Giants? Giants Like the Shootout? Yes Mets or Yankees? Mets Brand of Skates: Bauer Brand of Hockey Stick: Warrior The Eagles or The Beatles? The Eagles Seinfeld or Friends? Seinfeld What event in history would you like to have been a part of? The Islanders back in the 1980s when they won the Stanley Cups. Alternate Profession: Golfing If you could have dinner with two people who would they be? Michael Jordan and Bill Clinton I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I 15 Draft, posting 19 new feature elements in just over 24 hours in Columbus. Islanders Prospect MiniCamp was also swarming with ITV cameras. In fact, 36 new features were posted in one week of camp, including player video blogs and behind the scenes access to Ted Nolan and Garth Snow's private speeches to the players. Bruno Gervais' Hall of Fame tour, a 3-part series that debuted in August, chronicled Bruno's first-ever trip to Hockey's hallowed hall. In September, for the first time in team history, the Islanders broadcasted their pre-season games live on Islanders TV, with full commentary from Steve Mears and Billy Jaffe. All of the new content is on demand by simply typing a keyword in the search box. Debuting this fall will be “Ted's Time,” the first video blog from an NHL Head Coach. Nolan will blog into his home video camera once a week during the season, talking directly to Islanders fans. Ted is a smart, charismatic and energetic guy, and you won't want to miss his weekly blog. All these features are in addition to Islanders TV's intense coverage of the team during the season, ISLANDERS TV: YOUR ALL ACCESS PASS TO THE TEAM By Josh Bernstein Expanded coverage will keep fans busy all season long which includes pre-game interviews, game highlights, post-game press conferences, “Islanders Today,” and the popular 60-minute version of all Islanders games, “Instant Isles.” Perhaps the most exciting piece of news this offseason was the NHL's new deal with NeuLion, the Plainview-based company that serves as the backbone of Islanders TV. Using Islanders TV as the model, the NHL has signed a deal to produce replica Internet channels for the league and its teams. It's hard to believe, but only one year after ITV's debut, all 30 teams in the NHL will now have their own version of Islanders TV. It is our goal to always stay two steps ahead of the pack, and the ITV crew of Congratulations. You did it. You made it through the Islanders TV didn't need to dream of water turning long, hot summer without melting. into ice to get your hockey fix during this past producers is committed to making it happen. summer. In fact, you logged over half a million visits To get Islanders TV, go to newyorkislanders.com Maybe you killed some time by watching the Mets or to “ITV” to view the wealth of video content the and click on the Islanders TV link. No television or Yankees. A trip to the beach may have helped move channel has served up over the past few months. cable box is required. The Islanders have partnered things along and, maybe you dozed off while staring with NeuLion, who patented a formula for at the water, dreaming it would turn to ice. This summer, the ITV crew delivered on a promise broadcasting the most crisp internet video you will Regardless of how you passed the time, you have to publish new content every single day. New find on the web. Whether in a small window or in survived and now that fall is officially here, the features included a two-part Legends show on Hall full-screen display, Islanders TV broadcasts leaves are turning. And so is your attention…to of Famer Mike Bossy, extended interviews with the beautiful DVD quality video. hockey. newest Isles Bill Guerin and Mike Comrie, and a great look at the renovated Islanders team store in The tens of thousands of you who've been watching 16 I I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d Hicksville. Islanders TV was all over the NHL Entry The more, the merrier Why an Islanders game may be just the ticket for your group or organization. P lanning a group activity can be a daunting task, but game or breakaway contest during the game’s first or second thousands of Long Island children. Through RexCorp bringing your organization to an Islanders game is intermission while Future Isles allows youth teams to hit the Islanders Inspire, companies can purchase blocks of 100 $50 easy, fun and affordable. Whether you’re running a Coliseum ice and play before an Islanders game! Mites on face value tickets to be donated to worthy organizations on company outing, a school, scouting or sports team event, a Ice requires a minimum purchase of 75 game tickets while Long Island. Participating companies receive a host of birthday party, or you just have a large group that loves Future Isles requires a minimum of 200 tickets. benefits, including a PA announcement and scoreboard hockey, the Islanders Group Sales team will work with you mention during their sponsored game, a signed Islanders to make your event a big hit. hockey puck, four VIP tickets to that night’s game and more! With Group Tickets pricing, you’ll get substantial savings While this package carries a value of over $7,600, it’s off regular box office prices and you can just about available to donors for only $3,600. guarantee that your group will have a great day or night out. If you’re looking for a unique group experience at an Groups that are looking for a novel way to raise funds should Islanders game, there are a number of special group events look at the Islanders Pucks Into Bucks program. With you and your group can participate in. Pucks into Bucks, organizations can purchase $50 tickets for If your organization wants to hit the ice without suiting up only $20 and resell them for $30 - a profit of $10 per ticket. If you want to turn an ordinary birthday party into an for a game, Private Post Game Skates can be arranged. extraordinary one, why not host it at an Isles game? There You can even have your group host a post-game meet & As you can see, there is no shortage of fun and exciting are three great party packages available and each one greet with a current player, alumnus or coach. ways for your group to get in on the action of Islanders includes game tickets, hot dog and soda vouchers, plus a hockey this season. special gift for the guest of honor. The birthday boy or girl On the topic of players, before they even donned skates as will even get to see his or her name on the Jumbotron. Islanders this season, Bill Guerin, Mike Comrie and Ruslan Fedotenko got involved with RexCorp Islanders Inspire, a Youth Hockey teams can take advantage of the Islanders new program that allows companies (and generous Mites on Ice or Future Isles programs. With Mites on Ice, individuals like Bill, Mike and Ruslan) on Long Island to your youth team can attend an Isles game and play a brief take an active role in affording positive life experiences to For more information or to reserve your group’s night, contact New York Islanders Group Sales at 1-800-882-ISLES ext. 3 or [email protected] I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I 17 ISLANDERS EXCITEMENT ALL SEASON LONG Visit Nassau Coliseum to see the best competition in years T his off-season saw some of the best players in the Fans will be celebrated on Fan Appreciation Day on game come to the Islanders, as well as their Saturday, March 1 against Philadelphia. The Flyers, one of biggest rivals. This movement has created one of the Islanders division rivals, made some major acquisitions the most eagerly anticipated Islanders seasons in years. over the summer, including the speedy Daniel Briere. Sunday, March 2 sees the Islanders salute the Core of the Tonight, the team renews its newly formed rivalry with the Four: the players, coach and GM who were members of all Buffalo Sabres in the second-half of a traditional home-and- four Islanders Stanley Cup-winning teams. The Islanders home series. take on the Florida Panthers in this can’t-miss matinee that will be remembered for years to come. The Rangers take a short ride out to Uniondale on Oct. 10 for what promises to be the kind of epic battle fans have come to expect. On October 20, Martin Brodeur and the Devils come to town for an equally challenging match up. With this kind of start to the season, it's easy to envision capacity crowds for the first four games of the season. After the Columbus Day matinee, there are four additional The Isles host their second annual NYI Kids' Opening Day on Columbus Day, presented by RexCorp Islanders Inspire, Monday, Oct. 8 when Alex Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals come to town. This 2:00 pm game will be a must-see event for children of all ages, as the Russian sensation has afternoon games this season, including Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Jan. 21) versus Eric Staal and the 2006 Stanley Cup Champion Carolina Hurricanes and Presidents' Day (Feb. Including the season openers with Buffalo, the Islanders’ 18) against one of the best passers in the game, Joe schedule features five exciting home-and-home series: Boston Thornton and the San Jose Sharks. (Nov. 23 and 24) Carolina (Jan. 21 and 22), Pittsburgh (March 24 and 27) and the Rangers on April 3 and 4. dazzled the NHL since stepping on to the ice in 2005. Last You won't want to miss the Islanders test their resolve season's Kids’Opener was an overwhelming success. Expect against defenseman Chris Pronger and the defending Speaking of the Rangers, before the Islanders added Bill even more at the matinee on Oct. 8, including young Stanley Cup champion Anaheim Ducks on Tuesday, Feb. 5. Guerin, Mike Comrie, Ruslan Fedotenko and Jon Sim to Islanders fans serving as guest PA announcers, mascots from their offensive arsenal, the Rangers acquired two premier around the NHL, giveaways for children, the new Islanders centers in the game, Chris Drury and Scott Gomez, making Family Fan Fest outside the Coliseum and so much more! the cross-river rivalry in 2007-08 as exciting as ever. All four games versus the Blueshirts take place during the week: Tuesday, Oct. 10; Tuesday, Nov. 6; Thursday, March 6; and Thursday, April 8. And don't forget: with the team's 7:05 pm weeknight opening faceoffs, you should be back in your car at 9:30 on school nights! Islanders SEASON TICKETS are on sale now by calling 1.800.882.ISLES 18 I I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I 19 20 I I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d Collectible Poster #1 in a series I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I 21 22 I I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d NEW YORK ISLANDERS 2007-2008 HOME SCHEDULE OCTOBER January Saturday, October 6, 2007 @7PM OPENING NIGHT Thursday, January 3, 2008 @ 7PM MAGNETIC SCHEDULE, COURTESY OF GLOBAL REAL ESTATE SERVICES - ALL FANS IslES vs. montreal canadiens IslES vs. Buffalo Sabres IslES vs. florida panthers IslES vs. WASHINGTON CAPITALS Tuesday, January 15, 2008 @ 7PM Monday, October 8, 2007 @ 2PM KIDS’ OPENING DAY DIPIETRO YOUTH REPLICA JERSEY, COURTESY OF REXCORP ISLANDERS INSPIRE - ALL KIDS IslES vs. PHILADELPHIA FLYERS IslES vs. NEW YORK RANGERS BILL GUERIN MINI-BOBBLEHEAD, COURTESY OF ALLSTATE - FIRST 10,000 FANS Wednesday, October 10, 2007 @ 7PM ISLANDERS MEAN BUSINESS IslES vs. NEW jersey DEVILS Saturday, January 19, 2008 @ 7PM TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD NIGHT IslES vs. CAROLINA HURRICANES Monday, January 21, 2008 @ 2PM LONG ISLAND HOCKEY FEST Saturday, October 20, 2007 @ 7PM FIREFIGHTER APPRECIATION NIGHT COLLECTIBLE HAT (1 OF 3), COURTESY OF WINTHROP UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL - FIRST 10,000 FANS IslES vs. CAROLINA HURRICANES IslES vs. ottawa senators Tuesday, January 29, 2008 @ 7PM IslES vs. los angeles kings Saturday, October 27, 2007 @ 7PM LAW ENFORCEMENT APPRECIATION NIGHT/HALLOWEEN Thursday, January 31, 2008 @ 7PM COLLECTIBLE HAT (2 OF 3), COURTESY OF FOX SPORTS NEW YORK - FIRST 10,000 FANS February IslES vs. anaheim ducks NOVEMBER Tuesday, February 5, 2008 @ 7PM IslES vs. tampa bay lightning IslES vs. philadelphia flyers Thursday, November 1, 2007 @ 7PM Tuesday, February 12, 2008 @ 7PM IslES vs. PITTSBURGH PENGUINS IslES vs. ATLANTA THRASHERS Saturday, November 3, 2007 @ 7PM AL ARBOUR NIGHT, #1,500 Saturday, February 16, 2008 @ 7PM RICK DIPIETRO BOBBLEHEAD NIGHT MINI REPLICA BANNER, COURTESY OF DAVIS VISION - ALL FANS RICK DIPIETRO MINI-BOBBLEHEAD, COURTESY OF GEICO - FIRST 10,000 FANS IslES vs. New york rangers IslES vs. SAN JOSE SHARKS Tuesday, November 6, 2007 @ 7PM Monday, February 18, 2008 @ 2PM KIDS’ DAY, TOO IslES vs. NEW JERSEY DEVILS PUCK BANK, COURTESY OF NEW YORK COMMUNITY BANK- ALL KIDS Saturday, November 10, 2007 @ 7PM MILITARY APPRECIATION NIGHT IslES vs. tampa bay lightning COLLECTIBLE HAT (3 OF 3), COURTESY OF FOX SPORTS NEW YORK - FIRST 10,000 FANS IslES vs. MONTREAL CANADIENS Wednesday, November 21, 2007 @ 7PM ISLANDERS CHILDREN’S FOUNDATION NIGHT IslES vs. BOSTON BRUINS Saturday, November 24, 2007 @ 7PM TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN NIGHT Thursday, February 21, 2008 @ 7PM IslES vs. PITTSBURGH PENGUINS Tuesday, February 26, 2008 @ 7PM march T-SHIRT, COURTESY OF MR. JAY APPLIANCES AND TV - ALL KIDS IslES vs. PHILADELPHIA FLYERS IslES vs. dallas stars TEAM POSTER, COURTESY OF VALTECH - ALL FANS Monday, November 26, 2007 @ 7PM IslES vs. ottawa senators Wednesday, November 28, 2007 @ 7PM DECEMBER IslES vs. Atlanta thrasherS Saturday, December 1, 2007 @ 7PM TOWN OF OYSTER BAY NIGHT Saturday, March 1, 2008 @ 2PM FAN APPRECIATION DAY IslES vs. FLORIDA PANTHERS Sunday, March 2, 2008 @ 3PM CORE OF THE FOUR IslES vs. NEW YORK RANGERS Thursday, March 6, 2008 @ 7PM IslES vs. Toronto maple leafS Tuesday, March 18, 2008 @ 7PM MIKE SILLINGER MINI-BOBBLEHEAD, COURTESY OF BORO RECYCLING - FIRST 10,000 FANS IslES vs. pittsburgh penguins IslES vs. boston bruins Monday, March 24, 2008 @ 7PM Monday, December 3, 2007 @ 7PM IslES vs. philadelphia flyers IslES vs. phoenix coyotes Saturday, March 29, 2008 @ 7PM Thursday, December 13, 2007 @ 7PM IslES vs. PITTSBURGH PENGUINS Saturday, December 15, 2007 @ 7PM IslES vs. buffalo sabres Wednesday, December 19, 2007 @ 7PM APRIL IslES vs. NEW jersey devils Tuesday, April 1, 2008 @ 7PM IslES vs. NEW YORK RANGERS Thursday, April 3, 2008 @ 7PM IslES vs. washington capitals Saturday, December 22, 2007 @ 7PM HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS IslES vs. toronto maple leafs Wednesday, December 26, 2007 @ 7PM IslES vs. NEW JERSEY DEVILS Saturday, December 29, 2007 @ 7PM TOWN OF BABYLON NIGHT POST-GAME KIDS SHOOT-OUT: Mon., Oct. 8th, Mon., Jan. 21st, Mon., Feb. 18th, Sat., Mar. 1st, Sun., Mar. 2nd. *All promotions, dates and times are subject to change. KNIT HAT - FIRST 10,000 FANS looking ahead: a very busy October I f you hear a buzzing sound coming from The Islanders welcome the Rangers to the friendly October 27th. The Islanders Family Fan Fest will be Uniondale this month, it's likely the flurry of confines of Nassau Coliseum on Wednesday, October open on the plaza before game time and will feature activity taking place during Islanders games at 10th for Islanders Mean Business Night, when the special Law Enforcement exhibitions; plus the first Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in October. Islanders Business Club will be hosting a networking 10,000 fans in attendance will receive a collectible hat event for club members. (#2 in a series of three), courtesy of Fox Sports NY. Tonight is Opening Night, and the Isles take on playoff foe the Buffalo Sabres. All fans in attendance On Saturday, October 20th, the Isles pay homage to will receive a magnetic schedule, courtesy of Global our Firefighters on Firefighter Appreciation Night. Real Estate Services. The first 10,000 fans in attendance will receive a collectible hat (#1 in a series of three), courtesy of After a day off, the team follows things up with Kids’ Winthrop University Hospital. Plus, the Islanders Opening Day, presented by RexCorp Islanders Inspire - Family Fan Fest will be open on the plaza and feature a Columbus Day Matinee. All kids in attendance will firefighter demonstrations. receive a Rick DiPietro Islanders replica jersey. Be sure to arrive early, as the Family Fan Fest will be set up on The men in orange and blue finish up the month of the plaza prior to the start of the game. October by welcoming the men and women in blue during Law Enforcement Appreciation Night, on MORE SPECIAL THEME NIGHTS ARE IN THE WORKS, SO CHECK FOR ADDITIONAL DATES @ newyorkislanders.com I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I 23 24 I I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d GO FIGURE ISLANDERS VS SABRES Fact, figures and nonsense about NYI home openers By Corey Witt Welcome to tonight's Islanders home opener against the Buffalo Sabres. Tonight is the 35th home opener in franchise history. In 34 NHL seasons, the Islanders have a 22-10-1-1 record in home openers. But that's just where the numbers begin… • In 34 years, only four times have the Islanders had their home opener also be their season opener. The team is just 2-2 when that happens. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2007 - Nassau Coliseum A fter an intense meeting in the 2007 Eastern Conference Quarterfinals, the ISLANDERS Islanders and Buffalo Sabres renew new rivalry to open the start of the 2007- Goaltenders 08 season at the Nassau Coliseum. Despite losing in five games in the 34 Wade Dubielewicz postseason, the Islanders showed fight, going up against the NHL's most potent offense. 39 Rick DiPietro But it's a fresh season, and not only are the jerseys new for each team, but reinforcements have arrived on both sides to fill the gaps left by free agency. Buffalo may be without Defensemen their former co-captains Chris Drury and Daniel Briere, but they still have a group of 2 Aaron Johnson dangerous forwards, including Thomas Vanek and Maxim Afinogenov, as well as one of 8 Bruno Gervais • Against teams that the city starts in the letter “B,” the Islanders are 3-1 in home openers. the best young netminders in the league in Ryan Miller. It's going to be an emotional 14 Chris Campoli opening game for Rick DiPietro and the Islanders, who feature their new captain Bill 24 Radek Martinek • Buffalo has only been the Islanders home opener opponent once. The game was a 2-5 loss for the Orange and Blue on October 13, 1979. Guerin, along with new arrivals Mike Comrie, Ruslan Fedotenko, Jon Sim, Josef Vasicek 26 Andy Sutton and Andy Sutton. Fasten your seat belt for another season of Islanders hockey! 32 Brendan Witt “A” • The Islanders have won their last three home openers. They've done so by outscoring their opponents 9-4. • The Islanders have opened at home against the Philadelphia Flyers six times, which is the most of any team. The Islanders record against the Flyers in home openers is two wins, three losses and a tie (remember those?). • Tonight will be the first time in 34 years that the Islanders will hold their home opener on October 6. The team has played on this date five other times, but all on the road. On 10/6, the Islanders have a 1-2-2 record. 44 Freddy Meyer 2006-07 Season Series Buffalo: 6 pts., Islanders: 2 pts. Playoffs: Buffalo defeated Islanders 4-1 in ECQF Last Meeting: April 20, 2007: Buffalo 4-3 win in ECQF All-Time: 48-62-18-2 47 Marc-Andre Bergeron Forwards 7 Trent Hunter 10 Richard Park 11 Andy Hilbert 12 Chris Simon • The Islanders have outscored their opponents 123-90 in home openers. 13 Bill Guerin “C” • Tonight's game marks the second earliest home opener in franchise history. The only other game that was played earlier in October was in 1997 when the Islanders hosted Toronto on October 4. It was a 2-0 victory. And it wasn't even the team's season opener. 17 Shawn Bates (IR) • The latest home opener was in 1995. Not October, but January. It was the lock-out shortened season of 1994-95 and the Islanders opened the season (and actually at home) on January 21, 1995 with a 2-1 victory over Florida. 27 Darryl Bootland 16 Jon Sim 18 Mike Sillinger “A” 20 Sean Bergenheim 26 Ruslan Fedotenko 63 Josef Vasicek 81 Miroslav Satan 89 Mike Comrie HOME OPENER RESULTS DATE Oct. 14, 2006 Oct. 8, 2005 Oct. 18, 2003 Oct. 12, 2002 Oct. 13, 2001 Oct. 14, 2000 Oct. 10, 1999 Oct. 10, 1998* Oct. 4, 1997 Oct. 12, 1996 Oct. 14, 1995 Jan. 21, 1995* Oct. 16, 1993 Oct. 17, 1992 Oct. 12, 1991 Oct. 13, 1990 Oct. 14, 1989 Oct. 15, 1988 Oct. 17, 1987 Oct. 16, 1986 Oct. 19, 1985 Oct. 13, 1984 Oct. 11, 1983 Oct. 14, 1982 Oct. 15, 1981 Oct. 11, 1980* Oct. 13, 1979 Oct. 17, 1978 Oct.15, 1977 Oct. 9, 1976 Oct. 11, 1975 Oct.12, 1974 Oct. 13, 1973 Oct. 7, 1972* RESULT W 4-1 W 3-2 W 2-1 L 1-2 L 4-5 (OT) L 0-2 W 4-2 L 3-4 W 2-0 W 5-2 L 0-3 W 2-1 L 3-6 W 6-3 W 5-4 L 4-6 T 3-3 W 2-1 L 3-4 W 7-4 W 5-4 W 7-6 (OT) W 5-2 W 9-0 W 4-1 W 5-2 L 2-5 W 3-1 W 3-1 W 2-1 W 7-0 W 6-2 L 0-6 L 2-3 OPPONENT vs. Boston vs. Carolina vs. Florida vs.Washington vs. Detroit vs. Calgary vs. Colorado vs. Pittsburgh vs.Toronto vs. Philadelphia vs. Philadelphia vs. Florida vs. New Jersey vs. NY Rangers vs. Philadelphia vs. Pittsburgh vs. Philadelphia vs. Montreal vs. Philadelphia vs.Washington vs. NY Rangers vs. Chicago vs. Los Angeles vs. Pittsburgh vs.Vancouver vs. Boston vs. Buffalo vs. Montreal vs. Boston vs. Chicago vs. Los Angeles vs. Kansas City vs. Philadelphia vs.Atlanta BUFFALO Goaltenders 30 Ryan Miller 41 Jocelyn Thibault Defensemen 5 Toni Lydman 6 Jaroslav Spacek 10 Henrik Tallinder 38 Nathan Paetsch 45 Dmitri Kalinin 51 Brian Campbell Forwards 9 Derek Roy 12 Ales Kotalik 19 Tim Connolly 20 Daniel Paille 21 Drew Stafford 22 Adam Mair 26 Thomas Vanek 28 Paul Gaustad 29 Jason Pominville 37 Michael Ryan 55 Jochen Hecht “C” 61 Maxim Afinogenov 76 Andrew Peters I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I 25 WE’RE ALL ISLANDERS School Assembly Program A s adults, we all know the importance of teamwork. But children often need to be reminded of why it’s so important to work together. With this in mind, we created the We’re All Islanders School Assembly Program. Islanders staff members, Islanders Ice Girls and Sparky the Dragon will come to your school and teach students why it is so important to practice teamwork in all facets of their lives. This fun and informative assembly program includes a video presentation, student participation and some great leave-behinds for your students. There is no cost for the We’re All Islanders School Assembly Program and it’s open to Elementary and Middle schools from September through February. To sign your school up for the program, call Ann Rina at 516.501.6870 or email [email protected] www.newyorkislanders.com 26 I I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I 27 28 I I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d 2007-08 NEW YORK ISLANDERS SEASON PREVIEW Islanders begin season with an exciting combination of veterans and youth B By Steve Mears Islanders Radio Broadcaster Bloomberg 1130 efore his first season began, head coach Ted Nolan injury and will attempt to return to the line-up on a full-time goaltender in the National Hockey League. With a 32-19-9 vowed to “change the culture” of the New York basis this season. record, DiPietro's sixth season with the Islanders was his most memorable one. His 32 wins tied the franchise single-season Islanders franchise. After a 2006-2007 season which saw new leadership, a fresh attitude and a dramatic playoff berth, Sean Bergenheim returns to the NHL looking to take a new step record and he became the first Islander to record two 30-win the mission for year 2 of the Nolan regime is clear: take the next in his promising career. Bergenheim will be expected to elevate seasons. Despite missing 12 games due to injury, DiPietro had step toward the top of the National Hockey League. his game and play a key role on Long Island this season. one of the greatest seasons by any goaltender in Isles' history. Now after a year that saw him, according to Ted Nolan, “develop Last season opened with many question marks and featured a brand Defensemen right before our eyes,” the franchise netminder is ready to take the new general manager and coaching staff, and a core of veteran On the blue line in 2007-2008, the New York Islanders will feature next step in guiding New York to a new level. players. Now, as the Islanders prepare to drop the puck on the 2007- a combination of youth and experience. Players who were recently 2008 campaign, management and staff are firmly in place with a considered prospects will now be expected to log heavy minutes, Wade Dubielewicz, who won the last four games of the regular year under their belts. The team's most important position is while others look to bounce back from injuries. Anchoring the Isles' season to lead the Islanders to the playoffs, has signed an NHL solidified. And an already strong core of on-ice leadership is ready defense will be alternate captain Brendan Witt, whose fearless shot- contract and will share the goaltending duties with DiPietro. to be joined by a highly respected new team captain. blocking and huge body checks were essential last season. Having spent the majority of the last four seasons in Bridgeport, Meanwhile, Marc-Andre Bergeron returns with his booming slap “Dubie” will be a full-time Islander this season and will be Here is an in-depth look at the four most important areas for any shot and will be a leader on the power play after scoring 10 of his 14 expected to bring similar magic once again to the NHL level on hockey team and who the Islanders have to lead the way against goals last season with the man advantage. any given night. the very best in the 2007-2008 National Hockey League season: Coaches Forwards If his past is any indication, the 2007-2008 Islanders should be in Veteran winger Bill Guerin was the team's biggest off-season for a significant improvement in Ted Nolan's second season behind acquisition and brings an extensive resume as well as Stanley Cup experience to the Islanders. Guerin spent last season with St. Louis and San Jose and scored a combined 36 goals and 20 assists in his 15th season in the NHL. Once again this year, key roles will be filled by players with something to prove. In addition to the veteran Guerin, the Islanders also signed three free agents in the prime of their careers. Center Mike Comrie, a two-time 30-goal scorer, comes to the Islanders looking for an increased role after spending last year with Phoenix and finishing with Eastern Conference Champion Ottawa. Ruslan “Players who were recently considered prospects will now be expected to log heavy minutes.” the bench. In 1997, Nolan led the Buffalo Sabres to a 19-point improvement from his first campaign and a division title with a hard-working club that featured a great goaltender (Dominik Hasek). Ten seasons later, the scenario is similar with the DiPietroled Islanders and Nolan will look for similar advancement his second season as head coach. Although it is easy to forget, Nolan has now led teams to playoff berths in two of his three NHL seasons, including last year's amazing run with the Isles. Once again, his coaching style of patience, communication, and hard work will be implemented from the start of training camp. Fedotenko has a Stanley Cup championship on his resume and is This season, he'll be joined by two new staff members, John looking to regain the form that scored the Cup-clinching goal for Chabot and Gerard Gallant. Both are familiar with Nolan's Tampa Bay in 2004. Jon Sim joins the team as a feisty and versatile approach and bring lengthy playing and coaching resumes. winger who finished fifth in scoring on the Southeast Division Ironically, two of the Islanders' best players in the team's final Chabot was a teammate of Nolan's with the Pittsburgh Penguins in champion Atlanta Thrashers last season. playoff game last season were a pair of 22-year old defensemen: the mid-80's, and most recently was the head coach of the Acadie- Chris Campoli and Bruno Gervais. Both faced injuries last Bathurst Titan in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. The highly-skilled Miroslav Satan scored 27 goals last year and season, but took positive steps in their careers and will now be will look to return to the level of play that saw him score 35 goals expected to help fill the void left by free agency, with their Gallant was the head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets from with the Islanders just two seasons ago. Also, alternate captain offensive skills on the back end. 2003 to 2007 and has over 600 NHL games played, mostly with the Detroit Red Wings. Chabot and Gallant, two natives of Prince Mike Sillinger brings grit, leadership and some of the best faceoff skills in the NHL to the Isles' line-up. Sillinger played in all Meanwhile, 26-year old Freddy Meyer and sixth-year Islander Edward Island, will join returning assistant coach Dan Lacroix to 82 games last year and scored 26 goals and 33 assists in his first Radek Martinek will also look to return from injuries. When he form the 2007-2008 Islanders' coaching staff. The new additions year with the club. was healthy, Martinek was one of the Islanders' best defenseman, and returnees form a coaching unit with different backgrounds but a broken foot and a broken leg halted a breakout season for and similar goals. Adding further toughness and bone-crunching checks will be the Czech Republic native. Now, after missing the final two Trent Hunter and Chris Simon, who have both been re-signed months of last season, Martinek is ready to return to the top of the The 2007-2008 New York Islanders will compete in arguably and will each give the Islanders an element of “size” which was Islanders' plus-minus category. hockey's toughest division. With talent-rich Penguins, Rangers, and Devils squads, along with a vastly improved Flyers club, the vital last season. Role players Richard Park, Andy Hilbert and Shawn Bates will also look to bring certain intangibles and depth Goaltenders Atlantic Division is expected to become a fierce battle from to the Islanders' forward corps. Park and Hilbert turned out to be It's safe to say the 2007-2008 Islanders are at their strongest at October to April. The Islanders, led by DiPietro, Guerin and pleasant surprises as late signings last summer and saw hockey's most important position. Starting goaltender Rick steady guidance from Nolan, are ready for the challenge. important ice time in key defensive situations and penalty kills in DiPietro not only solidified his role as the face of the franchise 2006-07. Bates appeared in just 48 games last season due to last year; he also took huge strides in becoming an elite I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I 29 30 I I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d isles snapshots October 13, 2001 - The Islanders return to the Nassau Coliseum for their home opener versus the Detroit Red Wings. It was the first regular season hockey game played at the Coliseum since September 11th. Both teams, along with the NYFD and NYPD hockey teams, meet on the ice to hold an American Flag for the singing of the National Anthem. (Photo Credit: Ronnie Kind - NYIBC) I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I 31 ON THE SOUND: Dustin "We lived out of town, so we had plenty of room to build our own make-shift rink in the backyard," Kohn told newyorkislanders.com recently. "My dad used to flood the backyard and he'd skate around with me and my older brother." Islanders 2004 Second Round Draft Pick Ready To Take The Next Step While Kohn was too young to remember the Edmonton Oilers during their heyday, considering he was only three at the time of their last Stanley Cup in 1990, he was still an avid Oilers fan and dreamed of one day lacing up his skates for an NHL team. Kohn By Jason Lockhart A fter a successful training camp in Moncton, New Brunswick, Islanders prospect Dustin Kohn is primed for his first season of pro hockey on the Bridgeport Sound Tigers' blue line. Pegged by scouts as a two-way defenseman, Kohn has loads of potential, considering he is only 20-years old and was a four-year standout in the ultra-competitive Western Hockey League. In his first season with the Calgary Hitmen of the WHL, Kohn was only 3-6-9 in 52 games. Sixteen-year-olds, Kohn explained, did not get much ice time. There were games where he would only have one shift, and others where he would have more if a player was injured. At this time, Calgary had plenty of depth on defense and Kohn was given little opportunity to prove himself. What a difference a year made as Kohn jumped up to 8-35-43 in 72 games in his second season, showing doubters he had the potential to be a strong contributor. It helped that he played the point on a power play that included current NHL players Andrew Ladd (Carolina) and Ryan Getzlaf (Anaheim). His sophomore performance gave the Islanders reason to draft him in the second round of the 2005 Entry Draft. "Dustin is an exceptional skater and tremendously mobile," said Islanders Assistant General Manager Ryan Jankowski. "His game allows him to chase down pucks and move them up the ice on breakouts effectively." However, Islanders management wanted Kohn to focus more on the side of the game that is generally connected with his position - defense. That was no problem for Kohn. Kohn showed vast improvements the next season. While his offensive numbers went down, he responded with a greater effort in the defensive end. Splitting the season between Calgary and the Brandon Wheat Kings, Kohn finished first on Brandon with a +13. He had one final year of eligibility in the WHL to put together a complete season. In his final season, he found that perfect balance, setting career highs in points with 50, while finishing first on the team with a +23. "In my first full season I was all about putting up as many points as possible," admitted Kohn. "But when I was 17, I cut back on the offense and tried to focus on making fewer mistakes in our own end. My final year of ‘06-‘07 was my best year because I put up good offensive numbers, while being responsible in our own end." As a kid, Kohn learned to skate (almost) before he learned to walk, and by the age of five he had his own set of equipment. At six, he was already playing organized hockey, with his parents the driving force behind his love for the game. 32 I I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d Kohn's parents were the biggest proponents of their son's dream, taking him to morning practices and buying him new skates and sticks every year. "They're the reason I've been given this opportunity," said Kohn about his new three-year contract with the Islanders. "Without their dedication when I was younger, this could have never happened." Starting at six and never looking back, Kohn continued his ascent through the hockey ranks, striving to play at the highest level available to him. "Billy Moores, who is now an assistant with the Edmonton Oilers, always told me I should play at the highest level possible," said Kohn. "Another important coach of mine was Ted Olson, who coached me when I was 11-14. He taught me how to work hard, but at the same time how to have fun. He passed away five years ago, but I consider him my most influential coach growing up." By the time Kohn was 15, he still hadn't chosen a definite position. He had been playing both defense and forward, but it was during his teenage years when he started to lean towards defense. "I played a lot of both positions, but I realized I liked being an offensive defenseman," said Kohn. "I liked being able to play the point on the power play." At age 16, Kohn was ready to make the move to junior hockey. There was little question that he would play in Canadian Juniors, since it was considered the most competitive hockey at that age. Four years later, Kohn proved he could be among the best in the WHL and is now taking his skills to the next level. He is still young, and has some growing to do both physically and mentally, but Islanders management has a lot of confidence in his ability to succeed at the pro level. "Dustin has developed well over time," said Jankowski. "He is certainly someone that brings defensive depth to this organization. This season, we want to see that he's stronger, sure of himself and has taken the necessary steps to becoming an NHL player." In a short period of time, Kohn could be gracing the Nassau Coliseum ice and wowing fans with his seamless breakout passes and offensive punch. “I'm really excited about starting the season,” said Kohn. “I'm excited for the challenge and hope I can show that I belong at this level.” Getting to Know... Dustin Kohn Skate Brand: Bauer Stick Brand: Bauer Favorite NHL team growing up: Edmonton Favorite NHL player growing up: Doug Weight Favorite movie: Backdraft/Ladder 49 Do you like the shootout? Yes Do you think the NHL should send its players to the Olympics? Yes How old were you on your first date? 13 Favorite Superpower: Flying Green day or Eminem? Green Day Favorite non-North American City: Anywhere in Sweden Alternate Career: Golfing Family Guy or Simpsons: Family Guy Superman or Batman? Batman Coke or Pepsi? Coke Favorite sport other than hockey: Golf The actor who would play you in a movie: Paul Walker If you could have dinner with two people who would they be? Bobby Orr and Tiger Woods If you could be part of one moment in history what would it be? Any Stanley Cup winning team What's playing on your iPod? Mainly country - George Strait, Keith Urban, Rascal Flatts, also Dave Matthews Band and John Mayer GET YOUR SOUND TIGERS TICKETS! Call 203.334.GOAL You can catch Dustin Kohn and the Bridgeport Sound Tigers all season long at The Arena at Harbor Yard in Bridgeport, Connecticut. To purchase tickets for Sound Tigers games, please call (203) 334-GOAL or visit www.soundtigers.com. 2007-08 SOUND TIGERS REGULAR SEASON SCHEDULE OCTOBER SUN. 1 MON. 2 BNG 8 5:05 7 TUE. WED. 3 4 THU. 5 FRI. 6 SAT. FEBRUARY SUN. HAR 7:00 MON. TUE. WED. THU. 9 10 11 12 NOR 13 LOW 7:30 7:05 3 4 5 6 10 11 12 13 WOR 14 7:30 17 HAR 18 4:00 19 20 NOR 21 7:30 ALB 25 4:00 26 27 28 14 15 16 17 18 19 HER 20 WBS 7:30 7:00 21 22 23 24 LOW 25 7:05 26 27 NOR 7:15 28 29 30 31 7 FRI. 1 WBS 2 7:05 SAT. HAR 7:00 8 LOW 9 7:30 POR 7:00 15 ALB 16 WBS 7:00 7:00 22 ALB 23 HAR 7:00 7:00 TM NOVEMBER SUN. MON. TUE. 24 WED. 1 1 4 NOR 5 4:00 6 7 11 HER 12 4:00 13 14 18 19 20 21 HER 22 7:00 25 ALB 26 4:00 27 28 THU. WOR 8 11:00 AM 2 9 FRI. BNG 3 7:05 SAT. MARCH SUN. HER 7:00 PHI 10 7:05 MON. TUE. LOW 3 4:05 2 WED. 4 5 29 WBS 7:05 THU. 6 FRI. 1 POR 8 7:05 7 SAT. BNG 7:00 POR 7:05 TM 15 17 HER 7:00 16 BNG 13 7:30 9 10 11 12 23 HAR 24 ALB 7:30 5:00 16 17 18 19 WOR 20 7:05 30 BNG 7:05 23 24 25 26 WBS 27 7:05 14 WBS 15 PHI 7:30 7:00 21 WOR 22 7:05 TM 29 HAR 4:00 30 DECEMBER SUN. MON. 2 TUE. 3 WED. 4 5 THU. 6 FRI. 7 1 SAT. SPR 8 7:30 6 POR 10 4:00 11 12 ALB 13 7:30 14 PRO 15 BNG 7:05 7:00 16 ALB 17 4:00 18 19 NOR 20 7:30 21 HAR 22 MAN 7:00 7:00 24 BNG 6:05 25 JANUARY SUN. MON. PHI 7 5:05 13 BNG 14 4:00 20 27 28 PRO 29 HAR 7:30 7:00 31 30 6 26 HER 27 7:30 21 28 1 TUE. 8 2 WED. 9 3 THU. 4 POR 10 7:30 11 FRI. NOR 5 7:15 SAT. 31 MON. PHI 7 5:05 13 HAR 14 4:00 1 TUE. 2 WED. THU. MAN 3 7:05 WBS 10 7:05 8 9 15 16 ALB Albany River Rats BNG Binghamton Senators HAR Hartford Wolf Pack HER Hershey Bears LOW Lowell Devils MAN Manchester Monarchs NOR Norfolk Admirals 17 4 FRI. PHI 5 7:30 SAT. HER 7:00 11 LOW 12 HAR 7:30 7:00 18 19 PHI Philadelphia Phantoms POR Portland Pirates PRO Providence Bruins SPR Springfield Falcons WBS WB/Scranton Penguins WOR Worcester Sharks NOR 7:15 BNG 12 SPR 7:05 7:00 15 16 NOR 17 7:15 18 PHI 19 7:05 ALB 7:00 POR 22 1:05 23 PHI 24 7:30 25 26 PHI 7:00 29 30 31 SUN. LOW 7:05 9 23 APRIL TM 28 HER 29 WBS 7:30 7:00 HOME AWAY FOR TICKETS, CALL 203.334.GOAL SOUNDTIGERS.COM I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I 33 34 I I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d FUELED BY 50 seats are only $10!* $ • • • 1 ticket per valid student ID tickets available 1 hour prior to game line starts outside coliseum box office . D U LO UD. BEP OT OF R BE PAR LE. A BE DVIL ix t $ ! LOU entJUST 10 d u T st TA R A ST For more information: 1.800.882.ISLES ext. 2 [email protected] newyorkislanders.com I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I 35 START THEM YOUNG Introducing the NYI365 Kids Season Pass. create memories that will last a lifetime FOR JUST 10 A GAME $ I ntroduce your child to the New York Islanders with the NYI365 Kids Season Pass. Just purchase an adult Full Season Ticket in one of our new Family Sections and you can add on a Season Pass for your child for only $420. That’s just $10 a game! Our new family sections are located on the lower level and will put you and your child close to the action. For more info: call 1.800.882.ISLES email [email protected], or visit our website at newyorkislanders.com Kid’s tickets will be color coded to differentiate them from regular season tickets and your child must be 12 or younger to be eligible. 36 I I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I 37 38 I I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d I 39 40 I I s l a n d e rs I l l u s t ra t e d