Business & Tech

Mixed Reaction at Islanders' Practice Rink

Hockey fans at the New York Islanders' practice facility in Syosset express disappointment Wednesday at news of the team's planned departure from Nassau.

The announcement that the New York Islanders will be leaving Nassau County was met with mild chagrin Wednesday at the franchise's practice facility, Iceworks in Syosset.  

"I feel that the [county] messed up," said Amy Gorelkin, of Syosset, as she dropped off her son, Ethan. She said the failure of the negotiations for a new arena left the team with little recourse, and the county deserved the loss. "It's not an ideal situation, but I think they took advantage of it."

Ethan, 13, took a stronger position.

Interested in local real estate?Subscribe to Patch's new newsletter to be the first to know about open houses, new listings and more.

"I think that it's better 'cause the Coliseum's a dump. Have you seen the Barclays Center? It's sick!" he said.

Katsumi Moi, of Roslyn, was also dropping her son off at the rink. She said she wonders what the effect will be on the team playing so far from its fans.

Interested in local real estate?Subscribe to Patch's new newsletter to be the first to know about open houses, new listings and more.

"I'm disappointed. Nassau County should give them the opportunity to stay here," Moi said, though she acknowledged she understands the decision.  

Employees at the Pro Shop inside the building said they haven't heard what the team's future at the rink will be, but that they don't anticipate it will affect business too much.

A call to the Islanders was not immediately returned.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here