New York Islanders Co-Owner Jon Ledecky visited Long Island University for a conversation on business, finance, leadership and the realities of owning a National Hockey League franchise. Ledecky discussed disciplined investment, long-term decision-making and the responsibility that comes with building and sustaining a major professional sports organization.
Ledecky also spoke about the importance of investing in the communities that support the franchise. That commitment is reflected in LIU’s five-year partnership with the New York Islanders and UBS Arena, creating new opportunities for students, elevating LIU Hockey and deepening the University’s connection to the professional sports industry.
The event concluded with LIU Hockey naming Ledecky Honorary Captain for the 2026–27 season and presenting him with a personalized LIU jersey.
Long Island University’s five-year partnership with the New York Islanders and UBS Arena creates new opportunities for students, elevates LIU Hockey and strengthens the University’s connection to the professional sports industry. The partnership brings together higher education and professional sports through student engagement, hockey initiatives and experiences connected to one of the region’s premier sports organizations and venues.
LIU men’s and women’s hockey begin the 2026–27 season with nationally ranked opponents and an LIU-hosted tournament at UBS Arena.
Men’s hockey opens with two games at No. 6 Minnesota Duluth, then travels to No. 4 Western Michigan later in October. The schedule also includes Northeastern, RPI, the USA National Team Development Program and Providence. LIU will host the Empire State Holiday Invitational at UBS Arena on December 28–29, facing Army in the opening round.
Women’s hockey opens its season Saturday against Boston University, followed by a two-game series against New Hampshire on October 2–3 at Northwell Health Ice Center. The Sharks travel to Harvard in January and compete through a full NEWHA schedule as they look to return to the NCAA Tournament.
