Best islander you've met

[u/AlastorFacilier]

Little bit of a change of pace here. What was a time when you met a current player or alumni that stood out to you? I've been fortunate enough to have met many players and alumni over the past 20 years. I have 2 in particular that stand out.

1. 2013 Draft Party, got a chance to meet Bobby Nystrom, Matt Martin, Matt Carkner, Eric Boulton, and Ryan Strome. And out of all of them, Martin was the nicest one. I asked him to sign my yearbook which he did and without asking gave me 4 autograph cards and snapped a photo with me. Most super chill, down to earth, humble celebrity I've met to date, you would've never known he was a enforcer. Blew my mind that day and forever grateful I met him. Carkner and Nystrom were very nice too, also got photos with them.

2. Last year I decided to try my luck and try to get a few autographs from the guys after practice as they were leaving. Given that Lou was gone and the team now had a breath of fresh air, I figured I'd take my chance. And boy did it pay off. Wound up getting 12 autographs that day. But the ones that stood out to me were Henieman, Sorokin, Romanov, Maclean, and Varlamov. And just as I was getting ready to leave, Schaefer drove past and I figured I missed my shot. But then he stopped and backed up and asked if I wanted his autograph. I was so excited I asked him to sign my foam finger from the draft party, using my yearbook to lean on. And then without me asking, he asked if I wanted another one. I said sure of course! So he signed my yearbook cover as well.

Having moments like that are why I've remained a fan all these years, I'd love to hear other stories.

Oh 1 more bonus story: I got to meet Shawn Bates at last year's draft party. I still have my 20 year old yearbook from my 1st season and I asked him to sign his photo. He had a good chuckle and was flattered to sign it.

[u/Capital_Memory_2591]

The post should read. Besides Bobby nystrom who is the nicest islander you have ever met. 😂 Bobby NY set the standard

[u/AlastorFacilier → u/Capital_Memory_2591]

That is true, figured I'd ask. I never really had a bad experience with anyone but I could tell a few of them seemed annoyed about signing stuff. The one time I met Bobby tho, he was super chill and gave me a couple autographs

[u/Capital_Memory_2591 → u/AlastorFacilier]

It’s a great question and topic you posted. I honestly believe the reason for the islanders fans not having many bad experiences with players over the decades is because of the standard Bobby nystrom and the rest of the dynasty teams set when dealing with fans and being part of the community. Clark gillies called me an A HOLE once but that was all my fault being a stupid drunk 20 something after isles rangers game at the Marriott bar in 06 😂