"One onlooker particularly appreciated it. "I paid people to wear them," Matthew's father, Todd, joked as the Islanders and Capitals came out for warmups. Seriously, though . . . "It's exciting," the elder Schaefer told Newsday. "It's surreal. This is all he's ever wanted as a kid, and I'm proud of him and happy that his dreams are coming true. "It's just great to be here. Long Island fans have been amazing, so amazing.""
"This was another milestone in a crucial time for the Islanders, both in hockey and business terms. They are beginning a new era under new management, including general manager Mathieu Darche, and are seeking to be more open and modern in their marketing. But the best marketing is winning, and in Schaefer, the No. 1 overall pick in the NHL Draft, they have a player they believe can help with all of the above."
Matthew Schaefer made his regular-season home debut with visible fan support, including replica No. 48 jerseys and family members in attendance. His father, Todd, expressed pride and joked about paying people to wear the jerseys while praising Long Island fans. The Islanders are entering a new era under general manager Mathieu Darche and are aiming to modernize and open up their marketing approach. Schaefer, the No. 1 overall draft pick, has shown flashes of speed and creativity that scouts noted. Family and fans have actively promoted Schaefer through media relations and fan engagement at recent games.
Read at Newsday
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