TROY, N.Y. — The New York Rangers are heading to the Capital Region.

On Tuesday at Knickerbacker Ice Arena in Lansingburgh, County Executive Steve McLaughlin and Mayor Carmella Mantello announced a partnership between the City of Troy, Rensselaer County, and the New York Rangers to give youth hockey players in the area a chance to develop their skills and receive professional-level coaching.

The Rangers’ Jr. Rangers youth hockey program will work with the Troy Albany Hockey Association to coordinate the day-to-day, 10-week training initiative that will begin in September. Attendance for the program will cap at around 65 kids and will feature one hour and twenty minutes of weekly training. In addition, players will receive a complete hockey equipment package.

A total of 10 scholarships will be offered to select young hockey players as coordinated through the county Department for Youth. The money for the scholarships offered will be money raised by the County Executive’s office and will not require costs from municipalities across the area.

McLaughlin spoke about the value that the sport of hockey brings to Rensselaer County.

“It’s a phenomenal sport,” McLaughlin said. “It teaches such great teamwork and competition and drive and achievement.”

The revitalization of the Knick is part of Mantello’s broader strategy to attract new partners, boost tourism and generate economic development throughout the city. Mantello hopes to further solidify Troy as a vibrant, active and family-friendly destination.

“It’s all about the kids,” Mantello said. “This is one more activity that we want to keep our kids active. We are so psyched to offer this opportunity.”

The Knickerbacker Arena, which closed down nearly a decade ago, reopened in January as part of a $2.7 million project to get it up and running again.  A total of $2 million was allocated by the county from the funds generated by the American Rescue Plan Act, which was directed towards paying for the ice.

Retired NHL player and 1989 All-Star Brian Mullen, who was a member of the Rangers from 1987-1991, was on site Tuesday to announce the partnership. Mullen will be one of a few former players involved in the 10-week program and is ready to have a “blast” with the kids as he watches them evolve.

“No matter where I go, whatever rink I’m in, I’m having fun with these kids,” Mullen said. “I have the best job in the world.”

The Rangers run their program in 55 rinks across the tri-state area and hope to grow the game of hockey in Lansingburgh, especially now that the Knick isn’t dormant anymore.

“We’re really grateful to everybody involved, and can’t wait to see this program grow,” McLaughlin said. “It’s going to keep on getting legs, and I don’t think it’ll be too many years in the future before we see our Rensselaer County and Troy kids wearing one of these jerseys at Madison Square Garden.

Originally Published: August 12, 2025 at 3:11 PM EDT