**New York Rangers Partner with Rensselaer County and City of Troy for Youth Hockey Training Program at Knickerbacker Ice Arena**
In an exciting development for young hockey enthusiasts in the Capital Region, the New York Rangers have teamed up with Rensselaer County and the City of Troy to launch a youth hockey training program at the Knickerbacker Ice Arena. The initiative, announced by Rensselaer County Executive Steve McLaughlin and Troy Mayor Carmella Mantello, will bring professional-level instruction to local children through the Rangers’ **Jr. Rangers** program.
The 10-week program, coordinated by the **Troy Albany Hockey Association (TAHA)**, will provide young players aged 10 and under with high-quality skills training, equipment, and mentorship. Former NHL player **Brian Mullen**, who spent 11 seasons in the league—including time with the Rangers—joined local officials at the Knickerbacker Ice Arena to celebrate the announcement.
### **A Major Boost for Youth Hockey**
The partnership marks a significant step in revitalizing hockey participation in Rensselaer County. The **Jr. Rangers** program, a youth hockey initiative run by the New York Rangers, will provide the framework for the training sessions. TAHA will handle the day-to-day operations, including coaching and ice time, while the Rangers’ organization will supply instructional materials and guidance.
“We want to see more kids skating and more kids playing hockey in Rensselaer County,” said County Executive McLaughlin. “This is an innovative way to attract kids and give them valuable skills training with the help of an Original Six franchise, the New York Rangers and their Jr. Rangers program.”
Mayor Mantello echoed the enthusiasm, emphasizing the broader impact of the Knickerbacker Ice Arena’s revival. “This partnership with the New York Rangers is a game-changer for our community,” she said. “The Knick’s revival has brought incredible energy back to Lansingburgh, and now, with the Rangers’ world-class youth hockey instruction, we’re giving our kids new opportunities to learn, grow, and dream big right here in Troy.”
### **Program Details and Community Impact**
The program will accommodate up to **65 participants**, with sessions held on Saturdays over ten weeks. Each session will include **one hour and twenty minutes of skills training**, designed to develop fundamental hockey abilities in a fun, structured environment.
One of the most notable aspects of the program is that it will provide **a full set of hockey equipment** to participants, removing financial barriers that often prevent children from joining the sport. Additionally, **ten scholarships** will be made available for Rensselaer County and Troy residents through the county’s **Department for Youth**.
Steve Kraz, President of TAHA, expressed excitement about the collaboration. “This is an exciting program, and TAHA is looking forward to coordinating and leading it,” he said. “The reopening of the Knickerbacker Ice Arena has been a tremendous asset for youth hockey efforts, and this partnership with the Jr. Rangers strengthens those efforts.”
### **The Return of the Knickerbacker Ice Arena**
The Knickerbacker Ice Arena, a once-dormant facility, reopened in **January 2024** after nearly a decade of closure. The revival was made possible through a joint effort between Rensselaer County and the City of Troy, both of which recognized the need for accessible ice sports facilities in the region.
Since its reopening, the arena has quickly become a hub for local hockey, figure skating, and community events. The addition of the **Jr. Rangers** program further solidifies its role as a cornerstone for youth athletics in the area.
“We teamed up to reopen the Knick to give kids a chance to get on the ice,” McLaughlin said. “We look forward to possibly some future Blueshirts, or maybe Bruins, Penguins, or other teams taking to the ice early in their hockey journey.”
### **A Legacy of Hockey Excellence**
Having a storied NHL franchise like the **New York Rangers** involved in grassroots hockey development is a major win for the Capital Region. The **Jr. Rangers** program is designed not only to teach hockey skills but also to foster teamwork, discipline, and a love for the game.
Brian Mullen, who played for the Rangers from 1987 to 1993, emphasized the importance of youth programs in growing the sport. “Hockey is a game that teaches life lessons—perseverance, teamwork, and dedication,” he said. “Programs like this give kids the chance to fall in love with hockey and maybe even dream of playing at the highest level someday.”
### **Looking Ahead**
As the program prepares to launch, local officials and hockey advocates are optimistic about its long-term impact. By making hockey more accessible and providing professional-level training, the initiative could inspire a new generation of players in Rensselaer County.
For parents and young athletes interested in joining, registration details will be released soon through **TAHA** and the **Knickerbacker Ice Arena**. With limited spots available, early sign-ups are encouraged.
This collaboration between an NHL franchise, local government, and community organizations demonstrates the power of partnerships in **sports development**. It’s more than just hockey—it’s about giving kids the tools to succeed both on and off the ice.
As Mayor Mantello put it: **“This is just the beginning. The Knick is back, and with the Rangers by our side, the future of hockey in Troy has never looked brigh
