Islanders Legend Working To Bring AHL Team, Complex To Ronkonkoma

Islanders Hall of Famer Pat LaFontaine is partnering with the Ronkonkoma Vision Project to bring an American Hockey League team and sports complex to Long Island as part of the hub project.

LaFonatine wants to develop grassroots athletic programs to share a planned 7,500-seat arena with an AHL team.

"This project will create a central gathering point for youth and families throughout the Island," said LaFontaine, a Long Island resident. "It will be a game changer for Long Island sports, serving community youth every day of the year."

LaFonatine's plan is part of the $1 billion-plus Ronkonkoma hub project, located between the train station and MacArthur Airport.

"Pat has been a tireless advocate for hockey and for youth sports, helping to advance the values we all learn through participation in athletics," NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly said. "We know that Pat's new role with the Ronkonkoma Vision Project will not only benefit the sport of hockey but will also create extraordinary opportunities for Long Island youth."

According to an NHL press release, LaFontaine will also look to bring a women's professional hockey and women's and men's soccer teams to play at the complex.

"We are excited to work with Pat, who brings extensive contacts and deep experience in hockey and youth sports to the development team," said Derek Trulson, vice chairman with JLL, the master developer for the project. "Pat will help us bring our vision to life, positioning the project as a sports, entertainment, convention and office destination for Suffolk County and beyond."