Long Island University unites with the Islanders and UBS Arena, launching a new Division I tournament and fostering college hockey's future in New York City
The Long Island University Sharks announced a five year partnership with the NHL's New York Islanders and their home UBS Arena this morning.
According to the release the partnership will "strengthen their shared commitment to advancing the growth and development of hockey across Long Island and the New York City region."
The "cornerstone" of this partnership per the release is the establishment of a new NCAA Division I Hockey Tournament, the Empire State Holiday Invitational. The inaugural iteration is slated for December 28–29, 2026. While teams have not been officially announced, Barstool Sports has reported the three teams aside from Long Island will be Army, Ferris State University, and St. Lawrence University.
Long Island University will also be a "supporting partner of the New York Islanders' Learn to Play program," and "provide LIU students with enhanced access to UBS Arena, including behind-the-scenes tours, student ticket opportunities, and annual engagement with Islanders and UBS Arena executives through campus programming and experiential opportunities." This lays the groundwork for the next generation of hockey players and sports industry professionals on Long Island for years to come.
Today's reveal comes weeks after Long Island University unveiled a $3 million campaign to upgrade their NCAA Facility at Northwell Health Ice Center. Through these two announcements within the past month, the Sharks have elevated their program, while providing a lasting benefit for Long Island and college hockey as a whole.