The New York Islanders have launched a season-long docuseries, “On The Island,” chronicling what’s been a summer of significant changes for the pride and joy of Nassau County.
“We’re really bringing the fans in and giving them the inside look that they’re always hoping to get,” Alex Leafer, the Islanders’ senior director of production, technology and innovation, told The Post.
“We’ve planned this for about a year now, and seeing it finally come to fruition is very exciting.”
The first of what will be six tell-all-style episodes, each lasting close to a half hour, was released on YouTube on Wednesday, and others will appear throughout essential moments of the upcoming campaign for the cup.
Things began by drilling down on the hiring of general manager Mathieu Darche and his “war room” preparations for last June’s NHL draft, when the Isles selected defenseman Matthew Schaefer first overall and later forward Victor Eklund and defenseman Kashawn Aitcheson in Round 1.
“Once Mathieu came on board, he was very interested and understanding in where our vision was,” added Leafer, who said future episodes will “deep dive” into compelling story lines from development camp, followed by what is to come of the 2025 season in October.
The first iteration also touches on fan-adored defenseman Noah Dobson’s trade to the Canadiens, which Darche addresses on camera.
Future episodes will also feature “some unexpected cameos” by prominent figures in the hockey world, the cinematographer said.
“Our goal is definitely to bring in some of that superstar element as we really tell the story of the team.
“This is an opportunity for the fans to feel like they’re more than just the fans watching the Islanders — they’re part of the journey the team is going on.”
High school football is back in action this weekend as the Massapequa Chiefs host the Freeport Red Devils for a Friday night lights game at 6:30 at nearby Berner Middle School due to field renovations.
Oceanside also opens at Uniondale on Saturday at 11 a.m.
