Each of the six NWHL teams will play 20 games at Herb Brooks Arena this season starting Jan. 24, 10 days after the Rangers season opener against the New York Islanders. But when the Whale or Riveters play, the faces of Chris Kreider, Artemi Panarin, Mika Zibanejad, Igor Shesterkin and every other Rangers player will be looking down on the competitors.
Seeing those faces supporting their league is exciting for the Whale and Riveters players.
"When we're competing for the Isobel Cup, seeing the faces of all the Rangers players in the stands at Herb Brooks Arena will have us fired up," Connecticut captain Shannon Doyle told the Whale website.
"This is an extraordinary gesture by the New York Rangers," Riveters forward Rebecca Russo said.
The Rangers chipped in the $50 per face fee for both teams, which fans of any NWHL team can do until Jan. 15 to advance hockey in the Greater New York area.
"One of the Rangers' goals every year is to continue to grow the game of hockey at every level and for everyone," MSG Sports executive vice president of business operations David Hopkinson told the Whale website. "Any time we have a chance to make that happen, whether it is through creating access, opportunities or generating exposure for this great game we want to be involved."
Aside from financial support, the Rangers' support also will spotlight the NWHL's upcoming sixth season.
"The New York Rangers have always been genuine advocates of hockey as a game for everyone," Whale general manager Amy Scheer told the team website. "We appreciate their leadership and what they've done to cheer on our Connecticut Whale and the rest of the women in Lake Placid."
