Good Morning, Islanders Country.
It’s a Quick Fix featuring Joe Buono (@IslesFix) and former VP of Communications for the Islanders, Chris Botta (@ChrisBottaNHL).
In this episode, Chris and Joe dig into the most revealing comments yet from Islanders president of business operations Kelly Cheeseman, following his recent interview with Newsday.
Just weeks into the job, Cheeseman, who categorized himself as “a builder,” has already identified the core challenge facing the franchise off the ice: how to grow a fanbase that is aging, overly concentrated on Long Island, and increasingly sensitive to the full game-day cost of attending games at UBS Arena.
The conversation goes beyond the usual “just win more” debate. Chris and Joe explore whether success on the ice is enough on its own, or if the Islanders are finally taking calculated risks to expand their visibility across Queens, Brooklyn, and younger demographics. From parking headaches and transportation access to ticket pricing and perceived value, they break down the real barriers preventing casual fans from becoming regulars—and what Cheeseman can realistically change in the short- and long-term.
Listen and enjoy!
📺 The Future of Sports: Kelly Cheeseman on Culture, Tech & LA Kings Strategy
🔗 Islanders fans react to business operations president Kelly Cheeseman’s initiatives to grow fan base by Ben Dickson, Newsday “Kelly Cheeseman, the Islanders’ new president of business operations, said he is “a builder” in an interview with Newsday on Tuesday. Just over six weeks into his new role, Cheeseman is tasked with building up attendance at UBS Arena and strengthening the Islanders’ fan base. The team’s diehard fans appreciated a look into Cheeseman’s philosophy and goals for the gameday experience.”
🔗 NY Islanders business operations boss says fanbase must get younger, more diverse via Eyes on Isles “This isn’t a conversation New York Islanders fans want to have, especially in the middle of a surprisingly good season, but it’s one the business side of the franchise can’t ignore: if this team wants to grow, the fan base has to grow with it. Younger. More diverse. More reflective of the market it actually sits in.”
And we leave you with this…Chris Botta and a Hockey and Islanders HOFer
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