SCHAEFER AND RITCHIE’S HOMECOMING
Matthew Schaefer may have exaggerated when he mentioned having 1,000 people coming to tonight’s game between the Isles and Leafs.
Nevertheless, the Hamilton, ON, native anticipates having a large cheering section at Scotiabank Arena for his first game in his hometown.
“It’s amazing,” Schaefer said. “Returning to my roots a little bit. I used to come to games here growing up with my dad, friends, and so on. So, it’s great to be here and have family in the building.”
Schaefer couldn’t recall skating at Scotiabank Arena as a kid, so being on the ice for the first time during the team’s optional morning skate was “pretty cool.” His father, Todd, was among the many friends and family present during Tuesday’s session.
There will be a special guest for Schaefer on Tuesday night as his wheelchair-bound grandmother, Marianne, will be attending the game. According to NHL.com, Marianne has never seen her grandson play in an NHL game before.
“It will be a truly special moment for both me and her tonight,” Schaefer said.
Despite all the excitement on Tuesday, the 18-year-old emphasized his focus on securing two points for the Islanders during their playoff push. Coach Roy praised Schaefer’s maturity and composure in key moments this season, such as the last time the Islanders faced the Leafs when Schaefer scored two goals, including the OT winner.
“Just be himself,” Roy said. “That’s what he’s been doing with us. He handled the big stage in Montreal really well. It was also a big stage when we played the Leafs in New York, and Schaef has been handling those situations really well.”
