Press Releases

Popular community rink gets $218,000 makeover to add new playing surface, boards, accessibility improvements, and more

Today, NYC Parks First Deputy Commissioner Iris Rodriguez-Rosa, the New York Rangers, and Benjamin Moore joined elected officials and local youth hockey players to cut the ribbon on the newly renovated Paul L. McDermott Rink at Stanley Isaacs Playground in Manhattan.

The New York Rangers and Benjamin Moore provided $218,000 to fully renovate the rink, which was last updated in 2000. The project created a new playing surface and dasher boards, repainted public restrooms and an adjacent playground area, upgraded fencing, and added a ramp to enhance accessibility.

“Stanley Isaacs Playground is an essential place for recreation for residents of East Harlem and the Upper East Side. And now, thanks to the generosity of the New York Rangers and Benjamin Moore, we’ve created a beautiful new rink for roller and ball hockey enthusiasts of all ages to enjoy,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “We’re especially proud that this rink will be used to host youth programming to introduce kids to the sport. We’ll continue to make improvements to our parks and playgrounds to provide safe and attractive play spaces, improve public safety, and help kids stay healthy and active.”

Following the ribbon cutting, the Rangers hosted a ball hockey clinic for participants from the Junior Rangers youth programs. Former Rangers player Brian Mullen led the clinic.

The newly updated rink will host youth hockey programming for children of all skill levels, including entry-level clinics to introduce them to the sport.

The project was conducted through the NYC Parks Adopt-a-Park program, which allows organizations to provide support for the renovation and beautification of parks, playgrounds, recreation centers, and other amenities.

Originally built in 1974, the rink at Stanley Isaacs Playground is popular for roller and ball hockey and frequently used by local leagues and youth groups. It was dedicated as the Paul L. McDermott Rink in October 2000 to honor McDermott, a long-time coach and volunteer at the playground, which also features a handball court, basketball court, and children’s play area.