Pearl River Native Joins NY Rangers Roster

Drew Fortescue fulfills NHL dream with hometown team

Apr. 8, 2026 at 8:19am

An abstract, energetic painting featuring bold brushstrokes and neon colors that capture the dynamic movement and emotion of a hockey player on the ice, with the player's face and jersey indistinct.A young hockey player's dream becomes reality as he joins the roster of his hometown New York Rangers.Pearl River Today

Pearl River native Drew Fortescue, a former junior player at Boston College, has joined the New York Rangers as a rookie defenseman. Fortescue, who was recently drafted by the Rangers, is now living out his childhood dream of playing for his hometown NHL team.

Why it matters

Fortescue's journey from a local youth hockey player to an NHL roster spot with the Rangers is an inspiring story that resonates with many aspiring athletes in the community who hope to one day make it to the professional level. His success also highlights the strong hockey culture and development programs in the Pearl River area.

The details

Just weeks ago, Fortescue was a junior on the Boston College men's ice hockey team. Now, he's earned a spot on the New York Rangers' NHL roster and is getting regular playing time with the team. Fortescue was recently drafted by the Rangers, fulfilling his lifelong dream of playing for his hometown team.

  • Fortescue was a junior on the Boston College hockey team earlier this year.
  • Fortescue was recently drafted by the New York Rangers.

The players

Drew Fortescue

A rookie defenseman for the New York Rangers who grew up in Pearl River, New York.

New York Rangers

The professional ice hockey team based in New York City that Fortescue now plays for.

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What they’re saying

“Growing up, you dream of being here and playing here, but I don't think I ever saw it as a reality or ever thought it was really going to happen probably up until I got drafted.”

— Drew Fortescue, New York Rangers Defenseman

The takeaway

Fortescue's journey from a local youth hockey player to an NHL roster spot with the Rangers is an inspiring story that demonstrates the power of hard work, dedication, and following your dreams. His success is a point of pride for the Pearl River community and a testament to the strength of its hockey development programs.