An Open Letter from Igor Shesterkin
To the New York Rangers, our great supporters, and the whole Rangers community—thank you for everything.
Dear Ranger Family,
As I reflect on my path, both as a hockey player and as a person, one word stands out above all others: thankfulness. Today, I write not only as your goaltender, but also as someone who has been extremely honored, humbled, and inspired by your love, commitment, and belief in me over these great years.
From the minute I landed in New York, I was greeted with open arms. As a young man from Russia with goals as enormous as the city I now call home, I had no idea how important this place—and community—would be to me. The Garden, skyline, and fans inspired me to continue the heritage and add my own chapter.
To the New York Rangers organization: thank you for believing in me and allowing me to grow, stumble, climb, and shine. Wearing the Blueshirt is more than a job; it’s a privilege with historical significance, weight, and pride. From coaches to staff, trainers to teammates, you’ve made every day an opportunity to improve and give back.
My teammates, past and present, have been my brothers both on and off the rink. Goaltending may appear to be a one-man show at times, but hockey is the ultimate team sport, and I’ve been fortunate to share the ice with warriors who have fought alongside me with everything they have. Our locker room, bond, and battles will live in my memory forever.
To the fans, where do I begin? Madison Square Garden, you’re electric. You’ve helped me up when I’ve fallen, roared with me in triumph, and been by my side at the most trying times. Whether it’s the cheers resounding down 7th Avenue, the kids in jerseys carrying banners during warmups, or the quiet moments when a save changes the momentum, you’ve made me feel like I’m a part of something larger than myself. You made me feel at home.
And to the rest of the Rangers community—those who support us behind the scenes, in the media booths, in the neighborhoods, and on the ice all across the city teaching the next generation—thank you for keeping this dream alive for all of us. Every day, you remind us that this franchise is more than just wins and defeats. It’s about the heart. It is about hope.
My story in this league is still being written. And I’m not finished yet. But, no matter what happens in the future, please know that I carry you all with me every time I step on the ice.
With love and endless gratitude,
Igor Shesterkin,
#31 – New York Rangers