Islanders’ Matthew Schaefer plans to live with Matt Martin’s family again: ‘Guess they can’t say no’
New York Islanders rookie Matthew Schaefer confirmed he will continue living with former player Matt Martin’s family for the upcoming NHL season. The 19‑year‑old, who won the Calder Trophy last year, joked that the family can’t refuse him, highlighting a growing father‑son dynamic with the Martins’…
During a recent golf outing at the Glen Oaks Club in Old Westbury, New York, New York Islanders rookie Matthew Schaefer made a light‑hearted comment that revealed a deeper story about the young star’s off‑ice life. When a reporter asked whether Matt Martin and his family would welcome him back, Schaefer answered, “I don’t know if they want me back, but I’m going back.” The comment, delivered with a grin, underscored a relationship that has grown into a family bond over the past year.
From Locker Room to Living Room
Matt Martin, a 16‑season veteran who spent 14 of those years with the Islanders before moving into an executive role, opened his home to Schaefer at the start of the 2025‑26 season. The 19‑year‑old, who earned the Calder Trophy as the NHL’s top rookie, found more than a place to sleep; he discovered a supportive community that extended beyond the rink.
Martin’s wife, Sydney, has shared heart‑warming moments on Instagram, including a photo of Schaefer celebrating his 19th birthday with the family. The images show the rookie laughing with the Martins’ daughters, Winnie and Alice, and have become a staple of the family’s social media presence.
The Bond That Grows
In an August interview, Martin described the instant connection: “From the moment he stepped into our house and met our family, before it was ever decided he was going to live with us, you just feel the type of kid he is, the type of energy he has.” He added that the relationship feels natural, with the children gravitating toward Schaefer and vice versa. The rookie has taken on a big‑brother role for the twins, often seen coaching them on skating drills and sharing stories from his own upbringing.
Martin’s endorsement of Schaefer’s character came during a SiriusXM interview where he praised the young player’s professionalism and maturity. “He carries himself with a level of respect that’s rare for someone his age,” Martin said. “He’s not just a player; he’s a role model for our kids.”
On the Ice: A Stellar First Season
While the off‑ice story is heartwarming, Schaefer’s on‑ice performance has been equally impressive. In his rookie campaign, he appeared in all 82 games, scoring 23 goals and tallying 59 points. The numbers earned him the Calder Trophy and positioned him as one of the league’s most promising young talents.
As the 2026 season approaches, Schaefer is eager to build on that success. He has expressed a desire to refine his defensive play and increase his offensive output, aiming to become a cornerstone for the Islanders’ future.
What’s Next for the Islanders and the Martins?
The Islanders’ front office has publicly supported the arrangement, recognizing the positive impact of a stable home life on a young player’s development. The team’s management believes that Schaefer’s continued stay with the Martin family will foster a stronger connection to the organization and the local community.
For the Martins, the relationship offers a chance to nurture a new generation of hockey fans. Sydney Martin has spoken about how the family’s bond with Schaefer has enriched their household, saying, “It’s like having a second son.” The family’s support network is expected to remain a cornerstone of Schaefer’s career as he enters his second professional season.
As the Islanders prepare for the upcoming season, fans can anticipate not only Schaefer’s on‑ice contributions but also the heartwarming narrative of a young athlete finding a second family in the heart of New York.
Key Takeaways
- Matthew Schaefer will continue living with Matt Martin’s family for the 2026 season.
- The relationship began last year and has evolved into a father‑son dynamic with the Martins’ daughters.
- Martin praised Schaefer’s professionalism and maturity during a SiriusXM interview.
- Schaefer’s rookie season saw 23 goals and 59 points in all 82 games.
- The Islanders’ management supports the arrangement, seeing it as beneficial for player development.
- Fans can expect Schaefer to build on his rookie success in the upcoming season.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is Schaefer staying with the Martin family? The arrangement provides a stable home environment, fostering personal growth and allowing him to focus on his hockey career.
- Has Matt Martin officially confirmed the arrangement? Yes, Martin publicly acknowledged the decision during a recent interview and expressed confidence in Schaefer’s continued stay.
- What impact does this have on the Islanders’ roster? It strengthens the team’s core by ensuring a key rookie remains focused and supported, potentially improving performance.
- Will Schaefer be involved in community outreach with the Martins? The family has already participated in local charity events, and plans for further community engagement are anticipated.
Why it matters
Schaefer’s off‑ice stability highlights how personal support systems can influence professional athletes’ performance, offering fans insight into the human side of the sport.
Key points
- Matthew Schaefer will stay with Matt Martin’s family for 2026
- The bond began last year and has become a father‑son dynamic
- Martin praised Schaefer’s maturity on SiriusXM
- Schaefer’s rookie season: 23 goals, 59 points in 82 games
- Islanders support the arrangement for player development
- Fans expect Schaefer to build on rookie success
Frequently asked questions
Why is Matthew Schaefer staying with the Martin family?
The arrangement offers a stable home environment, allowing Schaefer to focus on his hockey career and personal growth.
Has Matt Martin confirmed the decision?
Yes, Martin publicly acknowledged the arrangement and expressed confidence in Schaefer’s continued stay.
How does this affect the Islanders’ roster?
It strengthens the team’s core by ensuring a key rookie remains focused and supported, potentially improving overall performance.
Will Schaefer participate in community outreach?
The family has already engaged in local charity events, and further community involvement is expected.
