Islanders launch fan contest to design 2027-28 third jersey

The New York Islanders are launching a first-of-its-kind initiative in the National Hockey League, inviting fans worldwide to design the team's official third jersey for the 2027-28 season. The franchise announced the contest on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, marking the first time an NHL team has turned to its fanbase to create an official team sweater.

Fans have until July 24 to submit their designs through a dedicated online portal, islesjerseybuilder.com. The digital tool provides templates, historic logos and patches, official team fonts, and a wide color palette for creators to use. Team officials reported an overwhelming initial response, with tens of thousands of submissions received within the first day.

Kelly Cheeseman, the Islanders' President of Business Operations, said the concept is something he has wanted to implement for a long time. He noted that ownership was receptive to the idea, which required coordination with the NHL to ensure it complied with league policies. Cheeseman, who joined the organization last November, previously had success with a similar fan-engagement concept during his tenure with Major League Soccer's LA Galaxy in 2013.