NY Islanders G David Rittich settling in on Long Island personally and professionally

For new New York Islanders goaltender David Rittich, the start of training camp and scrimmages was a welcome return to game action.

“Just getting used to playing a game again,” Rittich said. “It’s been a long time without playing, and before our first preseason game, those little scrimmages can just help everybody get the feeling of how that’s going to be with a regular game. It’s good to have one behind us.”

A few days into his first training camp with the Islanders, Rittich said he’s already felt comfortable with the group and the organization. “Everybody’s super friendly,” he noted. “It’s been awesome so far for me and my family here.”

That family has grown since Rittich’s arrival on Long Island, as he and his wife recently welcomed their second child. The goaltender said much of his time settling into the area has been spent exploring zoos, farms, playgrounds, and beaches with his three-year-old while also celebrating the new arrival.

Asked about his decision to sign with New York in free agency, Rittich said former Islanders assistant coach Jimmy Hiller, among others, had spoken highly of the organization. “I’ve heard great stories, great things, and I just made my decision to come here and see what’s going to happen.”

Fans in Calgary first gave him the nickname “Big Save Dave,” one that has followed him to every stop since. Rittich even had a quirky pregame ritual—having pucks bounced off his mask during warmups—but admitted he gave that up when his first child was born. “I stopped, tried to be more responsible,” he said with a laugh.

With a strong camp, Rittich has the chance to earn a meaningful role behind Ilya Sorokin. For now, he’s focused on building familiarity with his new teammates and embracing life on Long Island.