UBS Arena is here – and with that, a new chapter of New York Islanders’ history will begin.

After decades of searching, decades of yearning, decades of hardship, the Islanders are finally home. Saturday evening marks the opening of UBS Arena, the Islanders’ new state-of-the-art facility.

This building is the heart of the $1.3 billion Belmont Park Redevelopment Project that is transforming an underutilized space into the mecca of hockey in the United States. It will feature Offsides Tavern and Blue Line Deli & Bagels, showcase ceilings only three feet higher than the Nassau Coliseum and – yes – have enough bathrooms for 17,000 fans.

But most importantly, it provides fans a sense of security.

“I hope we have delivered to the fans, the greatest fans in the National Hockey League,” said Islanders’ owner Jon Ledecky at UBS Arena’s ribbon cutting ceremony Friday. “You deserve this home, and you now have it.”

Gone are the days of Nassau Coliseum. Gone are the days of Barclays Center. Enter “The Taj Mahal of the NHL,” according to award-winning journalist and broadcaster Stan Fischler. A franchise that has always been relegated is now the best of the best, as fans, players and owners will see just how special this organization truly is.

Barry Trotz and Lou Lamoriello are perhaps the best coach and general manager in hockey. Ledecky and Scott Malkin are perhaps the best owners in sports. And now, they have their arena – one that fans will savor for decades.

There has always been a fear of upheaval, ever since rumors swirled that the Islanders would be moved off Long Island. Barclays Center clearly was never going to work, and worst case scenario, the Islanders and Long Island could have failed, too.

But now, the arrival UBS Arena signals a clear message. The Islanders are here to stay – here to stay on Long Island.

So, whether you are watching from the building or on television, take a second to appreciate how important this day is. The Islanders are home – and that is a blessing.

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