Ryan Healey, a defenseman who spent four seasons at Harvard, has taken a decisive step toward the professional ranks. Following a trade from the Minnesota Wild to the New York Islanders for future considerations, he signed a one‑way contract with the AHL’s Hamilton Hammers, the Islanders’ developmental affiliate.
Harvard Roots and the Surfing Edge
At Harvard he earned a degree in economics while compiling 55 points in 130 NCAA games. His 12 points during the 2025‑26 season placed him second among Crimson defensemen in scoring. Off the ice, Healey is an avid surfer, a hobby he believes sharpens his balance and timing on the rink. Growing up in Hull, Massachusetts, he once worked at a local surf camp, blending his love of the ocean with his athletic ambitions.
A Fresh Start with the Hamilton Hammers
The one‑way AHL deal marks the next phase of Healey’s career. After attending the Islanders’ Development Camp, his primary goal was to leave a lasting impression on management. The organization’s welcoming atmosphere resonated with him, reinforcing his excitement about the opportunity to contribute at the professional level.
Healey’s journey from the classroom to the rink, and from the waves of New England to the ice of Hamilton, illustrates a blend of academic discipline and athletic passion. As he steps onto the Hammers’ roster, he carries with him the lessons of a Harvard education, the rhythm of surfing, and the ambition to prove himself in the AHL.