Long Island isn’t exactly known as a hockey hotbed, and it’s rare for a local kid to make it big in the NHL. But that’s exactly what Adam Fox did. Born and raised in Jericho, New York, Fox grew up as a die-hard New York Rangers fan, never imagining he’d one day be a star defenseman for the team he cheered for as a kid.
From Jericho to MSG: The Rise of Adam Fox
Now a two-time NHL All-Star, a Norris Trophy winner, and a key player for Team USA in the 4-Nations Face-Off, Fox has cemented himself as one of the top defensemen in professional hockey.
Jewish Roots and a Hockey-Themed Bar Mitzvah
Fox’s connection to Long Island runs deeper than just hockey. His family attended the Jericho Jewish Center, and when it came time for his bar mitzvah, there was no question about the theme—hockey, of course! He credits his father, Bruce Fox, for instilling in him both a strong Jewish identity and the values that continue to shape his life on and off the ice.
While professional hockey keeps him busy, Fox still embraces his Jewish heritage, lighting the menorah on Hanukkah and attending Temple with his family whenever possible. He also takes great pride in being one of only 13 openly Jewish players in the NHL, knowing that his presence in the league inspires young Jewish athletes.
Hockey Star, Hometown Hero
Before becoming an NHL standout, Fox played two seasons with the U.S. National Team Development Program, setting records for assists and points by a defenseman. He then dominated at Harvard University, where he led all NCAA defensemen in scoring and was a Hobey Baker Award finalist. Despite being drafted by the Calgary Flames, Fox’s journey to the Rangers wasn’t straightforward. His rights were traded to the Carolina Hurricanes, but he held out on signing with them, determined to play for his hometown team. In 2019, his dream became reality when he was traded to New York.
Adam Fox: A Force on the Ice
Fox wasted no time making his mark in the NHL:
- Won the James Norris Memorial Trophy in 2021, becoming just the second defenseman in NHL history to win the award before his third season (joining Bobby Orr).
- Named to the NHL All-Star Game twice.
- Led all NHL defensemen in assists and power-play points in multiple seasons.
- Named Rangers MVP in 2020-21 and won the Steven McDonald “Extra Effort” Award, an honor given to the player who goes above and beyond for the team and the community.
Fox isn’t just a defensive powerhouse—he’s also known for his elite hockey IQ, calm decision-making under pressure, and ability to set up plays with pinpoint accuracy. He’s one of those players who makes the game look effortless while leaving opponents scrambling.
The Future of Adam Fox
At just 26 years old, Fox’s career is still skyrocketing. He signed a seven-year, $66.5 million contract extension with the Rangers in 2021, ensuring he’ll continue to be a cornerstone of the franchise for years to come.
With his Long Island roots, deep connection to his heritage, and elite skill set, Adam Fox isn’t just a star—he’s a role model for aspiring young athletes on Long Island and beyond. Whether he’s shutting down the NHL’s best scorers, representing Team USA, or inspiring the next generation of Jewish hockey players, Fox is proving that hard work, determination, and hometown pride can take you to the top.
Fox Facts:
🏒 Born: February 17, 1998, in Jericho, New York
🏒 Height/Weight: 5’11”, 181 lbs
🏒 Shoots: Right
🏒 Jersey Number: 23
🏒 Hockey Nickname: Foxy
🏒 NHL Debut: 2019 with the New York Rangers
🏒 Favorite Superhero: Batman
🏒 Most Listened-To Artist: Drake
🏒 On His Bucket List: Travel to Europe
🏒 Most Valuable Possession: World Juniors Gold Medal
Photo: Metropolitan Transportation Authority of the State of New York, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
