A Week of Hope and Optimism in the Flyers Community
Although we may be currently living through a dark and unique time, there’s optimism and hope everywhere around you if you decide to look for it.
It’s in our communities, homes, families, and was especially seen within the Flyers organization this week.
In case you missed any of the great things that occurred, here’s a summary of what happened.
Bernie Parent Released Themed Face Protectors, Inspired Fans on NBC Sports Special
Hall of Fame former Flyers goaltender Bernie Parent had a busy week. On Monday, a video was posted to Twitter of the 75-year-old legend placing bags of groceries into people’s cars. It’s obvious there was a smile on his face, which was covered by a Bernie Parent themed bandana.
The facial coverings were released on Tuesday by the Ed Snider Youth Hockey Foundation and can be purchased on their website at sniderhockey.org. For every ten-dollar donation made to the organization, one receives a chance to win a signed Flyers jersey as well as a Bernie Parent bandana. Lastly, on Wednesday, NBC Sports aired game six of the 1973-74 Stanley Cup Final, in which the Philadelphia Flyers were victorious over the Boston Bruins. Throughout the game, hockey analyst Kathryn Tappen interviewed Parent, who entertained viewers with motivational anecdotes, memorable quotes, and words of hope.
When asked about the last vital save on center Ken Hodge that allowed the Flyers to win, Parent, in typical Bernie Parent fashion, gave a lasting and chilling response:
“My mom was born on May 19th. My mom passed away on May 19th, and we won the Stanley Cup on May 19th. Isn’t that powerful? I’m sure it wasn’t me that made that save, it was my mom.”
Eric Lindros Named Flyers Ambassador, Interviewed in Legion of Doom Reunion on WMMR
Late last week, former Flyers center Eric Lindros partnered with the organization to accept the #AllInChallenge. The initiative, which raises funds for COVID-19 relief, gives fans the opportunity to bid on the Ultimate Flyers Experience. The package includes a pregame skate with eleven friends and Lindros, autographed merchandise, inclusion in the ceremonial puck drop before the game, and watching the Flyers in one of the Wells Fargo Center’s suites.
The following day, the Flyers tweeted that Lindros was announced a team ambassador.
“It’s official, I’m coming home,” he responded.
To top things off, Eric Lindros (living in Toronto, Canada), Mikael Renberg (living in Stockholm, Sweden), and John LeClair (living in Haverford, Pennsylvania) reunited for a special Legion of Doom interview on WMMR’s Preston & Steve Show. “We just liked to play. To succeed, you have to love what you’re doing,” said Lindros when asked what made the Legion of Doom line successful.
Alain Vigneault Connected with Senior Citizens, Showed Off Wicked Playoff Beard
Photo: Bildbyrån/Elite Prospects
This past Wednesday, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported that Flyers head coach Alain Vigneault and many other workers within the franchise started a program to keep lonely seniors connected and engaged to the world.
He said, “It’s very rewarding to be able to use this time to help others and hopefully brighten their day.”
The program, known as Flyers Phone-Linemates, has so far spoken with many senior citizens at Mildred Shor Inn at the Abramson Senior Care Center in Montgomery County and is looking to expand to other senior homes in the Philadelphia area.
Additionally, a couple of days ago, the Philadelphia Flyers’ Twitter posted a gif of AV, showing off his “playoff beard” he’s accumulated during his time off.
Linus Sandin Signed to One-Year-Entry-Level Contract
The Flyers added even more depth to their already relentless team by signing right-winger Linus Sandin to a one-year-entry-level contract this past Wednesday. Sandin spent this season in the Swedish Elite League. He ended with an impressive nineteen goals and seventeen assists in fifty-one games.
Photo: Zack Hill/Philadelphia Flyers
The signing of Sandin, who has been described as a workhorse, should make things really interesting and fun to watch moving forward. His younger brother, Rasmus Sandin, currently plays for the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Saving the Best for Last: Oskar Lindblom to Undergo Final Cancer Treatments
Without a doubt, the greatest news from the Flyers organization this past week was the updated health status of 23-year-old Oskar Lindblom
Lindblom, who was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma earlier in the season, has remained in Philadelphia during the season’s indefinite suspension, receiving treatment from the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. This past Tuesday it was announced that the left-winger is approaching the end of his cancer treatments
“Treatments have gone as well or better than we could have expected,” said Flyers assistant general manager Brent Flahr. “It’s amazing, he’s a warrior, this kid.”
Lindblom tallied an impressive eleven goals and seven assists in his thirty games played this year.
Congratulations, Oskar!
Featured Image: Len Redkoles/NHL via Getty Images Videos: @NHLFlyers, @88EricLindros
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