Comedian Shane Gillis helped begin the festivities at Xfinity Mobile Arena on April 23 before the Philadelphia Flyers faced the Pittsburgh Penguins in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference First Round. Gillis, known as a dedicated Flyers fan, joined team mascot Gritty to “ignite the orange” prior to puck drop.
Gillis is a Pennsylvania native and regular attendee at Flyers games. He was recently seen sitting near the ice with actor Chris O’Connor and other members of his television show, “Tires.” The Flyers entered Game 3 holding a two-game lead in their playoff series after winning both opening matches in Pittsburgh.
The Philadelphia Flyers compete as a professional ice hockey team in the National Hockey League, according to the official website. They also provide professional ice hockey entertainment through league competition and community outreach efforts according to their official website.
The organization supports various community programs and initiatives, including cancer awareness campaigns that are part of league-wide efforts according to their official website. In addition to their competitive achievements, such as an historic game on Dec. 11, 1977 when defenseman Tom Bladon became the first NHL defenseman with an eight-point game during an 11-1 win over Cleveland as reported by their official site, they continue engaging fans through events like Wednesday’s pregame ceremony.
As playoffs continue, fans and attendees look forward to further performances from both players and supporters who contribute to the atmosphere at home games.
