A Philadelphia Flyers Fan Homebrews Some Beer
With the Philadelphia Flyers set to drop the puck against the New York Rangers this evening at The Garden I took to Reddit to gauge the excitement surrounding tonight’s game and came across something pretty spectacular.
A Flyers fan on the /r/Flyers subreddit had brewed his own beer. Each of his creations had their own unique label on them and were inspired by a current or former Flyer. I got a hold of tsulahmi2, also known by his real name Paul, and asked him a few questions. Here is that exchange.
Brendan – How long have you been a Flyers fan?
Paul – My first real memories of the Flyers are from the ’97 cup finals against Detroit but I wouldn’t consider that the point when I became a real fan. The first game that I watched that I became really interested in hockey was the Philadelphia – Ottawa brawl but I’d say that I became a die-hard, watch every game, live and die by the Flyers during the 08-09 season.
Are you from the Philadelphia area?
I am 25 and from right outside North-East Philadelphia. Lower Bucks County.
What was the inspiration behind making these fantastic Flyer’s themed homebrews?
I had been homebrewing for a while and wanted the bottles to look more professional so I wouldn’t feel weird giving friends and family ‘blank’ bottles to try. This was an easy way to make the finished product look much more professional.
How long does it take for each of your creations?
When I use to bottle all of my brews, it would take about 6 weeks from brew-day until it was ready to drink for the ales. Lagers take an additional month so I tend not to make them as often. Now that I keg most of my beer and bottle from the keg, I can go from ‘grain-to-glass’ in 3 – 4 weeks depending on the style.
Were you a little nervous when Jay Rosehill asked you to make him a case of his own beer?
Definitely! *knock on wood* I haven’t had an infection in any of my beers since I’ve started brewing, but the fear did cross my mind when making the beer for him.
How did he like it?
I gave the beer to him on Sunday the 13th and haven’t heard from him since. I’d like to think he’s saving them so he can drink them out of the Stanley Cup this year.
Have you received any more orders from reddit users or other Flyers players?
No other Flyers players yet, but Jay has my e-mail address and I let him know that if anyone else on the team wants a case they are more than welcome. And yes, I have received many requests from Reddit users. Unfortunately I’m not legally allowed to sell any of the beer so they’ll have to wait until I go pro. (one day, maybe)
What brew is your favorite?
‘Right-Hook Rye’, and ‘Why you Hefe to be Mad Hefeweizen’ are both my favorites.
What current or former Flyers player is your guy?
Former is Ron Hextall, Current is Coots!
Have you thought about setting up an online store front to sell these?
As much as I’d love too, the legal requirements to sell alcohol are very high as well as the additional legal work from the NHL and NHLPA make that a pipe dream at this point. Maybe one day.
And finally, what is your prediction for the Flyers first round matchup with the New York Rangers?
Flyers in 6.
I want to thank Paul for taking some time out of his schedule to answer my questions. Below you’ll find a few of my favorites. When you’re done with that make sure to check out this link to his entire collection