18. Philadelphia Flyers-New York Rangers Agree to a Tie Game
While it isn’t one of the greatest moments in Philadelphia Flyers history, it is significant. It would be classified as one of the most patriotic moments in Flyers history and patriotism is a strong emotion. It was a difficult time in the days after 9/11. The country was in mourning after the terrorist attacks and it was a time of national strength. The NHL season was still in its early exhibition games and the one that took place on September 20th, 2001 was against the New York Rangers. Both teams were about to take the ice in the third period of the game when then President George W. Bush took to the jumbotron screen.
The thousands of fans that were in attendance insisted that the game be delayed and the President’s speech to Congress was displayed. The speech lasted 36 minutes and in that time, both teams agreed that it was best to end the game in a 2-2- tie. Both teams lined up and shook hands at the end of the speech. Fans and players alike both listened intently to the speech and cheered loudly when it reached its conclusion. There were cheers of “USA! USA!” throughout the stadium and many were touched when red, white and blue bunting was displayed on video boards throughout the stadium. All of the Flyers organization agreed that it was the right move for both teams and to inspire the county.
Next: Number 17: Flyers Defeat an Original Six Team