Philadelphia Flyers Mascot Gritty, History, Reception: Every Question Answered
When it comes to which NHL mascot has the most unique and well, frightening look, many hockey fans will easily scream the name of Gritty. Oh yes, the official NHL mascot of the Philadelphia Flyers is not only one of the most popular ones today but has made quite the name for himself on the internet.
Standing at 7′ tall with googly eyes ready to intimidate opponents at any given time, Gritty is easily a fan favorite every time the Flyers play at home in Wells Fargo Center. Making his debut in 2018, he quickly became the envy of other mascots across the NHL and has gone viral on social media thanks to all his antics, pranks, and ability to rally the team when it matters most.
Created by Brian Allen of Flyland Designs with consulting help from David Ramond (the creator of the Phillie Phanatic), Gritty is now a worldwide sensation and was even voted as the top NHL mascot in 2019 and 2020 by the NHL Players’ Association, just one year after he was created. Needless to say, Gritty will only continue to grow in fame and legacy over time.
Gritty is all about being a frightening yet lovable NHL mascot
In the grand scheme of things, even though Gritty can be considered frightening, menacing, and even flat-out scary, there is no denying that he’s loved by fans all across the globe. Kids love his hugs and ability to make them smile just by the way he acts.
Without further ado, here’s a look at the history, reception, and what makes Gritty so interesting as a mascot in the NHL. Let’s fire it up!
When did Gritty debut for the Flyers?
Gritty made his introduction to the hockey world as the official mascot of the Flyers on September 24, 2018. The image, GIFs, and memes of his debut were terrifying at first but eventually added more to the mystery of Gritty and his impact on the Flyers and the city of Philadelphia.
Who was the Flyers’ mascot before Gritty?
Before Gritty’s debut, the previous mascot of the Flyers was Slapshot but didn’t last more than a single season. Slapshot was the Flyers’ mascot only for the 1976-1977 season.
What was the inspiration behind Gritty’s look?
As Allen and Raymond brainstormed what the embodiment of Gritty should be, they wanted to create an NHL mascot that stood out from all the other mascots across the league but not anything too wild. Basically, a mascot that you’d have to do a double-take on due to having such an intimidating face but wouldn’t mind giving fans a wave hello or patented fist pump.
Is Gritty on Twitter?
Yes, he is! Follow Gritty here: @GrittyNHL
Is Gritty on Instagram?
Yes, he is! Follow Gritty here: grittynhl
What has Gritty’s reception been since his debut?
Not only did fans of the Flyers embrace Gritty immediately upon arrival, but hockey fans everywhere instantly recognize him and well, they love him. Needless to say, the Flyers got it right with Gritty’s design, look, and everything he’s known to do at home games, community events, and school visits.
Gritty Meme
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Gritty Merchandise
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What are Gritty’s lore and backstory?
As the construction of Wells Fargo Center was underway, rumor has it that it disturbed the super top secret don’t tell anybody hideout of Gritty. Once it was discovered, he refused to stay in hiding due to the reception he got once he was seen in public. Flyers fans fell in love with him thanks to everything he brought to the team as an NHL mascot. Since then, he refuses to head back home and has accepted his new life as a public icon.