The Florida Panthers became the first team to reach the NHL Finals. Fans celebrated this by throwing mice – not real – onto the field en masse.
The Florida Panthers recorded their fourth win over the Carolina Hurricanes last night. Matthew Tkachuk once again became the big hero for the home team. Making the score 4-3 4 seconds before the final whistle.
The scene in Florida was filled with joy. For the second time in NHL history, the Panthers have advanced to the Stanley Cup Final. The first time was in 1996.
To celebrate, Florida Panthers fans threw huge fake mice onto the ice. Even in the official photo with the Best Team of the East trophy, you can see the dolls lying there.
Florida Panthers with the Prince of Wales Trophy and some mice on the ice.
“rat trick”
The story of the Florida Mouse begins in 1995 when a mouse appeared in the Panthers’ locker room.
Captain Scott Mellanby grabs his stick and throws the rodent against the wall.
In the match against the Calgary Flames, the Florida player scored two goals. “Rat trick,” laughs teammate and goalkeeper John Vanbiesbrouck.
In subsequent games, Panthers fans throw rats on the ice after each goal. The beginning of a tradition that is now fully alive.
An idea for fans of Beerschot Football Club?
