Why Do Florida Panthers Fans Hurl Rats? The Shocking Origin You Never Knew
As Florida attempts to join an exclusive group of repeat champions, viewers will see Panthers fans celebrate their team’s victories — both at home and on the road — by throwing fake rats onto the ice. This most recently happened after Florida’s 5-0 road win over Carolina in Game 2, giving the Panthers a 2-0 conference final series lead.
But exactly how and when did that rodent-related celebration become a tradition? Here’s what to know:
Why do Florida Panthers fans throw rats onto the ice?
The rat-throwing tradition dates back to the Panthers’ third season as an NHL franchise. Ahead of Florida’s home opener in 1995-96, forward Scott Mellanby spotted a rat running through the team’s locker room. Mellanby then took his stick and slapped the rat, sending it flying into a wall and killing it.
Post Comment