Philadelphia Flyers announced as host to New York Rangers in 2012 Bridgestone NHL Winter Classic
Being part of the annual National Hockey League (NHL) Winter Classic is one thing, but playing the part of the host is an honour on its own, which had fans around the league wondering who would be chosen as the one to represent their hometown.
It was announced and made official by NHL Commissioner, Gary Bettman, on Monday, September 26, that the 2012 Bridgestone NHL Winter Classic would be held against Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers at Citizens Bank Park, which is already home to Philadelphia
Phillies, the cities baseball team.
Special logos for the event which takes place on Monday, January 2, 2012, along with special logos that the two teams will use were also unveiled.
"The Rangers-Flyers rivalry is one of our very best", said Bettman."It is only a short distance from Broadway to Broad Street, and over the years, these not-so-neighbourly teams have provided an assortment of memorable games. I have every expectation that
the 2012 Bridgestone NHL Winter Classic will provide more great moments to remember".
During his speech at the announcing ceremony, Philadelphia Flyers owner Ed Snider, was thrilled at having their city chosen as the host.
“It's an honour for the Philadelphia Flyers to serve as ambassadors for the NHL. We look forward to hosting the Bridgestone NHL Winter Classic in Philadelphia and showcasing our great city to hockey fans throughout North America", said Snider.
It was during the 1974-1975 NHL regular season in which both New York Rangers and Philadelphia Flyers became division rivals and have had personal motives against each other ever since, which ultimately makes the upcoming event much more exciting.
Rangers president and general manager, Glen Sather, was also present at the occasion and also took the opportunity to express his gratitude to the NHL for choosing their team as a participant, which would make an already hot team even more fiery with such
a busy schedule ahead.
For the fifth year that the annual event is taking place, it will be held in Philadelphia’s biggest ballpark which can handle 43,500 fans. Players like Chris Pronger and Jaromir Jagr along with Danny Briere, Claude Giroux and Scott Hartnell are ready to
perform for their team.
New York is also fully prepared with a line-up consisting of Henrik Lundqvist, Marian Gaborik, Marc Staal and newly added superstar, Brad Richards.
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