The Florida Panthers, known for their competitive spirit, have embraced an unlikely tradition that coincides with their winning streaks. In recent games, the Panthers have opted to arrive in robes, a choice that seems to bring them luck on the ice.
Last week, during a trip to Finland, the reigning Stanley Cup champions introduced personalized bathrobes as part of their game day routine. Upon receiving these robes as a gift, the team adopted them for their two-game stint in Tampere, a nod to the local sauna culture. The result was impressive, as the Panthers secured victories in both games.
Following their success overseas, the Panthers decided to continue this untraditional practice back in the United States. On Thursday, they walked into the arena sporting their robes once more and clinched a solid 6-2 win against the Nashville Predators. The decision to keep wearing the robes seems to be a blend of superstition and camaraderie among players, as explained by forward Matthew Tkachuk. “I think we’re just going to ride it out until our luck runs out,” he commented. When asked if the robes would make another appearance, Tkachuk responded, “There’s a very good chance.”
The idea, initially proposed by Lucy Tallas, the wife of the Panthers’ goaltending coach, received support from the team’s management. Panthers General Manager Bill Zito credits her for the inspiration, which has now become an entertaining pre-game ritual.
Team captain Aleksander Barkov also played a role in solidifying the robes as part of their routine. He informed the team via a group chat, assuring everyone to embrace the new tradition. Some players were initially unsure, even suspecting a prank, but Tkachuk helped assure them by sharing a picture of himself wearing the robe en route to the game. “You’ve got to be some kind of superstitious at some point, right?” Barkov remarked.
Panthers’ head coach, Paul Maurice, expressed his support for any activity that strengthens team unity. He noted the courage it took for players to break conventional norms and arrive at the rink in robes. “Those are the best that have nothing to do with anything but the players,” Maurice observed, implying the positive impact such traditions can have on team morale and performance.
While the players enjoy the novelty of their robes, Coach Maurice maintains professionalism on the sidelines, opting to wear a suit for games. His humorous take on the matter suggests respect for the players’ bonding experience while keeping his usual attire intact.
The Florida Panthers have found a unique way to blend superstition with team spirit through their robe-wearing tradition. This approach not only keeps morale high but also reinforces team cohesion. As long as the wins keep coming, the players appear content to continue their tradition. It serves as a reminder of the lighter side of sports, where unconventional practices can sometimes lead to unexpected results.
Source: Local10
