FLA Live Arena, Home to the Florida Panthers – Sunrise, FL – Courtesy: Shutterstock – Image by Felix Mizioznikov
In the 954 there is talk about the Florida Panthers everywhere you turn.
Banners at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, county bus signage, and flags atop light poles, among other things.
The county’s tourist division, Visit Lauderdale, has its logo on the helmets of its players.
Can Broward County so legitimately claim ownership of the team?
In Mayor Nan Rich’s opinion:
“Broward County’s team is the Panthers,” she declared. “While we’re glad that everyone supports the Panthers, they only have one home, which is in Broward County.”
In addition to displaying her impressive collection of bobbleheads and jerseys, county administrator Monica Cepero—a devoted Cats fan—boldly predicted that the Panthers would win the Stanley Cup in five games.
However, in response, Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava emphasized that the team was founded in Miami in 1993 and made their debut in the former Miami Arena.
“I think regionally. Nan Rich, the mayor, is aware of that. It’s a friendly rivalry because we’re such good friends,” Levine Cava said. “They originated here in Miami-Dade, and I’m willing to share.”
Nevertheless, regardless of where in South Florida one lives, ice hockey is not a popular pastime.
Many people who were interviewed by Local 10 outside supermarkets and strip malls in the Fort Lauderdale and Miami areas admitted that they weren’t huge hockey fans and didn’t know much about the sport.
A few expressed their preference for soccer.
Some, on the other hand, expressed optimism that the team’s success will attract new supporters.
Though the words may alter, the idea remains the same: Go, Gatos! Cats, let’s go!
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Mike has more than 30 years of experience in marketing and public relations. He once owned his own agency and has worked with some of the largest brands in the world.
