By MADDY VITALE
This was one time when transforming a city into a “Gritty City” could be considered a good thing – at least if you’re a Philadelphia Flyers fan.
Ocean City became just that, when the Flyers 2023 Community Caravan came to town Wednesday, bringing along its popular orange mascot, “Gritty,” arena host Everett Jackson, Flyers alumni Steve Coates, Scott Hartnell, Dave Schultz, Bob Kelly and Todd Fedoruk, current players and the Flyers Ice Team.
Kids waited for Gritty, the top attraction, from inside the Sports & Civic Center, where the city’s summer recreation sports camp was underway.
Cooper Mazza, 11, of Marmora, was excited that he could see his favorite mascot and some players.
“It’s cool to see the Flyers and Gritty,” he said.
When Gritty made his grand, albeit goofy entrance — complete with a little dance — the googly-eyed creature was met with cheers.
Children, including Cooper Mazza, and even adults, got their pictures taken with the friendly, furry beast.
While much of the event was set for outside the sports center, there was a delay due to the rain.
Everett Jackson, the Flyers in-arena host, kept the spirits high as his voice resonated in the mic.
He said bringing the Flyers to the fans and introducing others to the sport, including young people who may not have already been interested in hockey, is what it is all about.
“I think it gives kids exposure to ice hockey, a sport they might not know much about. It gets the sticks in their hands,” Jackson said in an interview during a break.
Gayle Moss, of Somers Point, said her son, Grayson, 8, lives for hockey.
“He loves it,” she said.
Shortly after her remarks, Grayson, who anxiously waited to meet some of the players, turned his back to display the name on his team jersey, his favorite player, goalie Carter Hart.
“I like hockey. It’s interesting,” Grayson said with a smile. “I play street hockey. I hope to play ice hockey.”
During the event, the Community Caravan brought carnival-style fun. There was an inflatable hockey rink, slap shot target and bungee run.
Alyssa Major, of Egg Harbor Township, brought her children, Kaylee, 10, Owen, 12, and 7-year-old Colton, for a day with the Flyers.
From getting autographed photos of some of the players, to playing games, families such as the Majors took advantage of the attractions and activities.
The Major kids are not just fans of hockey teams. They play for the Egg Harbor Township Street Hockey Association.
“It’s a really good opportunity to see all of the other people who like hockey,” Alyssa Major said of the event.
Kaylee enjoys street hockey and hopes to one day play ice hockey.
“I like to play street hockey,” she said. “Sometimes, it can be a rough sport, but I have fun.”
Brian Maturo, of Garnett Valley, Pa., was giving his son, Kason, 2, a few pointers on how to hold the hockey stick. Although Kason is a bit young, the two seemed to be having a good time.
“My husband has been playing hockey all of his life,” Jamie Maturo said. “My daughter, Briella, is six. She plays with him now.”
In addition to the Flyers team mascot, alumni and current players, the crowd also got to meet the team president Keith Jones and Comcast Spectacor Chairman and CEO Dan Hilferty.
Jones said of the community caravans, “It certainly helps build a fan base and also introduces kids to the sport. For some of them, it starts as street hockey and transfers to the ice.”
Hilferty has a home in Ocean City and was eager to share the excitement of the Flyers franchise with the local community.
“As an Ocean City native, it is so exciting for us to be here. I know this community well. There is a family-friendly spirit in Ocean City,” Hilferty said.
Among the highlights Wednesday was an announcement by Jones and Hilferty of a donation of hockey equipment for the city’s recreation programs.
“I want to thank Dan, Keith and the entire Flyers organization for their support and their generous gift,” Mayor Jay Gillian said in a statement. “Today’s event was great fun for our kids and families, and it was a great way to connect with our Flyers. I’m proud that we were able to host the Caravan, and the team and the organization will always have a second home in Ocean City.”
Hilferty and Gritty will also be a part of the annual Night in Venice boat parade on July 29.
“I’m looking forward to seeing Dan and Gritty again next week for our annual Night in Venice celebration,” Gillian said.
The caravan, now in its seventh year, will be in Sea Isle City on Thursday.
