The Philadelphia Flyers begin their quest for the franchise's third Stanley Cup. Unfortunately they will do so without their leader.
Ed Snider, co-founder and chairman, died this morning at age 83. Snider was instrumental in bringing hockey to Philadelphia in 1966 and by the early 1970's built a dynasty and brought a love and enthusiasm between a sport and a city. The Flyers went to three consecutive Stanley Cup Finals in 1974-76, winning back-to-back titles in '74 and '75. Philadelphia became the first expansion team to win hockey's coveted trophy.
Snider wasn't just known for his love of the Flyers. He became a successful entrepreneur in the record industry. In 1974 Snider created Spectacor, a company that owned both the Flyers and their home arena, the Spectrum, which also was home to the NBA's Philadelphia 76ers. Spectacor also developed PRISM, a cable outlet that air the home games of the Flyers, 76ers and the Philadelphia Phillies and WIP, an all-sports radio station.
Snider is survived by his wife, Lin Spivak, and his six children. The NHL and the city of Philadelphia has truly lost a legendary figure.
photo courtesy of http://articles.philly.com