Report: Panthers to fly Stoneman Douglas HS hockey team to nationals
The hockey community is stepping up in support of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School hockey team.
In the wake of a deadly mass shooting that took the lives of 17 staff and students at the school in Parkland, Fla. almost three weeks ago, teams, players, and executives from around the NHL have been doing what they can to turn a tragedy into something positive for a group of high-schoolers who have obviously been going through tough times.
Related: Stoneman Douglas HS hockey team wins state championship 11 days after shooting
After winning the state championship at the end of February, the Stoneman Douglas hockey team has been in need of a lift to the national championship in Minnesota. Enter the Florida Panthers. Team management is reportedly stepping up to pay for the team's trip at the end of March, according to Matthew DeFranks of the South Florida Sun Sentinel.
The Panthers' offer is the latest gesture on behalf of the NHL in support of the team.
First, it was Philadelphia Flyers defenseman and Stoneman Douglas alum Shayne Gostisbehere meeting with the team following Sunday's game against the Panthers:
Shayne Gostisbehere (@s_ghost14) and the Stoneman Douglas state championship-winning hockey team are #MSDStrong. pic.twitter.com/0rYug4oEE4
- NHL (@NHL) March 5, 2018
The team was then invited to practice at BB&T arena on Monday, which was followed by a surprise visit from the Stanley Cup:
Marjory Stoneman Douglas' hockey team practiced at the BB&T Center. Then the Stanley Cup arrived. Pretty cool. pic.twitter.com/eiVRt3VJbN
- Matthew DeFranks (@MDeFranks) March 5, 2018
These acts of kindness cannot take back the tragic events that unfolded, but at the very least, it's a temporary relief for a group of hockey-loving teenagers.
The national championship tournament is set for March 22-26.
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