On This Date In History: May 19, 1974

On May 19, 1974, the Philadelphia Flyers won their first Stanley Cup.  In a six game series they topped the Bobby Orr led Boston Bruins.  The video clip below really says it all.

The 1973 - 74 season was a special one for the Flyers. Their first Cup was won with a lot of skill, perseverance and toughness (you've heard of the Broad Street Bullies, right?)  But there was another contributor to their success that you may not know about. 

In 1969 the Flyers started playing Kate Smith's rendition of God Bless America before some of their most important games.  On those nights the Flyers seemed to win more than they lost. So, on October 11 1973, at the home opener, the Flyers brought in their singing good luck charm.  The Flyers won. Kate was brought in a second time on May 19, 1974. 

You know what happened that night.

The Flyers continue  to keep this tradition alive.  Before big games these days they combine clips of Kate with a live performance by current Flyers pre-game performer, Lauren Hart.

We love the way the Flyers celebrate both their past and present.  And we're not just saying that because they're our hometown team.

Does your team do a good job of keeping their history alive?  Let us know about it.