The Philadelphia Flyers hockey team honored 9-year-old cancer patient Owen Micciche by involving him in their Hockey Fights Cancer game, allowing him to participate in pregame warmups, read the starting lineup, and even coach from the bench.
‣ The Philadelphia Flyers hosted a Hockey Fights Cancer game, honoring 9-year-old Owen Micciche, who has been battling cancer since he was six months old.
‣ The Flyers allowed Owen to participate in pregame warmups, read the starting lineup in the locker room, and stand next to the coach during part of the game.
‣ Despite losing the game, Flyers’ coach John Tortorella emphasized the importance of perspective and the joy of having Owen participate in the game.
It was a special Tuesday night for the Philadelphia Flyers. They were hosting their Hockey Fights Cancer game and had a special honoree – 9-year-old Owen Micciche. The team went above and beyond for Owen, letting him join them for the day and even coaching from the bench during the game.
Owen’s journey with cancer started when he was just six months old. He’s been battling the disease ever since. In July, doctors found new tumors in his brain and spine. Despite the fight he’s been putting up his whole life, Owen still has a long road ahead. But the Flyers gave him a brief respite on Tuesday.
Flyers coach John Tortorella made the day extra special for Owen. He let Owen take a rookie lap during pregame warmups and read the starting lineup in the locker room. To top it off, Owen got to stand next to Tortorella on the bench during part of the game, coaching his favorite team.
After the game, Tortorella spoke about Owen at the press conference. He put into perspective the importance of wins, losses, shots, and scoring chances after spending time with someone like Owen. “It doesn’t mean a g–damn thing,” Tortorella said.
Tortorella added that the team loved having Owen around. Owen even got a bit vocal on the bench during the game. “I’m thrilled that we were a part of it for him tonight,” Tortorella said. “Great kid. He was yelling on the bench. I hope, for a little bit, it helps him. It certainly puts things into perspective when you understand what he’s going through.”
The Flyers ended up losing to the Carolina Hurricanes, 4-1. But the result hardly mattered. Owen had the night of his life, and the team gained some much-needed perspective from their courageous fan.
