The Philadelphia Flyers history is rich with triumphs and legendary players. Founded in 1967, the team quickly became a force in the NHL. Known for their aggressive style and passionate fanbase, the Flyers have delivered some of the most exciting Philadelphia Flyers hockey moments. From Stanley Cup victories to unforgettable playoff games, their journey remains a cornerstone of NHL history.
Established
1967
City
Philadelphia
League History
1967 – Present / National Hockey League
Team History
1967 – Present / Philadelphia Flyers
Nickname
Flyers – The Philadelphia Flyers are one of the most iconic teams in the National Hockey League. They have become synonymous with hockey success because they are known for their tenacity and passionate fans. But where did their nickname come from? As it turns out, there is an interesting story behind how “the Flyers” got its start.
Philadelphia Flyers Origin
It all began when Ed Snider founded a team to represent Philadelphia in 1967 as part of an expansion into what was then known as The Original Six (Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks, Detroit Red Wings, Montreal Canadiens, and New York Rangers). Wanting to create a unique name that would capture both his city’s spirit and commitment to excellence on the ice, he chose “Flyers” – inspired by another great Philadelphian, Benjamin Franklin, who had famously said: "Those who would give up essential liberty to purchase temporary safety deserve neither." This phrase resonated deeply with Snider's vision for his team so much that he adopted it as their official moniker - thus becoming one of only two NHL franchises (alongside Calgary Flames) whose names do not end with 'S.'
In addition to being symbolic of freedom and independence, which were essential values during this period, many believe that Snider also wanted something distinctive enough from other sports teams already playing in Philly, such as Phillies or Eagles, which made him settle upon ‘The Flyers.' With its catchy four-letter abbreviation and memorable mascot, Gritty added later on, this simple yet powerful choice had been embraced by generations since then, making them arguably one of the most recognizable brands within professional hockey today!
Championship
Stanley Cup 2
1975, 1974
Arena
2011 – Present / Wells Fargo Center
2003 – 2010 / Wachovia Center
1998 – 2003 / First Union Center
1996 – 1998 / CoreStates Center
1967 – 1996 / Spectrum
Owner
1996 – Present / Comcast Spectacor and Ed Snider
1967 – 1996 / Ed Snider
- 1967
- 1974
- 1975
- 1996
Philadelphia Flyers Team Formation
While attending a basketball game on November 29, 1964, at the Boston Garden, Ed Snider, the then vice-president of the Philadelphia Eagles, observed a crowd of Boston Bruins fans lining up to purchase tickets to see a last-place ice hockey team. He began making plans for a new arena upon hearing the NHL was looking to expand due to fears ...
Stanley Cup Winner 1974
The 1974 Stanley Cup Final was contested by the Boston Bruins and the Philadelphia Flyers. The Flyers made their first Final appearance and the Bruins returned to the Finals after having won the 1972 Stanley Cup Finals. The Flyers won the best-of-seven series four games to two and became the first team from the 1967 Expansion to win the Stanley ...
Stanley Cup Winner 1975
The 1975 Stanley Cup Final championship series was played by the Buffalo Sabres, making their first Finals appearance and the defending champion Philadelphia Flyers. The Flyers would win the best-of-seven series four games to two. This was the first Final to have two non-“Original Six” teams since the 1967 expansion. The 1975 Flyers are the last Stanley Cup championship team ...
Wells Fargo Center Opens
The Flyers said goodbye to the Spectrum and prepared to open a new arena the CoreStates Center for the next season. The Wells Fargo Center (Spectrum II (prior to construction), formerly the CoreStates Center, First Union Center, and Wachovia Center) is a multi-purpose indoor arena located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Wells Fargo Center lies at the southwest corner of the ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Philadelphia Flyers History
The Philadelphia Flyers history is filled with triumphs, legendary players, and unforgettable moments in Philadelphia Flyers hockey. Founded in 1967 as part of the NHL expansion from its Original Six, the Flyers quickly became a dominant team. Over their 53-year history, they have won two Stanley Cups and appeared in eight Finals series. The team also developed heated rivalries with the New York Islanders and Pittsburgh Penguins, making every matchup highly anticipated.
Throughout their history, the Flyers have featured some of hockey’s most iconic players, including Bobby Clarke, Bernie Parent, Mark Howe, and Eric Lindros. These stars played pivotal roles in the franchise’s early successes. The team won division titles and captured back-to-back Stanley Cups in 1974 and 1975. During the “Broad Street Bullies” era, the Flyers became famous for their physical, aggressive style of play, earning respect and notoriety across the league. While their tough style led to penalties, it also helped establish the Flyers as a force in Philadelphia Flyers hockey.
Flyers Achievements
In the 1980s and 1990s, the Philadelphia Flyers history remained competitive, regularly making playoff appearances and producing outstanding talent like Eric Lindros, who led the team with remarkable scoring and leadership. The 2009 season was another memorable campaign, with the Flyers reaching the Stanley Cup Finals before falling to the Chicago Blackhawks in a hard-fought series. Despite challenges over the years, the franchise has maintained a passionate fanbase that continues to support the team through every season.
The Flyers’ recent years show a commitment to both skill and intensity. With emerging stars and veteran leadership, the team continues to compete at high levels in the NHL. The Philadelphia Flyers history reflects resilience, iconic moments, and a strong winning culture, making them one of the league’s most respected teams. The organization’s focus on developing talent and maintaining their trademark aggressive play ensures that Philadelphia Flyers hockey remains exciting for fans and that the team will continue to achieve success in the decades ahead.
Retired Number
1 / Bernie Parent
2 / Mark Howe
4 / Barry Ashbee
7 / Bill Barber
16 / Bobby Clarke
88 / Eric Lindros
99 / Wayne Gretzky
*Blue is this team’s history