Life of a Philly Sports Fan

Everything you need to know about what sports mean to the City of Brotherly Love.

[phillysports-blog]

We want our swagger back Howie!

After a poor 2015 season, it seems like there is a lot of reconstructing to be done in Philadelphia. Through the 2000’s, we witnessed the electrifying Allen Iverson and the Sixers, and the Phillies World series in ’08 but as of late the life of a Philly sports fan has been a depressing one. Through thick and thin one thing we could always count on was the hard hitting birds, and this past year we lacked even that! Chip Kelly molded the team to his liking- a soft west coast, offensive minded, buncha’ pansies who can’t even make tackles anymore. Now he’s gone and we’re left to put the pieces together. So with today’s draft, whether its Jared Goff, quarterback from California, or Carson Wentz, QB from North Dakota State, let’s hope we make the right decision and can get back to competing for Championships and Super Bowls again. We just want our Philly swagger back! It is an honor to play in this city, let’s hope whoever’s name goes on the back of that jersey after today brings some spark back to Philadelphia.

-Austin Regan

[phillysports-blog]

Bradford wants out of Philly so bad, forget him.

With the recent stirring power moves pulled by Howie Roseman to make the mega-trade to obtain a 2nd overall pick in this year’s draft, the mentally weak Bradford’s decision was claimed to be made much easier. Rumors stated that Bradford was looking to take his supposed talent somewhere else previous, but after the trade was made the rumors were legitimized. Apparently someone’s afraid of a little competition? One of my pop’s famous saying was, “if you can’t handle the heat get the hell out the kitchen”. I say if you can’t appreciate the best fans in the world, get the hell out of Philadelphia. Good riddance Bradford. Your two interceptions a game won’t be missed! Hopefully the future brings young players with that more traditional Philly attitude. We want real winners here only!

-Austin Regan

[phillysports-blog]

The Big 5?

Philadelphia college basketball has a tradition called the Big 5. It is known as an informal association of local Philadelphia colleges that have been playing each other since 1955. Head coach of Villanova’s basketball team Jay Wright is known as the modern godfather of the Big 5. The best rivalry in the Big 5 is Villanova vs. Temple. It is shocking that Temple is the only team that has consistently challenged Villanova. No other city has a tradition quite like the Philadelphia Big 5. The worst rivalry in the Big 5 is Villanova vs. Saint Joseph’s. Why is that? Because it is a joke. It is known as the Holy War. Listed below are the Big 5 rankings:

1 Villanova: 24.5 Stars 2 Temple: 19 Stars 3 Penn: 13.5 Stars 4 Saint Joseph’s (PA): 11.5 Stars 5 La Salle: 8 Stars

[phillysports-blog]

Kris Jenkins with the shots boy!

Kris Jenkins hit a three at the buzzer, and No.2 seed Villanova won the NCAA Men's Basketball National Championship in thrilling fashion over No.1 seed North Carolina. The final score was 77-74 at NRG Stadium in Houston. Fans were shocked because it was the first buzzer-beater on a three-pointer in National Championship history. This was head coach Jay Wright's first championship in a national title game. It was Villanova’s second championship in history, with the first win in 1985. After the game there was an insane amount of people on Villanova’s campus. With the excitement from the fans there were riots occurring and arrests. Approximately eight Villanova fans were arrested during the celebration after the game. “Thirty-seven people were treated at an area triage center; seven people were also transported to a local hospital. Flanagan says all the injuries were minor.” Congratulations to Villanova for their outstanding game! Good luck next season.

[phillysports-blog]

Transportation 🚇

The sports complex is located right off of I-95, so there should be no problem finding it (if that is your route) right off the exit. There are huge parking lots in the area. Even with big crowds, there should be no problem with access. However, if you do not have a designated driver, public transportation is the best way to go! If using public transportation from North Philly or center city, you will likely find yourself using the only SEPTA corporate-sponsored subway station, the AT&T station of the Broad Street Line. If you are traveling from the suburbs, you’ll take Regional Rail to the Suburban Station, then cut through to City Hall Station where you’ll transfer to the Broad Street Subway. Additionally, if you are not afraid to spend a couple dollars more, depending on your location and distance, driving services like Lyft or Uber might be just as easy. And of course there are also cabs all around center city. The city of Philadelphia makes transportation a no hassle task with plenty of convenient options. Once you arrive, parking is made just as easy. Check out this parking map provided for your convenience. Enjoy the game!

-Emily Burke

[phillysports-blog]

                                                     In G We Trust

In 2008 the same year the Phillies were blessed with a World Series ring the Flyers were blessed with the future of their organization, Claude Giroux. After being drafted by the Flyers in 2006 it wasn't till about midway through the season in 2008 that Giroux made it to the majors. This quickly lead to the era of Claude Giroux. After just one full season playing for the Flyers they made huge changes. Getting rid of Mike Richards and Jeff Carter due to problems in the locker room and a divide in the team G quickly found himself as the centre on the first line. He took this role and grabbed it by the horns in the 2010-2011 season becoming the clubs top point-scorer. What’s even crazier is just two seasons later in 2012 after being the top scorer two years in a row Claude Giroux was named captain of the Philadelphia Flyers. He has continually been a major part in our offense leading the team in points and in character. With this season in the books looking back no one looked at the Flyers as a potential playoff team. They were said to be in a “rebuilding” phase, but they showed just how much heart and talent they had. With so many young guys and fresh players the Flyers look to be a threat in the future and with Giroux as their captain they sure seem to be in good hands. 

- A.J. Shapiro

[phillysports-blog]

The Phuture

By: Ron Pellegrino

The future of the Philadelphia Phillies is surely a bright one. With the likes of Starting pitchers Vince Velasquez, former #7 overall pick Aaron Nola, and Jarrod Eickhoff to go along with potential super star third basemen Maikel Franco the Phillies are headed in the right direction. According to baseballamerica.com the Phillies have the 8th ranked farm system going into 2016. They also have 6 players ranked in the top 100 MLB prospects according to MLB.com. Here are those 6 players

1) J.P. Crawford: A shortstop who is ranked #5 in MLB’s top 100 prospects. ETA to the MLB is late 2016.

2) Mark Appel: Is a starting pitcher who was originally drafted #1 overall in 2013. He is ranked #43 in MLB’s top 100 prospects. His ETA is 2016

3) Jake Thompson: Is a starting pitcher who was acquired from the Texas Rangers as part of the Cole Hamels trade. He is ranked #51 in MLB’s top 100 prospects. His ETA is 2017.

4) Nick Williams: Is a right fielder acquired from the Texas Rangers in the Cole Hamels deal. He has the potential to be a perennial all-star. He is ranked #55 in MLB’s top 100 prospects. His ETA is late 2016

5) Jorge Alfaro: is currently a catcher who was acquired in the Cole Hamels deal. He is more likely to change positions in the next few years. He is ranked #59 in MLB’s top 100 prospects and is the #1 ranked catcher. His ETA is 2017

6) Cornelius Randolph: Randolph is a corner outfielder who was drafted #10 overall by the Phillies on the 2015 draft. He is ranked #85 in MLB’s top 100 prospects. His ETA is 2019

Another thing to note is that the Phillies hold the #1 overall in this year’s 2016 MLB draft. The Phillies are expected to take a starting pitcher with this pick. The two players that are in the running for this pick are as follows

1) A.J. Puk: A 6'7 left-handed pitcher at Florida University.

2) Jason Groome: A left-handed pitcher who is a jersey native and is a Philly fan himself. He is currently a senior in high school formerly at IMG Academy.

Once the Phillies make this pick they will jump even higher in the farm system rankings. The future of the Phillies is very bright and I believe everyone should jump on the bandwagon now before it’s too late!

[phillysports-blog]

We are just misunderstood

The ongoing stereotype that describes sports fans of Philadelphia as the meanest and most abusive needs to handled. We have for a long time been number 1 on pollsters lists of the worst sports fans. Although there are lists of “evidential" events that have been stacked against us over the years, these rumors could not be more wrong. First of all, none of these events even took place in Philadelphia! One of the criticisms that is stacked against us is our “excessive” amount of booing. One lifelong Philly sports fan states, “People boo everywhere, it’s just overly criticized in Philadelphia. It’s a wonder Philadelphia fans don’t boo more. Instead, we are loyal to our teams, coming back year after year, losing season after losing season”. We haven’t had the greatest records, (which of course brings frustration) but we are still loyal to our city and to our teams. So what if we are aggressive! This is spirit! those who say we are “mean”, they are mistaken; we are just die hard fans. Keep it up Philly!

-Emily Burke

[phillysports-blog]

That’s All She Wrote

Being a Philadelphia fan has been heartbreak over and over again for all of sports. It’s almost sad that all we expect as fans is to make it to the playoffs. Now making it to the playoffs is no joke, but the satisfaction of “just” making it to the playoffs has to end. In a city that has no super bowl wins, hasn’t won the NBA championship since 87, and hasn't brought the cup back since 75, losing has become second nature. While the flyers have made six Stanley Cup appearances since 75 they haven't been able to come out on top and to quote Ricky Bobby “If you ain’t first, you’re last”. This year for the Flyers didn't look any different losing the first three, but they did have some Philly fight in them and didn't role over and die. The Caps being the best team in the NHL could and most likely will go on to win the whole thing. Now what’s tough is while it wasn't an embarrassment and this season it was a blessing to even make it to the playoffs we haven't been able to find that extra push. Coming so close over and over again the Flyers are a powerful team in the NHL only looking better for Years to come with such a young club and great leaders setting an example. 

-A.J. Shapiro 

[phillysports-blog]

The recent firing of Eagles Head Coach Chip Kelly has stirred up plenty of talk among beloved bird’s fans for the past couple months. Some say it is as simple as the fact that it wasn’t working out. Obviously after this season’s debacle and poor record, the team needed a change. It is strange however, that they would allow him to step into the Head of Personnel and Player Operations position, and only give him one year to make his desired changes. Now we are left with a totally redesigned team, set up for Chip Kelly’s system and no Chip Kelly. In my opinion, firing him after one year might have been a tad haste, but what truly is the reasoning for Lurie letting him go? It has been murmured through the grape vine that on the night before Chip’s firing, Lurie had a dream in which his beloved great aunt who had recently passed away reached out to him. In the dream she instructed her nephew to fire Kelly and that if he did, he would finally bring a Lombardi trophy back to Philly within the next five years; a very promising prophecy! Think I rather go with believing in that over the fact that Chip was just an ass and Lurie had enough of his snide, pompous self.

-Austin Regan

[phillysports-blog]

Changes being made

With the way the 76ers have been playing, Sam Hinkie has decided to step down as general manager and the president of basketball operations for the Philadelphia 76ers. In a letter Hinkie wrote "Given all the changes to our organization, I no longer have the confidence that I can make good decisions on behalf of investors in the Sixers-- you. So I should step down. And I have.” Hinkie was given a lot of criticism for has approach of stockpiling draft picks and the on going losing strikes of the team but as a 76ers fan all we can do is “Believe in the process”. I think Hinkie has setup a good future for the team and will later be recognized for it.

-Tori TIlotta

(via GIPHY)

[phillysports-blog]

Oops We Did It Again

Once again the 76ers have made an appearance on the Worst 82-game record list. Their first appearance was in 1972-73 with 9 wins and 73 loses. Now 2015-16 they're back for their second appearance but this time improving their stats a little with 10 wins and 72 loses. Not only are the 76ers on this list twice, but they have the worst stats on the whole list!

-Tori Tilotta

(via GIPHY)

[phillysports-blog]

Bright future ahead for the 76ers?

As of right now the 76ers are the worst team in the NBA and as a Philadelphia sports fan this hits me right in the feels. Philadelphia sports fans are known for always rooting for our teams and doing it with pride. Since the 76ers are doing so bad right now it gives them a higher chance of getting the first pick in the draft which will most likely be Ben Simmons. Another thing that will help the 76ers future is if Joel Embiid makes a full recovery. It is said that Joel has the talent to change the outlook in Philadelphia. With all of these factors I know the 76ers will have a bright future and even if they don’t the fans will still be in the stands cheering them on!

-Tori Tilotta

(via GIPHY)

[phillysports-blog]

The 2016 Philadelphia Phillies

By: Ron Pellegrino

The Philadelphia Phillies were coming into this season of a league’s worst record (63-99). After having a good record of (15-11) in the Grapefruit Spring Training league in Florida they were coming into the 2016 Major League Baseball season on a high note despite the low expectations for the season. After blowing two late inning leads during the first series of the season the Phillies bullpen seemed to be the big issue for this season. After relieving Dalier Hinojosa, who is 0-1 with a 3.48 ERA on the season, of his closing duties and handing them over to Jeanmar Gomez the Phillies are 10-6. They originally have started the season 0-4 before giving the closer role to Gomez. Jeanmar Gomez has taken the role by the horns by being a perfect 5 for 5 in save opportunities. The only question going forward is whether or not the bullpen can withstand this incredible workload which is very doubtful. Another bright point is that rookie Vince Velasquez has been brilliant so far posting a 3-1 record the through 4 starts with a 1.79 ERA. One of his starts was close to perfection on April 14th he pitched a complete game shutout with 16 strikeouts and only allowing 3 hits. He is a huge prospect for the Phillies and will be a cornerstone for the future of this franchise. There is a lot of baseball to be played, but as we finish off the first month of play it looks like the Phillies are heading in the right direction.

[phillysports-blog]

There are so many places outside the stadiums to go before you go to the games but there is a lot of places in the stadiums to get a bite to eat. If you want to experience the game in full you should definitely eat at the stadium, even if you do have to pay a few extra bucks it’s worth it. There’s a lot of the same resturants and stands in each stadium. Here are some of the well known places in each stadium that should be on the top of your list:

Citizen’s Bank Park (Phillies)

Harry the K’s, named after beloved announcer Harry Kalas, this is home to some of the best food in the ballpark. A lot of sandwiches

 Federal Donuts stand, where you can get chicken and waffles and the famous donuts that will have everyone talking.

 Campos, of course you can never go wrong with a cheesesteak at a baseball game.

 Bull’s BBQ, if your craving anything and everything barbecue then you should go here for a good pulled pork sandwich

 Chickie’s and Petes, famous crab fries…. you can never go wrong with them.

 Lincoln Financial Field (Eagles)

Pizzeria Vetri, a custom brick pizza oven and barbecue sandwiches

 Quick and Carmichael’s BBQ, Chipotle Mac & Cheese—homemade chipotle flavored mac & cheese, topped with Cool Ranch Doritos and black cherry smoked pulled pork or maple sugar smoked pulled chicken

 Wells Fargo Center (Flyers & Sixers)

P.J Whelihan Pub: a sports bar and if you happen to go to a game on a Tuesday night, it’s wing night and wings are 50 cents each.

 Boardwalk Fries, if you’re not a huge crabfries person, these boardwalk fries are a good alternative and great to snack on during the game

 Dippin’ Dots, the ice cream that’s circular and melts in your mouth. Perfect for younger kids!

-Sierra Palantino

[phillysports-blog]

Our Home

The South Philadelphia Sports Complex is the home of Philadelphia’s beloved teams. This area of the city is strictly devoted to the fun sporting events everyone loves to go to. Each venue is includes convenient parking, various accommodations that make the games so enjoyable.

Lincoln Financial Field

This stadium opened in 2003 and is home to our very own Philadelphia Eagles (NFL). The field also generously holds Temple (NCAA) football games, annual Army-Navy (NCAA) football games, international soccer, monster truck events, and concerts. Fan favorites Tony Luke’s and Chickie’s and Pete’s famous crab fries can be purchased within the stadium. 

Citizens Bank Park

This field is home to the Philadelphia Phillies (MLB). Some concerts are held here as well, but mainly reserved for the baseball games. The great atmosphere at this stadium makes the games that much more enjoyable. Food options include: Bulls BBQ, Campos, Tony Luke’s, Federal Donuts, and of course Chickie’s and Pete’s.

Wells Fargo Center

The Wells Fargo holds the Philadelphia Flyers (NHL), and Philadelphia 76ers (NBA) games. However, the Wells Fargo Center is also known for holding various shows and big concerts, and Philadelphia Wings (NLL) lacrosse. Some places to eat inside the arena include: Campos, Chickie’s and Pete’s and PJ Whelihan's. 

XFINITY Live!

Also conveniently located in the sports complex is sports bar Xfinity Live. With various places to eat and hang out it is a must. There is something for everyone and the perfect spot before during and after all sporting events!

-Emily Burke

[phillysports-blog]

Future chaos on Temple University’s campus?

Temple plans to build a football stadium instead of playing at the Lincoln financial field. They feel as if it would be more convenient for the players as well as the fans. They proposed a $35,000-seat football stadium with an estimated cost of $100 million. This plan calls for a fund-raising campaign of $50 million to support this project. Temple University will spend no more then $1 million for initial designs and studies. They are in charge of collaborating with the community members and government officials to address the residents concerns and the development, such as parking, trash noise, etc. If the plan continuous successfully, Temple will begin construction of the stadium in 2017. They believe that the university needs to address bigger projects before going into something huge like a million dollar stadium. Many protestors say the North Philadelphia location where the university wants to put the stadium is disrespectful to the residents who live there. Some students enjoy tailgating before the temple game at the Lincoln financial field.