Florida Panthers Celebrate Stanley Cup Win with Exclusive Ring Ceremony

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — The Florida Panthers marked a momentous occasion with an exclusive ceremony, awarding Stanley Cup championship rings to their team members at a private event on Monday. The celebrated event took place nearly four months after the team clinched its first-ever Stanley Cup by defeating the Edmonton Oilers with a score of 2-1 on June 24.

The illustrious rings, designed by team owners Vincent and Teresa Viola, were presented to players, coaches, and members of the organization in a gesture of unity and triumph. Each ornate piece of jewelry boasts 617 gemstones, predominantly diamonds, set in yellow gold. The design includes an interior engraving of a rat, reflecting a unique tradition in which fans throw plastic rats onto the ice following a victory. “It’s incredible. I’ve never seen a piece of jewelry like this in my entire life,” exclaimed Matthew Tkachuk, a star player for the Panthers, expressing his awe at the intricate design.

Bill Zito, the Panthers’ general manager and president of hockey operations, echoed Tkachuk’s sentiments, highlighting the thoughtfulness of the Viola family. “You can just tell the love they put into making it,” he stated while showing off his new ring.

The ceremony included a special display of the Stanley Cup, providing a fitting backdrop for the presentations and speeches. Throughout the event, owner Vincent Viola personally thanked several key players, including Sam Reinhart and Carter Verhaeghe, emphasizing their crucial roles during the championship season. Viola remarked to Reinhart, “You chose us, we’re blessed, and we’re humbled.” He further hinted at the team’s future aspirations by suggesting another potential ring ceremony next year.

The distribution of rings followed formal speeches and recognitions, with all rings being opened simultaneously after a countdown, adhering to the Viola family’s stipulation to share the moment communally. The Violas themselves received rings last, marking the culmination of a ceremony originally planned for public attendance, which was adapted in response to Hurricane Milton.

The Panthers will soon transition from celebration to competition, as they prepare to unveil their championship banner at the FLA Live Arena. This event precedes their season opener against the Boston Bruins, heralding a fresh chapter for the reigning champions.