"Christine and I are extremely excited to start a new chapter in Philadelphia and for us that means jumping right into the community," said Tortorella. "We are extremely passionate about animal welfare and are committed to providing support to the animals that fall through the cracks of the system. I am thankful to The Fanatic for giving us this platform and looking forward to helping the animal rescue shelters in our community."
"As the official broadcast partner of the Philadelphia Flyers, we are excited for the upcoming season and the bright future of this Flyers team," Chuck Damico, Program Director of 97.5 The Fanatic. "We look forward to hearing from Coach Tortorella each week about Flyers hockey as well as provide him with a platform to bring awareness to animal welfare. We are just as passionate about the safety and health of animals here at 97.5 The Fanatic and are happy to support the Tortorellas' foundation."
In 2004, the Tortorella family initiated The John and Christine Tortorella Family Foundation for Giving Back which focuses on partnering with organizations that provide for neglected and abused animals. The Tortorellas have worked with the Flyers to partner with PAWS and PSPCA to support their impactful work of helping animals in need. On each episode of segment on 97.5 The Fanatic, the Flyers will work with PAWS and PSPCA to feature an animal available for adoption.
"When we learned that John Tortorella was to be the new Philadelphia Flyers head coach, we were thrilled that an animal advocate would be bringing attention to the cause here in Philadelphia," said Julie Klim, CEO of the Pennsylvania SPCA. "When we were asked to join the Hockey & Hounds initiative, we did not hesitate. We cannot wait to spread the word about our lifesaving mission to Flyers fans everywhere and hopefully find homes for some amazing pups in the process."
"We are so grateful for over fifteen years of partnership with the Philadelphia Flyers, promoting pet adoption and animal welfare to hundreds of thousands of fans," said Melissa Levy, Executive Director of PAWS. "The awareness they've brought to our mission has helped us rescue and find loving homes for thousands of at-risk cats and dogs and has supported our work to make Philadelphia a no-kill city."
Flyers fans can learn more and view the adoptable animal of the week at
PhiladephiaFlyers.com/HockeyandHounds.
