[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 90 (Tuesday, June 18, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1103]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO THE FLORIDA PANTHERS

                                 ______


                         HON. E. CLAY SHAW, JR.

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 18, 1996

  Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 1995-96 Eastern 
Conference champions, the Florida Panthers. The Panthers are a team of 
dedicated men who accomplished an athletic feat that many believed 
impossible. Those in the know never thought that a 3-year-old expansion 
team could defeat the odds and make it to the Stanley Cup Finals, but 
this special team did just that. The Florida Panthers captured the 
hearts of thousands of Florida fans, and their storybook season is one 
which will never be forgotten. The precedent for excellence has been 
set; the skeptics have been silenced.
  After a grueling 80-game regular season schedule, the Panthers 
traveled to the next level; the National Hockey League playoffs. The 
experts said the Boston Bruins, the Philadelphia Flyers, and the 
Pittsburgh Penguins were all better teams, but the Panthers never 
relinquished their pride; they hung tough and piled up the wins. 
Finally, the Panthers lived a hockey players' greatest dream--a young 
upstart team challenging the veteran squad of the former Quebec 
Nordiques for Lord Stanley's Cup. Although the Florida rat pack showed 
integrity and professional zeal, the Avalanche took the cup. The dream 
ended in an all-out, no-holds-barred triple overtime game, and the 
Panthers showed what it takes to reach greatness.
  Mr. Speaker, the Florida Panthers have ignited the passions of our 
south Florida community. My congratulations to Marti and Wayne 
Huizenga, and the Panther organization for putting together a group of 
men committed to teamwork, winning, and community spirit; to Coach Doug 
McLean and his coaching staff for their dedicated work throughout the 
year; to the rat crazy fans of the Florida Panthers for their support 
and enthusiasm; and finally to the Eastern Conference champions for a 
great season and many, many memories.
  Mr. Speaker, the Panthers are a team and an organization that 
exemplifies hard work and the importance of community, and I urge my 
colleagues to join me in honoring true champions--the Florida Panthers.
  Congratulations Panthers.

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