Panthers' Sam Bennett keeps his "promise" to father with special Stanley Cup celebration
Florida Panthers star Sam Bennett made a promise to his father that depended on him winning the Stanley Cup Final. After a brilliant season, Bennett accomplished his goal and there was just one thing left to do: eat cereal out of the cup.
When he was a child, he ate Cap'n Crunch out of a hockey trophy that also had a cup on it. He promised his father that he would recreate the iconic photo if he ever had the Stanley Cup, which he does now.
Bennett took to Instagram to provide the update, sharing the throwback picture and then a new one with him and his father standing next to the trophy filled with orange Cap'n Crunch kernels.
Another photo was also shared, with Bennet with friends and family around the trophy. Celebratory champagne was sprayed everywhere to honor the impressive victory.
Bennett almost came up short of keeping his promise as the Panthers fell in the Stanley Cup Final in 2022-2023. While it was difficult to bounce back after a crushing defeat, he and the Panthers did.
They quickly jumped out to a 3-0 lead and had seemingly exorcised their demons. However, the Edmonton Oilers charged back furiously, forcing a Game 7. Thanks to a clutch 2-1 victory though, Florida prevailed in front of their home fans.
Sam Bennett hosts event for local fans with Stanley Cup
Sam Bennett got his start at a local hockey rink where he grew up, and he decided to take the Stanley Cup there to inspire young players to follow their hockey dreams.
He said via Bradford Today:
“It’s really incredible to be back here, right at the rink where I learned to play. If you ever have any doubt, not think it’s possible, I’m here to tell you that it is possible,” Bennett said.
Hundreds of fans showed up to meet him and see the trophy and the mayor of East Gwillimbury told everyone that Bennett was an inspiration.