DAVIE, Fla. – Excitement buzzed outside CanesWear on Monday morning as Florida Panthers fans lined up for a special post-championship autograph signing.
Among the eager crowd was Rosy Ayala, a dedicated Cats fan who couldn’t contain her enthusiasm.
“I’m super excited!”Ayala said.
Fans gathered early, some hours before the event, to secure their spot in line at the Davie store located at 2655 S. University Dr.
Panthers fan Mike Taylor arrived early, anticipating the chaos that usually accompanies such events.
“I’m here early because I’m like alright I’ve been to many of these events and it gets crazy,” he said.
The event featured Cats players Anton Lundell and Niko Mikkola, who signed gear for their beloved fans.
Cheyn Bartels, who was the first in line with his beach chair, spoke to Local 10 Nes about significance of the occasion.
“I felt like this was a great opportunity to meet two great players,” he said.
For fans, securing an autograph from Lundell cost $49, while Mikkola’s signature was priced at $39— an expense fans deemed worthwhile.
“Lundell is one of my favorite players,” said Rosy, a diehard Panthers fan.
CanesWear employee Brett Gittelman shared his excitement about his company hosting the event.
“We have done several autograph signings in the past for Miami Hurricanes, Dolphins and other players, but it’s the first time we have any Florida Panthers, which is really exciting,” Gittelman said.
The autograph signing capped off a memorable weekend for Panthers fans, who braved downpouring rain on Sunday to celebrate the team’s historic championship parade along Fort Lauderdale Beach.
Reflecting the optimism for the future, Taylor voiced his hopes for another strong season.
“I’m hoping we at least get close to repeating,” he said.
The Panthers announced Monday that the team had resigned forward Sam Reinhart and defenceman Dmitry Kulikov.
CLICK HERE to see more photos and videos of the Panthers’ Parade of Champions celebration on Sunday.
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