New York, November 21, 2025
The Philadelphia Flyers are honoring young cancer patients by wearing custom-designed pregame SkateSkins during warmups as part of the NHL’s annual Hockey Fights Cancer initiative, reinforcing solidarity and raising awareness across Philadelphia’s hockey community.
Custom SkateSkins tribute
The Flyers’ players wear adhesive decals on the sides of their skates during pregame warmups, featuring original artwork created by children undergoing cancer treatment. These SkateSkins are produced in collaboration with local hospitals and families affected by pediatric cancer. Each design reflects personal messages and artwork submitted by the young patients themselves, symbolizing their courage and resilience. The players work directly with the children who created these designs, establishing a meaningful connection beyond the ice.
The custom SkateSkins are exclusive to pregame warmups and are not used during official gameplay. This practice serves as a visible tribute during a highly publicized segment of the game, emphasizing awareness and emotional support for families battling pediatric cancer.
Broader campaign and Flyers’ additional efforts
This tribute forms part of the NHL’s Hockey Fights Cancer campaign, a nationwide effort dating back to 1998, in which all teams participate annually with themed events, fundraising, and recognitions to support cancer research and patients. Beyond the SkateSkins, the Flyers extend their commitment through other symbolic gestures: the arena is illuminated in lavender lighting, players don lavender jerseys, and the team’s tunnel is lined with cards inscribed with “I fight for” messages from supporters and families.
Community outreach also plays a critical role in the Flyers’ campaign. Players and organization members engage in hospital visits and various fundraising drives during the Hockey Fights Cancer period, deepening ties with those affected by cancer and contributing to broader awareness and support initiatives.
Impact and significance
The Philadelphia Flyers’ approach underscores the personal impact of cancer on the local community. By spotlighting artwork by young patients and directly involving them in the tribute, the organization elevates the voices and experiences of children confronting cancer. This initiative not only raises public consciousness but also offers emotional encouragement to families during challenging times.
The use of personalized SkateSkins during warmups creates a powerful visual symbol of resilience, hope, and unity, aligning with the NHL’s long-term effort to champion cancer research and bolster support networks. It demonstrates how sports organizations can leverage their platform to drive meaningful social contributions while fostering community connection.
By integrating art, collaboration, and visibility, the Flyers exemplify a comprehensive and compassionate approach to advocacy within the framework of a professional sports event, inspiring both local and national audiences to engage with efforts combating pediatric cancer.