Hockey fans are different.
Louder. Smarter. More loyal.
Also… occasionally unhinged.
And while part of hockey culture is chirping, booing, and getting into it — there’s a line. If you cross it, you’re not “passionate.”
You’re getting escorted out.
The Flyers Example: When It Goes Too Far
At a recent Philadelphia Flyers playoff game, two fans were ejected from the arena during a rivalry matchup with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Here’s the part that got people talking:
- The entire crowd was chanting at the Penguins
- Typical rivalry stuff — loud, aggressive, emotional
- These two fans claimed they were doing the same thing as everyone else
But reports suggest they were:
- Directing it specifically at players on the bench
- Going nonstop
- Likely crossing from “crowd energy” into targeted harassment
That’s the difference.
👉 Chanting with the crowd = part of the game
👉 Targeting individuals relentlessly = problem
Rule #1: Chirp the Jersey, Not the Person
Hockey is built on chirping. It’s part of the culture.
- Boo the opposing team
- Chant at rivals
- Let the ref hear it
But once it turns into:
- Personal attacks
- Nonstop screaming at specific players
- Anything crossing into threats or abuse
You’re done.
Even in places like Philly — where fans are known for bringing it — there’s still a line.
Rule #2: You Paid to Be There… So Act Like It
Tickets aren’t cheap.
Nobody around you:
- Wants to hear one guy screaming all game
- Wants their kid sitting next to a meltdown
- Wants the game experience hijacked
There’s a difference between:
- Being loud
- Being that guy
You know exactly who that guy is.
Don’t be him.
Rule #3: Respect the Game (Even When It Gets Heated)
Hockey gets intense:
- Big hits
- Fights
- Rivalries
Fans feed off it — and players feed off fans. In fact, players openly talk about how much crowd energy matters during big games
But there’s a difference between:
- Fueling the atmosphere
- Becoming the distraction
Once security is involved, you’ve officially made it about you instead of the game.
That’s a loss.
Rule #4: Passion Is Good — Control Is Better
The best hockey fans:
- Are loud
- Know the game
- Bring energy
But they also:
- Know when to dial it back
- Understand the difference between fun and crossing the line
Even in the most intense environments, there’s an unwritten code.
Break it, and you’re not part of the culture anymore.
The Reality
Hockey crowds are supposed to be:
- Rowdy
- Emotional
- Electric
That’s what makes the sport different.
But if you:
- Make it personal
- Make it nonstop
- Make it uncomfortable for everyone else
👉 You’re not adding to the experience
👉 You’re getting removed from it
Final Thought
Cheer hard. Boo louder. Chirp when it’s deserved.
Just don’t confuse being a fan with being the problem.
Because the second you do…
You’re walking up the stairs with security.
