Philadelphia Flyers Apologize for Disrespectful Remarks by Social Media Staff
The Philadelphia Flyers have issued a formal apology for the “disrespectful remarks” made by members of their social media staff during a virtual news conference. The team’s president of hockey operations, Keith Jones, expressed his apologies on behalf of the entire organization and emphasized the importance of treating reporters with respect.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Jones stated, “Any disrespect towards reporters is completely unacceptable, especially when they are simply doing their job. We have reached out to the reporter and outlet personally to express our regret, and will continue to promote an environment of mutual respect when working with media.”
The incident in question occurred during a virtual news conference when a reporter asked Philadelphia forward Garnet Hathaway about his decision to join the team during their rebuild. In response to the question, a voice can be heard in the streamed recording making a derogatory comment about the reporter’s repeated questioning. Hathaway, however, remained professional and answered the question without acknowledging the disruption.
The Flyers did not disclose the name of the reporter involved in their statement. It is important to note that this incident comes at a time when the team is striving to improve its performance after failing to qualify for the playoffs for three consecutive years.
Last season, the Flyers finished with a disappointing 31-38-13 record, placing seventh in the Metropolitan Division. As part of their efforts to rebuild and strengthen the team, Hathaway recently joined Philadelphia during free agency on a two-year, $4.75 million contract. The Flyers are hopeful that his addition will contribute to their future success.
While this incident is regrettable, it serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining professionalism and respect in all interactions, including those with members of the media. The role of reporters is crucial in providing coverage and insights into the world of sports, and it is essential for teams and players to recognize and appreciate their contributions.
The Flyers’ swift response and apology demonstrate their commitment to rectifying the situation and fostering a positive working relationship with the media. By reaching out to the reporter and outlet personally, they have taken responsibility for the actions of their social media staff and expressed their regret for any offense caused.
Moving forward, it is crucial for the Flyers to continue promoting an environment of mutual respect when working with the media. Open and respectful communication between teams, players, and reporters is vital for maintaining transparency and fostering positive relationships within the sports community.
In conclusion, the Philadelphia Flyers have issued an apology for the disrespectful remarks made by members of their social media staff during a virtual news conference. The team’s president of hockey operations expressed their regret and emphasized the importance of treating reporters with respect. While this incident is regrettable, it serves as a reminder of the significance of maintaining professionalism and respect in all interactions. The Flyers’ swift response and commitment to promoting an environment of mutual respect are commendable, and it is essential for teams and players to recognize the valuable contributions of reporters in the world of sports.