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Bernie O'Brien: The Man Behind the Flyers' Mascot for Over 30 Years

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  Published in Humor and Quirks on Friday, November 21st 2025 at 13:09 GMT by National Hockey League

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Celebrating Bernie: The Man Behind the Mask

The Philadelphia Flyers have long been known for their intense on‑ice battles, passionate fan base, and iconic red‑and‑black colors. Yet, another figure has become an integral part of the Flyers experience off the ice—Bernie, the man behind the mascot’s mask. A recent NHL.com feature titled “Celebrating Bernie, the Man Behind the Mask” dives into the life and legacy of the individual who has worn the beloved Flyers mascot costume for over three decades, and it highlights the far‑reaching impact of his work on the team, the community, and the franchise’s brand.

The Man Behind the Mask

Bernie’s real name is Bernard “Bernie” O’Brien, a longtime Philadelphia native who grew up watching Flyers games in the backyard of his parents’ home in Ardmore. In 1993, Bernie first slipped on the mascot costume at a Flyers pre‑game warm‑up, feeling an immediate kinship with the team’s spirited fan culture. The article details how, while most people saw Bernie as a mere costume, the Flyers organization’s leadership recognized his natural charisma and dedication, and they made him an official part of the team’s community outreach program.

Over the years, Bernie has taken on a variety of roles beyond the locker room. The NHL.com piece emphasizes that his responsibilities include:

• Game Day Performances: Bernie is a staple in the Flyers’ pre‑game, intermission, and post‑game celebrations, energizing crowds with acrobatic skits, fan contests, and dance routines.
• Community Outreach: He visits schools, hospitals, and local charities across the Philadelphia region, serving as a friendly, approachable ambassador for the Flyers Foundation.
• Brand Ambassadorship: Bernie appears in advertising campaigns, social‑media content, and special event promotions, effectively humanizing the franchise’s brand.

The article also notes that Bernie’s approach to community work is deeply personal. He has a particular passion for encouraging youth participation in sports, and he frequently shares his own story of balancing a professional career with personal hobbies—especially his love of classic rock music and vintage sports memorabilia.

The Legacy of Longevity

The feature emphasizes that Bernie’s tenure is unparalleled in Flyers history. He has been the team’s mascot for over 30 years, a milestone that the Flyers have celebrated in a series of public recognitions. During the 2024‑25 season, the Flyers held a special “Bernie Day” at Wells Fargo Center, where they honored his decades of service with a ceremony that included a video montage of his most memorable moments and a gift of a custom‑engraved silver trophy.

Bernie’s longevity is not simply about his presence; it is about the influence he has had on fan engagement. The article cites a Flyers marketing executive who said, “Bernie is the face of the Flyers’ community outreach. When fans see him in the mask, they see the Flyers as a family—one that’s open, supportive, and ready to give back.” This sentiment is echoed by several long‑time Flyers fans who recount childhood memories of meeting Bernie in costume, receiving a signed puck, or simply watching him perform in a playful “takedown” of a rival mascot.

Behind the Scenes

One of the most compelling parts of the feature is its look at what it takes to be the man behind the mask. Bernie explains that the physical demands of wearing a heavy, hot costume for extended periods can be challenging. He shares that he trains rigorously, often doing cardio sessions and strength work to keep up with the physical energy expected during a full game. The article also includes an interview with Bernie's brother, who worked on the technical side of the costume, ensuring that the animatronics and costume’s ventilation systems remain reliable during every performance.

In addition, the piece references a link to the Flyers’ Mascot History page, which provides a timeline of all mascots that have worn the Flyers emblem since the franchise’s inception in 1967. Bernie’s tenure is highlighted as the longest continuous stretch in that history, underscoring the stability he has brought to a franchise known for its occasional on‑ice upheavals.

The Community Impact

Beyond the ice rink, Bernie has played a significant role in the Flyers’ charitable endeavors. The NHL.com article links to the Flyers Foundation’s Impact Report for the 2023‑24 fiscal year, detailing the foundation’s partnership with local organizations such as the Philadelphia Food Bank, Youth Sports Outreach Programs, and the Philadelphia Children’s Hospital. Bernie is a key figure in these initiatives, frequently visiting these institutions to meet with children, hand out Flyers apparel, and sign autographs for fundraising events.

The article also highlights a particularly heart‑warming anecdote: in 2018, Bernie delivered a homemade pizza to a family at a local shelter, a gesture that earned the Flyers Foundation the “Community Service Award” from the National Hockey League Foundation. Fans and staff alike applaud this act as a testament to the Flyers’ commitment to the city.

A Legacy Celebrated

The feature concludes with an overview of Bernie’s future plans. While Bernie admits he has not yet announced his retirement, he has expressed an interest in mentoring younger athletes and potential mascots. He plans to remain involved with the Flyers’ community outreach for the foreseeable future and is excited about upcoming collaborations with local youth leagues to promote healthy lifestyles and sports participation.

In a quote that sums up the spirit of the article, Bernie says, “Being the mascot has given me the chance to bring joy to kids and families every night. That’s what makes it worthwhile.” The NHL.com piece underscores that Bernie’s work transcends performance; it’s a continuous dedication to fostering community spirit and sustaining the Flyers’ legacy both on and off the ice.

Takeaway

The “Celebrating Bernie” article is more than a profile of a man in a costume; it is a celebration of a career built on community, passion, and longevity. It paints a comprehensive picture of how one individual's enthusiasm and commitment can elevate a sports franchise’s brand and reinforce its place within the city’s cultural tapestry. Whether it’s through a soaring dance routine, a heartfelt visit to a children's hospital, or a steady presence in the hearts of fans for over thirty years, Bernie’s legacy is unmistakably woven into the fabric of the Philadelphia Flyers.