Q&A With Flyers Legend Bernie Parent

Passion, winning championships, and caring about the people in the Delaware Valley. Ed Snider is a man with a vision who loves this city and his players. 
 
-You were the first in a long line of outstanding goaltenders in Philly. Who followed you who impressed you the most and why?

Pelle Lindbergh and Ron Hextall, and we had many other great moments in goaltending. But since Hextall, we haven’t been able to get that long-term fit.  Ron played the game hard and again, he was passionate about the game and his teammates.      
 
– Did you ever have an interest in the front office like some of your former teammates?

Of course the Flyers have always been my love, but I wanted to explore what else was out there for me, as well. When I reflect back, I was a performer. My relationship with the Flyers as an ambassador is more embracing to me than a front office job. It accommodates my lifestyle better than front office, which tends to be very demanding. I like what I am doing now with public speaking, working with the Homeless of Philadelphia and writing a few books, my most recent being Unmasked.  I love to engage the hockey fans and with social media and the internet it makes it real easy.  So like my official facebook fan page, follow me on twitter @bernieparent, and check out my blog at www.bernieparent.net            .
 
– What would you change about the game today?

A lot of good things have been changed, but number one, there’s a crease to protect the goalie, but I see so many goals scored after the initial save is made. They have five, six players poking at the puck inside of the crease. The crease belongs to the goalie. Respect it and stay out of it. 
 
– The NHL is going back and forth about the Sochi Olympics. Do you ever miss not getting the chance to represent Canada in the Olympics as a professional?

Of course. I’ve never had the chance. The last time there was an opportunity, it was 1972, but I was playing for the World Hockey League then so I couldn’t participate. It is something I am missing from my career.
 
– The NHL is obviously going through another lockout. Any thoughts on what you think would break the stalemate?

Yea. Read my new book, Unmasked, and passion for the game will be restored. In all honesty though, I don’t know. I’m not involved in that negotiation process. I’m not informed, so I cannot comment on something I am not truly informed about. Although, I do miss the game.