Panthers Fans,

As you are undoubtedly aware, we have decided to make a change behind the bench for your Florida Panthers with Peter Horachek becoming the team’s new interim head coach, replacing Kevin Dineen.

Peter brings years of NHL experience and, more importantly, the right character and drive to lead our team.

We thank Kevin and his family for their passion, sacrifice and dedication to this franchise, but at this time we felt a change in direction was absolutely necessary. 
 


Our goals are simple: to win and to build a team that our fans can be proud of. After 16 games it is clear that we have not lived up to those expectations.
 


We must all be accountable for the results thus far – from ownership to coaches to players – and we felt strongly that a coaching change was necessary for this team to reach it’s potential.

Now it’s time to look forward. Joining Coach Horachek’s staff will be Stanley Cup-winner John Madden and original Panthers Captain Brian Skrudland. They have been tasked with reinvigorating this team with passion, energy and leadership – the elements of success. 


With 66 games remaining this season our expectations remain the same. We expect a team that plays hard, that sacrifices for each other, that gives everything they have for our fans and supporters, and a team that wins hockey games.


By the end of this season we expect to be competing for a place in the Stanley Cup Playoffs and we expect to have taken a significant step toward achieving the goals and objectives we have set for this franchise. 


That is what our fans want, that is what they deserve, and we will not rest until we deliver on those expectations.

Thank you for your loyalty and passion to the Florida Panthers franchise, and I look forward to seeing you soon. 


Best Regards,

Vinnie Viola


Florida Panthers Owner