Inaugural Phantoms Game

Rochester Americans v Philadelphia Phantoms, October 6, 1996

The Spectrum, Section B, Row 19

The Phantoms played their first ever home game at the Spectrum on October 6, 1996 against the defending Calder Cup Champion Rochester Americans, winning the game 3-1. When the Flyers moved into the Big House across the parking lot, the Spectrum needed a tenant. The Flyers moved their AHL affiliate from Hershey to Philadelphia.

The Phantoms became an instant success led by Vaclav Prospal and Frank The Animal Bialowas.

The Phantoms began playing in the Wachovia Spectrum in 1996, and have spent their entire 12 years at the Spectrum. After the Wachovia Area was built, the Philadelphia Flyers moved their minor league affiliate from Hershey to Philadelphia.

The Phantoms have enjoyed a lot of success at the Spectrum. They won their first division title during their inaugural season in 1996-97. The Phantoms also captured division titles in 1997-98, 1998-99, and 2004-04. They are on pace to capture their fifth division title this season.

In addition to their four division titles, the Phantoms have won two Calder Cup Championships. In 1998, the Phantoms defeated the Saint John Flames for their first Calder Cup, and brought the Cup back to Philadelphia in 2005 while sweeping the Chicago Wolves.

In 12 years of play in South Philadelphia, the Phantoms have only suffered two losing seasons, and have missed the playoffs only three times.