Notes to John Tortorella’s first press conference as Head Coach of the Flyers “The Culture needs to change”

The Philadelphia Flyers have hired a former Stanley Cup winning Head Coach John Tortorella to a four year deal, worth $16 million. He won a Cup with the Tampa Bay Lightning back in the 2003-04 season. Tortorella is known to be a hard-nosed coach, who commands the most from his players. He is not afraid of benching or calling out star studded players either. For his efforts, he is the second most winningest American born coach in NHL history.

Finally, he was introduced to the media, proud faithful, and the City of Philadelphia for the first time as Head Coach of the Flyers. Here are the notes to his presser:

1. John Tortorella: “I felt comfortable from the get go with Chuck. I just received such great information on what a great guy he is.”
2. John Tortorella on why he chose Philly: “First let’s talk about the emblem, the passion of the city.”
3. John Tortorella really speaks highly of Chuck Fletcher, “I couldn’t be more excited about being a part of the Philadelphia Flyers.”
4. Chuck Fletcher says John Tortorella is the right candidate/hire of the Flyers
5. John Tortorella: “I’ve been out here with horses and dogs, and shoveling shit.”
6. John Tortorella: “Chuck was fantastic with allowing me to ask questions.”
7. John Tortorella: “The culture needs to change.”
8. Wow John Tortorella has been hired for less than 24 hours, and realizes the culture of the Flyers has to change.
9. “I’m anxious to work with Kevin, he’s one I want to talk to right away. He’s a huge piece to this organization.” – John Tortorella
10. John Tortorella tells Dan Gelston, “That’s what you guys talk about (Media).” And so it begins, I love it
11. John Tortorella says this will be a very tough camp. Says there will be a lot of skating.
12. John Tortorella speaks very highly of Cam Atkinson, and said he even sat him out a few games. Said he’s grown so much, and they have a great relationship.
13. John Tortorella wants help with the Power Play. Appears this will be the first order of priority. He mentions him and Chuck talked about this.
14. John Tortorella wants to see these players in practice, and then make decisions on players, “I need to see it.”
15. John Tortorella says he will not make any predictions for next season.
16. John Tortorella is preaching play away from the puck. Really speaking with passion, “We will grow some skin.”
17. John Tortorella: “I think we need to give Carter more support. He’s 23, 23.”
18. John Tortorella: “I teach structure, being who you want to be, a tough team to play against. You can coin me anyway you want. Just show me, show your teammates you want to do stuff away from the offensive side of the puck. I think it starts with your top guys.”