The San Jose Sharks’ mascot, S.J Sharkie, has been named the NHL’s Mascot of the Year, dethroning two-time winner Gritty of the Philadelphia Flyers. Sharkie was previously inducted into the Mascot Hall of Fame earlier this summer. With two major honors being bestowed upon him, it has been a summer for the Bay Area’s favorite carnivorous fish. Sharkie has become synonymous with the SAP Center over the past three decades as a central part of the in-game entertainment. Over the years, he’s had a few iconic moments, including when he got stuck in the rafters before a game against the Detroit Red Wings, or when he knocked out a dancing Gritty in an homage to Rocky Balboa a few seasons ago. Whether he’s creating antics at the rink, or finding a way to stir up trouble on social media, S.J. Sharkie is a key part of the San Jose Sharks experience. As a result, he’s certainly earned the right to be named the NHL’s Mascot of the Year. As we approach opening night at the SAP Center, it will certainly be fun to see what type of mischief Sharkie is able to pull off this season as he looks to keep his title next offseason.
