Nobody knew what to think when the Philadelphia Flyers unveiled their new mascot to the world.

Gritty’s googly eyes, long orange hair, and bulbous belly made fans across the United States and Canada skeptical of the Flyers’ marketing direction. Many wondered what the organization was thinking creating a mascot that is, to put it lightly, horrifying to its younger fans.

Thanks to the Central Pennsylvania Creative Professionals, you can find out what the Flyers were thinking straight from Gritty’s creator.

Brian Allen, a designer at Flyland Designs in Bellefonte, will discuss the origins of the NHL’s newest phenomenon from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, November 6 at the Days Inn on South Pugh Street.

Tickets are free to Creative Professionals members and $20 for non-members. You can purchase yours online.

Gritty has taken the hockey world by storm since making his debut at the start of the season. Fans have been captivated by his adventures at the Wells Fargo Center, which have included rappelling from the rafters on opening night, throwing body checks during intermission goalie races, getting to know rival fans, and even taking a spill or two of his own.

He may have captivated an entire sport’s fanbase with his antics in Philadelphia, but Gritty will never be Pennsylvania’s best mascot thanks to a certain Symbol Of Our Best.