Uwishunu.com

(Clockwise from bottom left) The Spectrum, the iconic home of the 76ers; the Phillies celebrate their 2008 World Series victory; and The Legendary Blue Horizon. (Photos courtesy of the Philadelphia 76ers, by R. Kennedy and by G. Widman)

It’s no secret that, for some many most Philadelphians, the city’s sports teams are a legitimate reason to get up in the morning. It’s a testament to our loyalty that 25+ trophy-less years didn’t get us down too much — but now that teams like the Phillies are serious title contenders, our “We’re #1!” foam fingers are raised higher than ever. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Dear Philly Sports Fan,

You guys are everywhere. Here are some grand-slam stats to throw out at the game.

1.   Sports fans can always find a big game in Philadelphia, home to eight professional sports teams: Philadelphia Flyers (NHL), Philadelphia Eagles (NFL), Philadelphia 76ers (NBA), Philadelphia Phillies (MLB), Philadelphia Union (Major League Soccer), Philadelphia Independence (Women’s Professional Soccer), Philadelphia KIXX (Major Indoor Soccer League) and Philadelphia Wings (National Lacrosse League).

2.   Philadelphia’s newest soccer teams, the Philadelphia Union and the Philadelphia Independence, kick off their first seasons in 2010 at the 18,500-seat Chester Stadium located along the Delaware River.

3. The Philadelphia Phillies won the World Series in 1980 and again in 2008.

4.   For three years in a row (2006-2008), PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) ranked Citizens Bank Park number one on its “Top 10 Vegetarian-Friendly Ballparks” list.

5.   Philadelphia’s Penn Relays is the oldest and largest amateur field relay.

(Clockwise from bottom left) The Flyers' Danny Briere; Citizens Bank Park; and soccer fans, excited for the debut of the Philadelphia Union. (Photos courtesy of the Philadelphia Flyers, by G. Widman and courtesy of Major League Soccer)

6.   On March 2, 1962, legendary Sixer Wilt Chamberlain scored 100 points in a single basketball game, an all-time record that nobody has been able to touch.

7.   The Ring magazine called The Legendary Blue Horizon boxing hall the best boxing venue in the world.

8.   In 2008, football fans from all over voted Philadelphia number one in FOX Sports’ poll of “NFL’s Top 10 Fan Bases.”

9.   The Philadelphia Flyers played an exhibition game against Moscow’s legendary Red Army club on January 11, 1976. The Flyers controlled virtually every facet of the game and won 4-1, proving that they were the best team in the world.

10.   Forbes named the furry green Phillie Phanatic America’s top sports mascot in 2008. (Maybe it was good luck!)

This Thanksgiving, We’re Thankful For… [uwishunu]

The Official Philly Brag Book [gophila.com]