The sports world reacts to the passing of Ed Snider:

Plenty more after the jump.

Jeffrey Lurie said in a statement:

Ed was a true visionary and a pioneer who did tremendous things for our city and for the sport of hockey. He was driven by a relentless pursuit of winning and his passion for the sport was genuine. That’s one of the reasons I think he was so loved and respected by the fans of our city and by his players and staff. They knew he cared just as much as they did.

Under Ed’s guidance, the Flyers became one of the most consistently successful franchises in the NHL, and he used his leadership to help foster a classy organization across the board. But perhaps more than anything, I think the legacy that Ed will leave behind is his commitment to helping young people in our city succeed in life through his youth hockey foundation. Our thoughts are with his family and the entire Flyers organization during this difficult time.

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Bill Lyon on Snider’s reputation:

A writer from Toronto once told me: “You know what they say about him up here? They say if you’re caught in a poker game with him, make sure to get the seat with your back against the wall. And they mean that as a compliment.”

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NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman:

“Ed created the Flyers’ professional, no-nonsense culture, fostered their relentless will to win and set the highest standards for every activity on and off the ice, including such initiatives as the Ed Snider Youth Hockey Foundation and the Flyers Wives Carnival. While the loss of Ed Snider tears a hole in the heart of the Flyers and the city of Philadelphia, and leaves a massive void in the city’s sports landscape, it also challenges all who knew him to carry forward the great works that are his legacy.

On a personal note, I have valued Ed’s counsel, I have admired his philanthropy and truly have cherished his friendship. Ed was an unmistakable presence and an unforgettable personality. Like most people who had the pleasure of knowing Ed, I will miss him terribly.”

Josh Harris on Snider’s passing:

“It is with a great deal of sadness that we mourn the loss of one of Philadelphia’s greatest ambassadors and humanitarians, Ed Snider.

Ed continually poured his heart into making a difference in the lives of those around him and he stopped at nothing to make the city of Philadelphia a better place for everyone. He leaves behind a legacy of civic pride, charitable acts and philanthropy that is truly unmatched.

Ed’s impact on the sporting landscape needs no words. His vision, drive and relentless pursuit of excellence brought multiple championships – as well as appearances in the Stanley Cup Finals and NBA Finals – to the city and its fans.

On behalf of the Sixers and Devils, we send our thoughts and prayers to the entire Snider family during this difficult time.”

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