The Pittsburgh Penguins spewed online backlash on Wednesday after a social media employee’s photoshopped face mask on fans in a photo taken during the team’s first home game in front of spectators since last March.
“We just had to say it again … Thanks for the continued support, Penguins fan,” The team’s official Twitter account was posted Along with an image, all fans are shown covering the face. “We can’t wait to see you tomorrow night.”
The ice hockey team won 5–2 on the Philadelphia Flyers en route at PPG Paints Arena the night before. Just 2,800 people were allowed to watch the action and a zero-tolerance mask policy was in place. It was the Penguins’ first home game in front of fans since March 2, 2020, According to the pittsburgh post-gazette.
But some eagle-eyed Twitter users noticed that something was wrong. In the original Getty photo, an unnamed female fan appears in the top-right corner, while two others did not cover their faces properly.
One critic quickly called out the image for what seemed to be a “terrible BS” from the team.
“Either the rules apply or not, but don’t lie to us,” the tweet read. “Poor jobs pen
Another critic admitted that given the “growing pains” with the masked policy, it was expected to be the first home game with an audience – but still the team should “do better”.
Meanwhile, another man joked that the team’s account was operated by “real penguins”.
“Photoshop is tricky with no fingers,” the answer read.
In a statement to The Post Thursday, the team admitted that a social media employee had sent a “changed” photo and has since been reprimanded.
“We are excited to bring our fans back to PPG Paints Arena,” the statement said, and following the advice of medical professionals, we are taking all precautions to use masks to keep our fans safe. ” “We have adopted a zero-tolerance policy, and our arena staff have the rowing team to implement teams during the home game.”
The team said “probably well-intentioned” employees, however, should not have manipulated the photos of a wider crowd of “some fans” who were not following the rules.
“Our social media team should never send photos to our fan base,” the statement said. “This is a violation of our social media and security policy, and this employee has been disciplined.”
The Pittsburgh Post-Carrot reported that Tom Wolf was allowed by the government to increase capacity at indoor locations to 15 percent.
“We are grateful for the loyalty that our fans showed during this difficult time,” said Penguins coach Mike Sullivan.
“We feel like we have the most loyal fans of the game. These people have been so supportive of our players over the years. I know the players are appreciating it. “
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