Panthers invite public to try out for goalie

Roberto Luongo and Al Montoya both got injured in the Panthers' game against the Leafs, so goalie coach Robb Tallas put on the pads and prepared to play. Roberto Luongo eventually came back in to relieve Montoya.

SUNRISE, Fla. — The Florida Panthers are holding goalie auditions for anyone who wants to play.

No, really.

The Panthers announced Thursday plans for a contest that will give someone a amateur try-out contract and the chance to be Florida’s backup practice goalie — for one day.

Earlier this week, the Panthers considered putting a forward or an assistant coach in goal after regular netminders Roberto Luongo and Al Montoya were both injured in the same game.

Panthers executive chairman Peter Luukko says the team expects "a great turnout for this ultimate fan experience." Successful applicants will be invited to a tryout on March 16, two finalists will then go head-to-head during an intermission of Florida’s game against Montreal on March 17, and the winner gets a contract.

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