Boy who was inspiration for Flyers Carter Hart's jersey number meets idol

PHILADELPHIA (FOX 29) - It's been an unforgettable couple of days for a devoted Carter Hart fan. 8-year-old Connor Parkkila met the Flyer's goalie after Saturday night's game at the Wells Fargo Center and even got a signed jersey. Hart's uniform is a tribute to their friendship.

"Both of them just had big smiles on their faces--gave each other a big hug. That's just amazing. It's one in a million,"Connor's dad, Will Parkkila, said.

At another game Tuesday night, Connor, who is on the autism spectrum, continuted to get the royal treatment.

The two actually go way back. Connor's been captivated by the star goalie since his junior hockey days with the WHL's Everett Silvertips in Washington State. Connor and his family are from Washington State.

The 20-year-old kept the number 79, which he got at the Flyers Developmental Camp in 2016 after being drafted because Connor had a Flyers jersey specially made with the number 79 and Hart's name on the back. Connor's parents say Hart made a promise back then and honored it.

There is a special bond for sure. Connor communicates with Hart via his dad's Instagram account throughout the season.

Connor is happy to show off his number 79 jersey now signed by the one and only. The jersey says, 'Love ya buddy, Carter Hart'.