“Mr. Firebird” Takes Coachella Valley Fan Passion to the Super Bowl

A familiar face at Coachella Valley Firebirds games has become a symbol of fan passion in the desert, and this week, his story connects directly to the Super Bowl.

Kyle Garman, better known to fans as “Mr. Firebird,” is known for his iconic suit, sunglasses, and nonstop energy at Firebirds home games at Acrisure Arena. A Seattle native, Garman brought his love for sports with him when he moved to the Coachella Valley.

When he learned the Firebirds were the Seattle Kraken’s affiliate team, he knew he had found a new home for his fandom. As a lifelong Seahawks supporter and proud member of the “12th Man,” Garman made it his mission to bring that same passion to the desert.

“I decided I was going to bring the 12th Man energy to the Firebirds,” he said. “Be loud, have fun, and enjoy it like I was still in Seattle.”

Now, with the Seahawks headed to the Super Bowl in Santa Clara, Garman says he wouldn’t miss the moment for anything. After their big win, he packed up and hit the road, determined to be part of the excitement, even if it meant watching from outside the stadium.

"I just need a backpack, a full tank of gas, and some snacks," he said. "I’ll be there taking pictures and enjoying it all."

Garman’s story highlights how sports fandom can connect communities, even hundreds of miles from where it began.

Meanwhile, the NBC Palm Springs sports team is heading to the Bay Area to bring viewers behind-the-scenes coverage leading up to kickoff. Fans are encouraged to follow NBC Palm Springs on Instagram for exclusive Super Bowl content.