tampa Bay Lightning Prepare for Historic Outdoor hockey Game Amidst Unprecedented Cold
Tampa Bay,FL – The Tampa Bay Lightning are gearing up for a unique and challenging outdoor hockey game,facing unusually cold temperatures for the Florida region. Head coach Jon Cooper expressed his surprise at the conditions, noting that in his 13 years with the team, he’s never anticipated such a notable cold snap. The game promises a return to the roots of the sport for many players and fans alike.
“It’s really crazy,” Cooper stated, recalling a previous outdoor game in Nashville in February 2022. “A year ago, it was around 27 degrees here in florida, as I recall. But this is different – it’s going to be colder than anything we’ve seen.”
For players like Cooper, who hails from Prince George, British Columbia, Canada, the cold is a familiar element of the game. He views the outdoor setting as a nostalgic experience, reminiscent of playing on frozen ponds. “Many here have never experienced hockey like this,” Cooper explained. “But I’m happy for them. This is how we’ve experienced hockey throughout our lives – outdoors, in the dark, on frozen ponds – and that’s what we’re going to do again now.”
Veteran defenseman Ryan McDonagh, 36, brings a wealth of experience to the ice, having participated in and won all five of his previous outdoor games. He sees this game as a welcome change of pace. “It’s a nice break from the series lull,” McDonagh said. “Especially when you have family and friends there,and the fans get a kick out of it. It’s really something you soak in. It’s not every day you get an prospect to do something like this.”
The preparations for the game haven’t been without their challenges. Concerns were initially raised regarding a protective tent erected over the ice, but it ultimately proved beneficial, shielding the rink from Friday’s rainfall and the anticipated harsh weather conditions.
The upcoming game is poised to be a memorable event, offering a unique hockey experience for both players and fans in an unconventional Florida setting.