Three years ago, the Tampa Y partnered with the Tampa Bay Lightning and Chase to grow the game of hockey in Tampa Bay. From learning how to play ball hockey to trying their hand at ice hockey inside the Amalie Arena, Y afterschoolers and youth members have benefited greatly from the community hockey program. More recently, Northwest Hillsborough Family YMCA afterschoolers got invited to the grand opening of the new Lightning Made Training Center. The facility will now serve as the epicenter of the Lightning's community hockey activity in the Tampa Bay Area. After a press conference, nearly 40 Y kids played ball hockey with USA Hockey certified coaches and NHL veterans. They also participated in fun outdoor games with the team’s mascot, ThunderBug, before enjoying free food and Lightning swag.The Lightning will continue to host free street hockey clinics at family Ys, giving community kids the opportunity to learn the rules of hockey, teamwork and sportsmanship.Many thanks to the Tampa Bay Lightning and Chase for including the Y in their efforts to grow a new fan base and several rising hockey stars!
