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In Tampa, Florida, anticipation was palpable as fans gathered in brisk weather for the Navy Federal NHL Stadium Series game on Sunday, marking a milestone event in the Sunshine State.
Enthusiastic Tampa Bay Lightning fans thronged the NHL pregame fan festival, their excitement undampened by the chill in the air.
“This is perfect hockey weather!” exclaimed a devoted fan. “The hockey gods are smiling on us and the Bolts today!”
The festival catered to all tastes, offering activities ranging from hockey games and live music to a variety of snacks, all while attendees braced against the cold. Despite the brisk winds, the spirit of pride and camaraderie burned brightly.
Sportsmanship took center stage as well, with Fred Medugno, a hockey referee originally from Boston, making the trip from his current home in Nokomis. He expressed his support for both teams, showcasing the unity and respect that define the sport.
“Tampa’s playing good, Boston playing good. So we’ll see what happens,” Medugno said.
Bruins fans Nick and Luca Maroni, a father-son duo, traveled from Athol, Massachusetts, to support their team.
Eleven-year-old Luca said his parents surprised him with the trip.
“We tried to make it a vacation, and they surprised me by writing the initials of the game on pancakes with chocolate chips,” Luca said. “I started shedding tears, so happy, it was… like ever since they released it, I just really wanted to go.”
The fan experience celebrated both teams, but the sea of blue and white was impossible to miss. Lightning supporters made sure everyone knew whose turf they were standing on.
The Lightning’s next game will be at home Tuesday at Benchmark International Arena at 7:30 p.m.