Lightning to host women's college hockey matchup at Amalie Arena

The Tampa Bay Lightning will host a women’s college hockey exhibition game between the University of Tampa and the University of Florida on January 24th at Amalie Arena.

Women's hockey is on the rise with the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) breaking attendance records across the board. A crowd of 21,105 packed Montreal's Bell Centre in April 2024, making it the largest ever for a women's hockey game worldwide.

The Lightning currently offer Girls Only programming as part of their "Lightning Development Program" for girls of all ages and skill levels. The program includes Ball Hockey, Learn to Skate, Learn to Play 101, Learn to Play 201, and two Rec Leagues (7-9 and 10-13).

The University of Tampa and University of Florida teams are both members of College Hockey South, a 30-school, 50-team intercollegiate hockey conference spanning eight southeastern U.S. states that competes in AAU College Hockey. College Hockey South is a 501(c)3 not for profit organization.

"Watching the growth of women's hockey in the south has been nothing short of exhilarating,” College Hockey South Commissioner, Kyle Knell said.

"It's a testament to the passion and dedication of the players, fans, and communities alike. For these teams to have the opportunity to play in AMALIE Arena, a venue that has hosted some of the biggest moments in the sport, is a rare and special privilege. It’s not just a game—it’s a historic moment in the making for women’s hockey."

Admission is free. Fans can enter the building through the Ashley VIP gate located on Ford Thunder Alley. Puck drop is at 7pm EST.