Both groups are currently appreciating an upswing in popularity as followers continue to support the recognized fan preferred players on either group(Tampa florida: Martin St. Louis, Vincent Lecavalier, Florida: Bryan McCabe, Steven Weiss )as well as the more recent enhancements(Tampa bay: Steven Stamkos, Florida: David Cubicle )that have actually helped to re-energize both groups and also their fans. The Florida Panthers belonged to a growth to the NHL in theearly 90’s. Wayne Huizenga, after that owner of the Blockbuster Video franchise business, was awarded an NHL franchise business in December of 1992. The Esposito siblings wound up efficiently outmaneuvering their opponents and also the Tampa bay Bay Lightning were presented to the organization on October 7, 1992. During their early days, the club was partly possessed by New York Yankees proprietor George Steinbrenner. The team made headings during the exhibition season when goalie Manon Rheaume became the very first woman to play in an NHL video game, making the first of two NHL looks versus the St. Louis Blues. Years of financial and also administration issues would adhere to, lastly lifting in the 2003-2004 season when they progressed to the Stanley Mug finals and won, beating the Calgary Blazes in a tight seven game series. Presently, both teams are appreciating a surge in popularity as a result of improved play and an ever expanding followerbase. Without a doubt, the sport of hockey and the NHL’s presence in Florida are here to remain.