By Emily Pesquera
The Tampa Bay Lightning released the highly anticipated “Legacy” jersey on Feb. 15th during a home game against the Colorado Avalanche. The jersey pays honor to the Lightning’s history, and it combines history with modern elements.
The jersey is called a “throwback sweater,” combining the team’s colors and stripes. Those stripes are referred to as “victory stripes,” which were a part of the team’s original uniforms in October 1992. The “victory stripes” were initially placed under a player’s arm so fans could only see them when they celebrate, but today, they go down the arms. Having the Tampa Bay Lightning logo in the center on a black lace-up collar jersey combines the then and now feel for fans.
“We worked hard to develop a jersey representing the fans and our brand while celebrating our franchise’s history and growth within the NHL,” said Lightning chief venue office Kevin Preast, according to WTSP, 10 Tampa Bay.
This is the Lightning’s third jersey; the team will rotate out jerseys for the season. The third jersey is expected to appear on the ice six more times this season, and the Lightning will continue to wear it for the next two seasons.
“I personally like the new Lightning Jerseys. I think it contrasts the other two options well, which is great when they’ve played multiple games in a row,” said Lexie Baker, a senior at the University of Tampa. “I think they will grow in popularity as the team wears them more often. The features with the dates of the Stanley Cup win and other cool features will also help boost popularity, as it’s a fun way to look back at Lightning history without ever really having to look for it! “
The team won the opening night of the jersey reveal from the new jersey release. However, they have been on a three-game losing streak.
Tampa Bay fell to the Florida Panthers 9-2, their 11th straight road win. The Lightning lost 4-2 to the Ottawa Senators and 5–3 to the Washington Capitals to end their homestand.
The Lightning head up north to face the Islanders on Saturday, Feb. 23rd. Currently falling to fifth in the Atlantic Division, the team has been facing challenges. While playing the New York Rangers on Feb. 7, Mikhail Sergachev faced an injury, leading him to be stretchered off the ice. A broken tibia and fibula needed surgery to stabilize his leg; at this time, there is no timeline for his return to the ice, leaving the Lightning down one of their starting players.
Besides injuries for the team, the Lightning lost one of their biggest fans, 10-year-old Mason Fox, who was honored at many Lightning games and passed away due to his months-long battle with leukemia. He was an avid hockey player and was part of the ceremonial puck drop for “Hockey Beats Cancer” night.
The Lightning faced challenges and celebrations this season, and with a good amount of the season remaining, fans are looking forward to seeing what the team can do.
“I’m a huge hockey fan, but seeing the pre-game, being in Thunder Alley with all of the fans, and being in the arena is unreal,” said Liz Kelly, senior at UT. “It’s how I’d imagine being at a Stanley Cup final would be with all the loyal fans and the anticipation that builds until the end of the 3rd period.”
Hockey and the environment Tampa Bay Lightning creates make these fans dedicated, involved, and supportive.
If you want to see the third jersey on the ice this season, attend the game on March 2 or follow the Lightning third jersey schedule.