Thunder Bolt Report⚡

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About Steven Sewell

Originally from the New York City metro area, I moved to Tampa FL in 2010 to attend the University of South Florida. While living in Tampa, I went to my first ever live NHL game, a playoff game featuring the Tampa Bay Lightning against the Washington Capitals in May 2011. As just a 17-year-old kid, I was captivated by the playoff atmosphere and the athletic performance of the Lightning players. Despite being a small-market team compared to the major media market of New York I grew up around, I was drawn to the organization’s on-ice product and commitment to the fan experience. Over the following years I watched as the team’s owner Jeff Vinik invested to transform the arena, installing padded seats and an enormous scoreboard in the area. I became a season ticket holder and enjoyed going to watch the live games to see superstars like Vincent Lecavalier, Marty St. Louis, Steven Stamkos, and Victor Hedman.

Over the years as my life progressed, I continued to follow this team through the ups and downs, the playoff victories and early exits, players leaving and players coming into the organization. Through a season being abruptly stopped through a global shutdown, and the ultimate triumph that ensued.

I’ve now followed this team for 12 years, since the first game I went to in May 2011. I’ve been able to see what a successful sports organization looks like, from the owner and head coach to the players and even the arena and fan experience. Following the career progressions of many of the players, from the times they were drafted and from playing in the American League, to their first NHL call ups, to some becoming hall of famers, head coaches, and champions has been one of the most rewarding parts of being a Lightning fan.