Steven Stamkos recently bid an emotional farewell to the Tampa Bay community in a heartfelt article published on The Players’ Tribune. In this article, Stamkos recounted his journey from being the No. 1 draft pick to becoming the team captain and winning two Stanley Cup championships during his 16-year tenure with the Tampa Bay Lightning. Stamkos expressed his gratitude towards the city, the team, and the fan base that supported him throughout his career. He wrote about the difficulty of saying goodbye to a place that had become his home and the only NHL team he had ever known.
At the age of 34, Stamkos made the decision to sign a four-year, $32 million contract with the Nashville Predators in free agency. This move came after Stamkos and Lightning officials were unable to come to terms on a new contract, leading to his departure from Tampa Bay. In his article, Stamkos acknowledged the surreal feeling of not being a part of the Lightning organization anymore, despite spending the majority of his career there. He admitted to feeling lucky for the 16 years he had spent with the team and the city.
The Early Days in Tampa Bay
Reflecting on his first day in Tampa, Stamkos shared his nervousness and excitement as an 18-year-old kid from Ontario who was drafted as the No. 1 overall pick in 2008. He vividly recalled walking into the rink for a press conference and being overwhelmed by the warm welcome he received from hundreds of employees lining the hall and applauding as he walked by. This moment of connection with the organization and the city stuck with Stamkos throughout his entire career and made him feel like he belonged in Tampa Bay.
Stamkos highlighted the special bond between the Lightning and the city of Tampa, especially during the team’s back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 2019-20 and 2020-21. He described the atmosphere in the city during those years as unforgettable, with the Bucs and the Rays also experiencing success, earning the nickname “Champa Bay.” The boat parades, the celebrations, and the overwhelming support from the fans made Stamkos realize the impact of his time in Tampa Bay.
Despite the bittersweet emotions surrounding his departure, Stamkos expressed gratitude for the memories and experiences he gained during his time in Tampa. Playing over 1,000 games and amassing more than 1,100 points for the Lightning, Stamkos leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and success. He acknowledged the heartbreaking nature of leaving the place where his three children were born and where countless memories were made with his family.
Steven Stamkos’ farewell to Tampa Bay marks the end of an era for both the player and the team. As he embarks on a new chapter with the Nashville Predators, Stamkos will carry with him the lessons, the successes, and the connections he forged during his time in Tampa. The emotional journey of saying goodbye to a place that became his second home serves as a reminder of the impact that sports can have on the lives of athletes and fans alike.