Quote:
Originally Posted by Erick Estrada
The Lightning are almost as popular as the Bucs in Tampa and much more popular than the Rays. They have a solid fan base for an American team.
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I disagree with you there, but respect that it's opinion not really scientific. Mentioned in another thread that I spent a decent amount of time in that area... I agree that they have a good core of loyal fans compared to most places with no grassroots hockey but I dont think a anyone cares outside their core group. Realistically that makes sense though, nobody grows up playing the game at all there.
There's a house by us with a lightning flag that stands out but beyond that but I never see people in lightning stuff at the mall or anything away from games. Probably most common sighting is once in a while see that car window sticker I think the st holder's get around town or a sign in a bar here and there. 10x as many yanks fans around town when spring training is on. Maybe it's different in the playoffs as am usually there mid-season.
No argument that the Rays can't draw flies. Honestly wonder even if that Ybor stadium got built if it would have helped a ton seeing what's gone on with the marlins. Florida is a weird state for sports