For decades, ice hockey was a sport defined by its northern roots—frozen ponds in Canada, small-town rinks in Minnesota, and the Original Six teams of the NHL clustered around colder climates. But over the past three decades, a surprising trend has emerged: the game is thriving in places where palm trees are more common than snowflakes. States like Florida, Arizona, and Texas—once considered unlikely homes for hockey—are now breeding grounds for NHL franchises, youth development, and even die-hard fanbases. So, how did the ice get so hot in the South?
The NHL Expansion Effect
The modern growth of hockey in the South began with the NHL’s aggressive expansion strategy in the 1990s. The league set its sights on untapped media markets and fast-growing cities that lacked winter sports. The arrival of teams like the Florida Panthers (1993), Tampa Bay Lightning (1992), Dallas Stars (relocated from Minnesota in 1993), and Phoenix Coyotes (now Arizona Coyotes, 1996) planted the seeds for a hockey culture in these “non-traditional” areas.
Critics initially scoffed at the idea of hockey in the heat, pointing to low attendance, unfamiliarity with the sport, and logistical challenges. But over time, teams embedded themselves into their communities through youth programs, local rinks, and fan engagement.
Success Breeds Passion
The tipping point for many of these markets came when the teams started winning. The Tampa Bay Lightning have become a powerhouse franchise, winning back-to-back Stanley Cups in 2020 and 2021 and consistently making deep playoff runs. Their success has translated into a rabid local fanbase and a sharp rise in youth hockey registrations across Florida.
In Texas, the Dallas Stars captured a Stanley Cup in 1999 and reached the finals again in 2020. The team has built a loyal following, with the state now boasting one of the largest USA Hockey youth memberships in the southern United States.
Even in Arizona—where the Coyotes have faced a rollercoaster of ownership changes, arena controversies, and relocation rumors—hockey has made a mark. The state produced Auston Matthews, the 2022 Hart Trophy winner and face of the Toronto Maple Leafs, showing that elite talent can emerge from the desert.
Youth and Grassroots Growth
Beyond the professional level, the expansion of youth and amateur hockey programs in these regions has been a key driver of the sport’s growth. USA Hockey reports a steady increase in player registrations in southern states, especially Florida and Texas. This growth is supported by NHL teams investing heavily in local rinks, learn-to-play programs, and outreach initiatives.
Tampa Bay, for instance, launched the Lightning Made program, which provides free gear and lessons to thousands of kids each year. The Dallas Stars operate the “Learn to Play” initiative and have partnered with schools and recreation centers across the state. These programs not only introduce the sport but help break down cost barriers that have historically made hockey less accessible.
Arizona’s hockey future has been buoyed by youth organizations like the Junior Coyotes and the Arizona Bobcats, both of which have produced NCAA and NHL-caliber players. Even as the Coyotes’ future remains uncertain, grassroots hockey is flourishing—highlighting how a community’s love for the game can outlast its professional franchise.
Culture Shift and Fan Identity
One of the most striking developments in these markets is the unique hockey culture that’s evolved. In Tampa Bay, you’ll find Lightning flags hanging alongside beach towels. In Dallas, fans chant “Stars!” during the national anthem with the same pride as a Cowboys touchdown. These regions have adopted hockey on their own terms, blending local identity with traditional hockey values.
Social media has also helped accelerate the sport’s visibility. Young fans can follow highlights, memes, and community discussions no matter where they live. This digital landscape has leveled the playing field, allowing southern teams to build online communities that rival the passion of older, established markets.
Many states across the country have introduced sports betting legislation in recent years, Relaxed sports betting laws in the U.S. have boosted ice hockey’s visibility and engagement nationwide. Legal wagering has driven more fan interest, increased TV viewership, and sparked broader media coverage. Betting markets give casual fans a reason to follow the NHL, helping the sport grow beyond its traditional strongholds.
Challenges Remain
Despite the progress, hockey in the South isn’t without challenges. Ice time and rink access remain limited compared to northern states. Climate and infrastructure make it harder—and more expensive – to maintain facilities. Moreover, long-term success often hinges on the performance and stability of the local NHL team. Struggling franchises, like the Coyotes, face skepticism and logistical hurdles that can undo years of community-building.
Yet, the continued presence of NHL teams and the rise of star players from non-traditional markets suggest a more permanent shift. Hockey isn’t just surviving in the South—it’s thriving.
The Future of Southern Hockey
The 2020s may mark the decade when non-traditional markets fully come of age. More players are being drafted from southern states, more fans are buying jerseys in places once unfamiliar with hockey, and new arenas are being built with youth development in mind. With population growth trending toward the Sun Belt and a new generation of fans raised in hockey households, the foundation for lasting growth is already in place.
As the sport continues to evolve, the lines between “traditional” and “non-traditional” markets are blurring. What started as a risky expansion strategy has become a legitimate success story—proof that hockey, like any sport, can thrive wherever passion, community, and investment come together.
