Lightning Foundation's $100,000 Grant Transforms Sprowls Horizon Sports Park in Pinellas Park
The Tampa Bay Lightning's outdoor hockey rink at Sprowls Horizon Sports Park in Pinellas Park is undergoing significant upgrades thanks to a $100,000 grant from the Lightning Foundation. The complex, previously known as Youth Park, is scheduled to open in February 2026 and will include a hockey rink, six turf diamonds, six batting cages, a multipurpose field, and a playground. The Lightning's investment in the Pinellas Park community continues with this project, building on their previous support for the rink at Youth Park in 2019.
The decision to enhance the rink with new flooring, benches, and a scorebox was driven by the Lightning's commitment to promoting hockey in the Pinellas County area. The organization aims to provide young kids with the opportunity to learn and play hockey in their local community, as well as cater to adult players. By partnering with the City of Pinellas Park on the Sprowls Horizon Sports Park project, the Lightning will help establish consistent programming at the facility.
The redevelopment of the complex reflects Pinellas Park's vision of creating a top-notch athletic facility for residents of all ages. The new turf diamonds are modeled after Major League Baseball spring training fields, adding a unique touch to the facility. The partnership between Pinellas Park and the Lightning is seen as a significant investment in the community, with City Manager Bart Diebold expressing hope that the rink will inspire kids to dream big and envision themselves as future hockey stars.
Construction at the Sprowls Horizon Sports Park facility began in December 2024, and the re-opening of the hockey rink with its upgrades is eagerly anticipated. The Lightning's involvement in the project underscores their dedication to promoting hockey and providing recreational opportunities for the Pinellas Park community. The revamped facility is poised to become a hub for sports and recreation, offering a range of amenities for residents to enjoy.