The Tampa Warriors Hockey Program announced their selection as one of only four veteran-based hockey teams selected from a nationwide search to play in the NHL’s Winter Classic Veteran’s Showcase at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado on February 15th & 16th. “Our selection is a testament to how hard we’ve been working to improve our program and demonstrate our commitment to our three communities: Veterans, Hockey & Tampa Bay” states Ryan Patrick, Executive Director.
The Tampa Warriors Hockey Program is a branch of the USA Warriors Ice Hockey Program, established on November 29, 2017. The USA Warriors Ice Hockey Program, a 501(c)(3), has been organized to operate exclusively for charitable and educational purposes, for those wounded in defense of the United States. The Program’s mission is to organize and administer an ice hockey program that provides a recreational, therapeutic experience and education. “The Tampa Warriors are focused on providing an avenue for veterans to fulfill the sense of purpose, selflessness, and community that was once felt in service to our nation,” says Joshua Schichtl, General Manager.
The program educates, trains, motivates, and encourages the formation of “USA Warrior Hockey Programs” locally and nationally while encouraging individuals who have physical disabilities incurred during service to the United States to participate in the sport of ice hockey in an environment that is adapted to the level of their ability. “We proudly represent all five branches of the U.S. military with hockey experience varying from former professional players to beginners. Our mission is about helping each other and our communities – hockey is our backdrop” adds Patrick.
The National Hockey League and Colorado Avalanche® are bringing outdoor hockey back to Colorado in the 2020 NHL Stadium Series™. The ultimate celebration of hockey returns to the Rocky Mountains for the second NHL Stadium Series game hosted by a U.S. service academy, following the 2018 NHL Stadium Series™ at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis. For more information on the Tampa Warriors or donate, please go to www.tampawarriors.com