Central West Florida, encompassing the counties of Citrus, Hernando, Pasco, Hillsborough, Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, and DeSoto, is a vibrant hub for sports enthusiasts. The region boasts a rich tapestry of professional, minor league, and collegiate teams across various sports disciplines.
Central West Florida (Tampa Bay Area, Sarasota, Clearwater) Sports Scene
The Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL), Buccaneers (NFL), and Rays (MLB) make this one of Florida’s strongest pro sports regions.
Popular Sports: Hockey, Baseball, Sailing, Rowing
- Hockey has surged in popularity, with the Tampa Bay Lightning creating a strong fan base and youth hockey programs.
- Baseball is huge due to MLB spring training (Yankees, Phillies, Blue Jays, Pirates) and strong high school teams.
- Sailing, rowing, and water sports are popular in the bay, while Sarasota has become an international rowing destination.
Professional Sports Teams
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Located in Tampa (Hillsborough County), the Buccaneers are a prominent NFL team with a storied history, including multiple Super Bowl victories. They host their home games at Raymond James Stadium, a landmark venue in the region.
Tampa Bay Rays
This Major League Baseball team calls St. Petersburg (Pinellas County) home. The Rays have consistently showcased competitive performances in the American League, drawing fans to Tropicana Field.
Tampa Bay Lightning
Representing the NHL, the Lightning have established themselves as a dominant force in professional hockey, securing multiple Stanley Cup championships. Their home games are held at the Amalie Arena in Tampa.
Minor League and Developmental Teams
Minor League Baseball
The region is a hotbed for minor league baseball, offering fans a chance to witness emerging talents. Notable teams include:
Clearwater Threshers
Affiliated with the Philadelphia Phillies, they play at BayCare Ballpark in Clearwater.
Bradenton Marauders
The Pittsburgh Pirates’ affiliate, hosting games at LECOM Park in Bradenton.
Dunedin Blue Jays
Affiliated with the Toronto Blue Jays, they play at TD Ballpark in Dunedin.
Florida Complex League (FCL)
This rookie-level league features teams like the FCL Phillies West, based in Clearwater. These games provide a glimpse into the future stars of Major League Baseball.
Collegiate Athletics
University of South Florida (USF) Bulls
Located in Tampa, USF offers a comprehensive athletics program competing in the American Athletic Conference. The Bulls’ football team plays at Raymond James Stadium, while other sports utilize on-campus facilities.
Eckerd College Tritons
Located in St. Petersburg, Eckerd College competes in NCAA Division II, offering sports like basketball, soccer, and baseball.
Saint Leo University Lions
Based in Pasco County, Saint Leo fields competitive teams in various sports within the Sunshine State Conference.
Spring Training and Notable Events
Grapefruit League
Central West Florida is a pivotal region for Major League Baseball’s spring training. Teams such as the New York Yankees (Steinbrenner Field in Tampa), Philadelphia Phillies (BayCare Ballpark in Clearwater), and Toronto Blue Jays (TD Ballpark in Dunedin) prepare for the season here, offering fans an up-close experience with their favorite players.
Tampa Bay Rowdies
A professional soccer team competing in the USL Championship, the Rowdies play their home games at Al Lang Stadium in St. Petersburg, contributing to the region’s diverse sports offerings.
