Florida Everblades Playoffs: Your Complete Guide to Hockey in Southwest Florida
Experience Florida Everblades hockey in Southwest Florida! Learn about games, rivalries, tickets, and tips for a perfect night at Hertz Arena.
If you think Florida is all about beaches and sunshine, think again; it’s also home to thrilling hockey action. The Florida Everblades, Southwest Florida’s East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) team, bring championship-level excitement to the ice every season, and playoff time is when the energy peaks.
Their home base at Hertz Arena is just a short drive from Fort Myers Beach, making it easy to add some excitement to your coastal getaway. Plan your visit to catch the championship season, or stop by any time of year for live entertainment, concerts, and family-friendly fun.
Here’s a sneak peek at what’s ahead:
Hockey in Florida: Why the Everblades are a top ECHL team and local favorite.
Winning Tradition: Playoff regulars and past Kelly Cup champions.
Where to Watch: Home games at Hertz Arena with great seating all around.
Rivalries: High-energy matchups against the Orlando Solar Bears.
Historic Moment: The legendary 2005 playoff brawl fans still talk about.
Future Stars: Watch players before they advance to the NHL.
Game-Day Fun: Theme nights, family activities, and local concessions.
Ticket Tips: Buy early and look for group discounts.
Fan-Friendly: Learn the basics, dress warm, and stay for the final buzzer.
Make It a Trip: Pair beach days with hockey nights for a unique getaway.
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In this guide, I’ll take you inside the world of hockey in Southwest Florida, from the Everblades’ home games to the best ways to cheer them on. Plus, I’ll share tips to make the most of your experience as a spectator while you’re in Fort Myers Beach.
Ready? Let’s jump into the details!
Why Hockey is Big in Southwest Florida
Hockey thrives in the Sunshine State, and the Everblades are a major reason why.
Since their founding, the Everblades have consistently ranked among the top five ECHL teams for attendance in most seasons. Their loyal fan base packs Hertz Arena, located just a short drive from Fort Myers Beach, to watch professional-level hockey in a setting that feels personal and electric.
This consistent support shows that hockey in Florida is more than a novelty; it’s part of the region’s sports culture. Fans get fast skating, dramatic goals, and the occasional classic hockey scrap, making each game an unforgettable night out.
The Florida Everblades: A Winning Tradition
The Everblades have built a reputation as one of the most competitive franchises in the ECHL.
They have reached the playoffs nearly every season since their debut and are known for their deep runs and thrilling series. Their ultimate triumph came when they captured the Kelly Cup, the league’s highest honor, cementing their place in ECHL history.
When and Where to See the Everblades
The team plays its home games at Hertz Arena in Estero, Florida.
The arena is easily accessible from Fort Myers, Naples, and Cape Coral, making it a central entertainment option for locals and visitors. The seating capacity of over 7,000 ensures there’s not a bad seat in the house.
Games are typically scheduled from fall through spring, with postseason play extending into early summer for successful teams. The energy ramps up as the playoffs approach, and home games often sell out.
The Rivalry with the Orlando Solar Bears
One of the Everblades’ most exciting storylines is their rivalry with the Orlando Solar Bears.
These matchups are some of the most anticipated games on the schedule, known for high energy, physical play, and dramatic finishes. From the regular season to the postseason, Everblades–Solar Bears games always deliver a memorable experience and a charged crowd atmosphere.
Iconic Moments in Everblades History
Hockey fans love a little drama, and the Everblades have delivered plenty over the years.
One of the most memorable moments came during the 2005 ECHL playoffs, when a game against the Greenville Grrrowl turned into one of the league’s most infamous line brawls.
The 2005 Playoff Brawl
Started with a hard check that left a Greenville player injured.
Escalated into a third-period melee involving every skater on the ice.
Resulted in 197 penalty minutes between both teams.
Despite the chaos, the Everblades won the game and went on to sweep the series, adding to their reputation as a gritty, resilient club.
NHL and AHL Affiliations
The Everblades are not just a local team; they are part of professional hockey’s development pipeline.
They serve as an affiliate for the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes and the AHL’s Charlotte Checkers. This means fans often get to see future NHL players develop their skills in Estero before moving up the ranks.
For hockey enthusiasts, this offers a unique chance to watch rising stars at an affordable price and in an intimate arena setting.
The Hertz Arena Game-Day Experience
Seeing a game at Hertz Arena is more than just sitting in the stands; it’s a full evening of entertainment.
What Makes Game Day Special
Theme Nights: Promotions like Military Appreciation Night, Teddy Bear Toss, and $2 Beer Night add extra fun.
Family-Friendly Activities: Games include music, contests, and activities perfect for kids.
Food and Drinks: Concessions feature everything from pizza and barbecue to local craft beer.
Fans can also visit the Breakaway Sports Pub before or after the game for a full sit-down meal or to watch other sporting events.
How to Get Tickets
Tickets for Everblades games are available online or at the Hertz Arena box office.
Buy Early: Popular games, especially rivalry matchups and playoffs, often sell out.
Choose Your Seats: Options range from lower-bowl seats close to the action to affordable upper-level views.
Group Packages: Special pricing is often available for large groups or corporate outings.
For schedules and ticket information, check the official Florida Everblades website.
Tips for First-Time Hockey Fans
Never been to a hockey game? The Everblades make it easy to enjoy the experience.
Learn the Basics: Watch a short rules explainer video before attending.
Dress for Comfort: The arena is cool, so bring a light jacket or sweatshirt.
Stay Until the End: Some of the best drama happens late in the third period or in sudden-death overtime.
Why an Everblades Game Completes Your Florida Trip
Attending a hockey game is an unexpected but memorable way to round out a beach vacation.
Spend the day soaking up the sun, then trade flip-flops for arena seats and enjoy an evening of ice-cold excitement. Live sports are a growing part of travel itineraries, with millions of visitors planning trips around games each year.
Safety and Accessibility
Hertz Arena is fully ADA-accessible and offers wheelchair seating, companion seating, and accessible restrooms.
Bag policies and security checks are in place, so review arena guidelines before arriving. For families, ear protection is recommended for young children as the arena can get loud during key moments.
Experience Year-Round Hockey Fun!
Florida may be known for palm trees and white-sand beaches, but its hockey scene is just as worth experiencing. The Florida Everblades combine fast-paced action, a passionate fan base, and an approachable arena experience, ideal for a night out in Southwest Florida.
Plan your visit today: Check the schedule, grab your tickets, and discover why so many locals and visitors make Everblades hockey part of their Florida tradition.
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