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Tampa Bay Lightning cut the ribbon on brand new sensory room at AMALIE Arena

a mascot in a sensory room at a hockey arena
Inside the new sensory room at AMALIE Arena in Tampa.| Photo via Tampa Bay Lightning

The playoff-bound Tampa Bay Lightning just made another stride toward inclusivity at Amalie Arena. Officials and players with the Bolts cut the ribbon on a brand-new sensory room at AMALIE Arena on April 9 ahead of their Neurodiversity Night game versus Columbus as the organization continues to strive to make the arena a community center that is an inclusive destination for all who visit.

Thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Lightning’s DEI Council and CARD (University of South Florida – Center for Autism & Related Disabilities), a newly-designed room has been created to elevate the game-day experience for all visitors, with a special focus on those with sensory processing needs. Packed with sensory-specific items, the room is tailored to either stimulate or soothe specific senses, ensuring that everyone can fully enjoy the excitement of game day.

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AMALIE Arena is an inclusive destination for all who visit

“The addition of the sensory room reflects our ongoing commitment to providing innovative solutions to support the diverse needs of our community,” said Lightning executive vice president of community development and social impact Elizabeth Frazier. “We want every guest who enters our building to feel welcome, safe, and supported, and this new sensory room is a significant step towards achieving that goal.”

The quiet and safe space will be available for use at all AMALIE Arena games and events and is situated in the Lexus Suites entrance lobby at Gate C. While the space was created for neurodivergent guests, it is available for anyone who needs to step away from the action.

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