The aftermath of Hurricane Milton in Florida has had a significant impact on the sports scene in the state, with several professional teams and collegiate squads facing disruptions to their schedules.
One of the most visible signs of the hurricane's power is the damaged roof of Tropicana Field, home of the Tampa Bay Rays baseball team. The stadium's tattered roof stands as a stark reminder of the destruction caused by the storm.
As recovery efforts continue on the ground, sports teams in Florida are adjusting their plans in response to the aftermath of the hurricane. The Tampa Bay Lightning, a professional hockey team, postponed their Saturday home game to allow for ongoing recovery efforts in the region. The team expressed their solidarity with those affected by the hurricane.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, an NFL team, had to evacuate early to New Orleans for their upcoming game against the Saints on Sunday. Former quarterback Tom Brady, who played his final seasons with the Buccaneers, announced a generous donation of $100,000 towards relief efforts in the region.
Meanwhile, the Orlando Magic, an NBA team, canceled their Friday preseason game against the New Orleans Pelicans, prioritizing the safety of their community and fans. The University of Central Florida football team, on the other hand, initially planned to proceed with their game against Cincinnati on Saturday, but indicated that the decision would be reevaluated as officials assessed the storm's impact.
Amidst the disruptions caused by Hurricane Milton, the sports community in Florida is coming together to support recovery efforts and prioritize the safety and well-being of all those affected. Stay safe, Florida.