* Competitive success in a salary-cap pro sport is especially challenging. That’s why the Tampa Bay Lightning’s consecutive Stanley Cups—and good 2021-22 start despite major injuries–are such an achievement. BTW, the Montreal Canadiens, whom the Bolts beat in last season’s Stanley Cup final, and the New York Islanders, whom the Bolts defeated in the semi-finals, are off to awful starts. Neither is likely to make the playoffs.
* Lightning coach Jon Cooper, 54, recently recorded his 400th career win—all with the Bolts. He became the fastest coach in NHL history to reach 400—in 659 games.
* The Rays were named Baseball America MLB Organization of the Year. The Rays won the American League East and had an AL-best 100 wins. The Rays success at the minor league level was also a key factor. Three of the Rays’ 5 minor league affiliates won championships and overall they posted a .653 winning percentage—the highest on record.
* The University of Tampa women won the NCAA Division II national championship in volleyball—for the fourth time.