Vinik Sports Group oversees the Tampa Bay Lightning and owns the lease to Benchmark International Arena in downtown Tampa, and also manages the Yuengling Center at the University of South Florida via TBSE. It runs the team and venues, handling operations, branding, and renovations, including a private upgrade of the publicly owned arena, and works with private partners like Benchmark International and Arctos. The group differentiates itself by combining franchise ownership with venue management and a network of private investors to grow both on-ice performance and facility value. Its goal is to sustain competitive success for the Lightning while maximizing long-term value of the venues through efficient operations and strategic partnerships.
Company Size
201-500
Company Stage
N/A
Total Funding
N/A
Headquarters
Tampa, Florida
Founded
N/A
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Cabot Club offers premium hospitality for NHL, concerts & live events. September 28, 2026 By Staff Reports TAMPA - Vinik Sports Group announced the opening of the Cabot Club, a new hospitality destination at Benchmark International Arena. The nearly 8,500-square-foot space is the result of a multi-million-dollar renovation to elevate the guest experience for fans attending Tampa Bay Lightning games, concerts and other live events at the arena. The Cabot Club was developed through a new partnership with Cabot Citrus Farms, a golf and lifestyle resort, and Oak View Group, a hospitality provider. "Together, we've created a destination that combines exceptional service, culinary excellence and exclusive amenities designed to create a truly memorable experience for our guests," said Steve Griggs, CEO of Vinik Sports Group. The reimagined club offers expanded seating, new food options,a private dining room and upgraded technology. "We're always looking for ways to elevate the experience for our fans and guests and build on the energy and momentum happening around Benchmark International Arena and throughout the Water Street district," Griggs said. "As the neighborhood continues to evolve, we're committed to ensuring the arena evolves with it, and we're proud to partner with Cabot and OVG Hospitality to bring this vision to life."
The venue opened in 1996 and became Benchmark International Arena in August 2025 when the global mergers and acquisitions firm, Benchmark International, partnered with Vinik and the Lightning.
"March 7, 2025 - WWE in partnership with the Tampa Bay Sports Commission and Vinik Sports Group, today announced a Memorial Day weekend takeover of the Yuengling Center in Tampa, Florida, with four consecutive events beginning Saturday, May 24.