As the Florida Panthers continue building a championship culture at the NHL level, the organization is also investing in the future of hockey across South Florida. From expanding girls’ programs to launching a new Tier 1 (AAA) travel team, the Panthers are taking major steps to grow the game and develop the next generation of elite players.
The growth is already visible across the state. According to USA Hockey registration numbers, Florida had 970 registered players in the 6U & under age group during the 2023-2024 season. That number increased to 1,101 players in 2024-2025 alone. And that reflects just one age division. More information is available on the USA Hockey website.
At the beginning of May, the Florida Panthers Jr. held annual tryouts to fill their youth hockey rosters for the upcoming 2026-2027 season. Why is it important?
The recent success of the Florida Panthers has impacted how hockey is growing in the Sunshine State. It has also increased the sport’s popularity among kids. Moreover, back in April, the two-time Stanley Cup-winning franchise announced a new program focused on girls’ hockey development. That expansion shows a commitment to growing the game at every level in South Florida.
Considering USA Hockey’s success at the 2026 Winter Olympics, it makes sense that the Panthers expanded their efforts. The organization added A and AA girls’ travel hockey teams. It’s not easy to grow a homegrown high-level player. Still, the Florida Panthers have started that mission in a new direction. To control the process, they also hired the brother of legendary Cammi Granato, the first female inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. Rob Granato is now the Florida Panthers Youth Hockey Director. He brings more than 30 years of experience.
 At the same time, the organization is continuing to expand beyond girls’ hockey.
The franchise also announced the launch of a Tier 1 (AAA) travel hockey program. As a result, the Florida Jr. Panthers are growing in South Florida. Before the major expansion, the hockey organization ensured there wouldn’t be any issues with ice availability. All programs will be based at Panthers IceDen and Baptist Health IcePlex. As the organization thrives, the long-term goal remains the same. The Panthers want to develop players capable of reaching the highest levels of hockey.
Alumni of the junior program
While there are no locally developed players on the Cats’ active roster, several NHLers went through the Florida Jr. Panthers programs.
Shayne Gostisbehere was born in Pembroke Pines, Florida. He started his hockey journey with the Panthers’ junior program. In fact, he became the first Florida-born-and-raised player to reach the NHL in 2014. A recognition banner with his name hangs on the wall across from a locker room # 3 at the current Panthers training facility in Fort Lauderdale.
The Panthers’ development system has also helped produce several other NHL players. Another noteworthy example is Andrew Peeke. He was born in Parkland, Florida, and received his early hockey education through the Panthers Jr. program. Eventually, he moved to Connecticut at age 14. Jacob Chychrun comes from a hockey family. However, it doesn’t change the fact that the Washington Capitals defenseman was born in Boca Raton. He also split his hockey journey between the Panthers Jr. and Everblades Jr. teams.
The next generation is already coming through the same system. Currently, Dmitry Kulikov’s son plays for the junior Panthers.
Florida hockey has already produced NHL talent, and the Panthers hope this expansion will further accelerate that growth. With stronger youth development programs, increased opportunities for girls, and additional investment in high-level competition, the organization is building a foundation that will shape the future of hockey in the Sunshine State for years to come.
The rising USA Hockey registration numbers show that interest in the sport continues to increase rapidly in Florida. The Panthers’ investment in youth hockey today could eventually lead to more homegrown players reaching not only the NHL but also the PWHL and other professional levels.
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