Florida Panthers CEO Discusses Team’s Growth and Community Impact

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — The Florida Panthers have seen significant growth both financially and in community engagement, according to President and CEO Matt Caldwell. In an interview with Fox News Digital, he remarked on the team’s remarkable turnaround since he took over in 2016.

“All the naysayers in the beginning, it’s like, ice hockey teams in the middle of the Everglades?” Caldwell said. He emphasized the importance of aligning the team, organization, and community to achieve success. “We have such a challenging mission, so it’s amazing that we’ve recreated the image.”

Under Caldwell’s leadership, the Panthers have improved from the NHL’s worst team to a Stanley Cup contender, clinching the finals three times in the past three years. During this period, the team has injected over $100 million into the local economy, a number expected to rise by 2025.

Jenni Morejon, CEO of the Fort Lauderdale Downtown Development Authority, noted that the geographical reach of the team will likely enhance this economic impact. “The reach is certainly going to increase, so I can only imagine that number is going to get higher,” she said.

With more than $65 million invested in local facilities, including a practice rink and public ice rinks, hockey has become a key driver of urban development in the greater Fort Lauderdale area. Local business leaders reported that game days can see foot traffic and revenue increase by 30%.

Emi Guerra, founder of Breakwater Hospitality Group, added, “Every year, it becomes more and more popular. It also helps that they’ve been playing phenomenally. The excitement of the games lifts the whole community up.”

Caldwell, a former U.S. Army captain, focused on financial stability and winning championships when he took over. “I really wanted to have an inspirational sense of purpose,” he said. He aimed to lead the Panthers to become one of the greatest turnarounds in sports history.

Despite the team’s significant progress, Caldwell remembers when they had the worst record and financial struggles. “It was a team that was really struggling financially, losing a lot of money,” he recalled. His short-term goal was to stabilize the finances.

Forbes recently valued the Panthers at $1.35 billion, ranking them 26th among NHL teams. While the ranking is notable, Caldwell remains focused on team performance rather than valuations. “There’s a supply and demand for these sports teams,” he explained, emphasizing growth in ticket sales, sponsorships, and media rights.

The Panthers’ rise has not only influenced attendance—ranking fifth in the NHL—but also created a “tremendous domino effect” in the local economy. Morejon emphasized the team’s commitment to community initiatives, saying, “They put not only their money but their energy and their personalities into this community.”

In addition, the Panthers contribute to charity by donating meals for every goal scored at home games. Guerra noted the broader economic benefit of the team’s success, stating that stakeholders from suppliers to fans feel the impact of the wins.

Reflecting on the team’s journey, Caldwell acknowledged the challenges of starting over but remains optimistic about the future. “I hope we bring another Stanley Cup home here over the next couple of weeks. We want to be role models for our community, ready to help when called upon,” he said.