Benchmark International Hosts Women’s Networking Event, Bringing Leaders Together at Benchmark International Arena

Connection, collaboration, and the continued advancement of women in sports were at the center of the Lightning Morning Skate and Women’s Network event held at Benchmark International Arena. Women from across Tampa Bay gathered to watch the team prepare on the ice while engaging in meaningful conversations that strengthened relationships across their various disciplines.

To celebrate International Women’s Day, the event carried additional significance, as attendees gathered at a unique venue for an exclusive experience to listen and hear about the state of the team, learn more about who Benchmark International serves, and watch the team warm up for Tuesday evening's game.

Taking place ahead of the Lightning’s Women in Sports Night initiative matchup against the Columbus Blue Jackets, the event gave attendees the opportunity to watch the team prepare on the ice while participating in a networking and discussion session designed to strengthen relationships.

Key Highlights:

• Professionals from across Tampa Bay gathered for the Morning Skate and Women’s Network Event
• The event was held just days after International Women’s Day and ahead of the Lightning’s Women in Sports Night game
• Julie Stewart-Binks, a female rinkside reporter for the Tampa Bay Lightning, shared her experience overcoming challenges as a female in a male-dominated industry

The morning program featured a Chalk Talk discussion with speakers who shared their perspectives on the hunt for the Stanley Cup, as well as their careers and experiences working in and around professional sports.

Chalk Talk speakers included:

• Julie Stewart-Binks: Rinkside Reporter
• Brian Bradley: Former Tampa Bay Lightning Hockey Player
• Dave Mishkin: Tampa Bay Lightning Radio Play-by-Play Announcer

Throughout the discussion, speakers reflected on their professional journeys and the importance of collaboration and strong professional relationships. The Chalk Talk highlighted evolving opportunities for women within sports organizations and across related industries.

Celebrating Women in Sports Night

Later that evening, the Women in Sports Night game hosted by the Tampa Bay Lightning celebrated the contributions of women across the sports industry and the Tampa Bay region. The event highlighted women working throughout professional sports, including leadership, operations, media, partnerships, and business.

As part of the evening’s initiatives, fans participated in a diaper collection drive supporting the Tampa Bay Diaper Bank. The initiative, which reflected the broader purpose of the Women in Sports Night, celebrates leadership while also supporting initiatives that positively impact the region.

Together, the Morning Skate and Women’s Network gathering and the Women in Sports Night game created a day dedicated to recognizing the growing influence of women in hockey and across the sports industry.

Strengthening Professional Connections

Events like the Lightning Morning Skate and Women’s Network gathering demonstrate how sports can create unique opportunities for meaningful professional engagement. Bringing together individuals from across Tampa Bay, allowing attendees to exchange perspectives, strengthen relationships, and continue important conversations about leadership and opportunity.

For Benchmark International, participation in events like this reflects a broader commitment to community engagement and professional development. Bringing together like-minded individuals in an environment centered on collaboration helps strengthen relationships and supports continued progress across industries.

Impact Beyond the Ice

From the energy on the ice to the conversations in the stands, the events served as a reminder that the interest in sports continues to evolve. Held alongside the Lightning’s Women in Sports Night and just days after International Women’s Day, the growing appreciation and role women are taking both in the business and sports community.

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