Rob Higgins Honored as Lightning Community Hero

Longtime Tampa Bay Sports Commission leader recognized for contributions to the community

Feb. 1, 2026 at 8:47pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission from 2004 to 2025 and the current Chief Executive Officer of USF Athletics, was honored as the Tampa Bay Lightning's Community Hero. Higgins received a $100,000 donation from the Lightning Foundation and the Lightning Community Hero program, presented by Jabil, which he will donate to several local organizations.

Why it matters

The Lightning Community Hero program has been a key part of the Tampa Bay Lightning's commitment to giving back to the local community over the past 15 years. Higgins' recognition highlights his leadership in bringing major sporting events to the Tampa Bay area, which has generated significant economic impact for the region.

The details

Higgins has led the Tampa Bay Sports Commission for over 20 years, helping the Tampa Bay community host numerous national sporting events. He has worked closely with civic partners, sponsors, and thousands of volunteers to allow Tampa Bay to shine on the worldwide stage while generating millions of dollars in economic impact.

  • Higgins has served as the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission from 2004 through 2025.
  • Higgins was honored as the Lightning Community Hero during the first period of the February 2, 2026 game against the Boston Bruins.

The players

Rob Higgins

Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission from 2004 to 2025 and current Chief Executive Officer of USF Athletics.

Tampa Bay Lightning

The professional ice hockey team that has been honoring community heroes since the 2011-12 season through its Lightning Community Hero program.

Jabil

The company that has partnered with the Lightning to present the Community Hero program.

University of South Florida (USF) Health

One of the organizations that will receive a portion of the $100,000 donation from the Lightning Foundation and Community Hero program.

Moffitt Cancer Center

One of the organizations that will receive a portion of the $100,000 donation from the Lightning Foundation and Community Hero program.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The $100,000 donation from the Lightning Foundation and Community Hero program will be distributed to USF Health, Coop's Catch for Kids, USF Foundation Stampede for Women, Moffitt Cancer Center, and Coaching Love.

The takeaway

The Lightning Community Hero program has been a valuable initiative for the Tampa Bay community, recognizing individuals like Rob Higgins who have made significant contributions to the region's sports and economic development over the past two decades.