The Florida Everblades are an ECHL ice hockey team playing in the Southeast Division. The team is based in Estero, Florida and plays at Germain Arena (Formerly Teco Arena). The team has existed since 1998. The Everblades are affiliated with the Charlotte Checkers and the Norfolk Admirals of the American Hockey League (AHL), the Plymouth Whalers of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) and with the Carolina Hurricanes and the Tampa Bay Lightning of the National Hockey League (NHL). The Everblades are thought of as a model franchise for the ECHL, as they have not missed the playoffs in any of their eleven seasons and have made two appearances in the Kelly Cup Finals. The Everblades' fanbase is also considered to be one of the best in the league, as many games at Germain Arena sell out, especially