Tampa Bay 28's Kyle Burger becomes ThunderBug's 'Honorary Bug Keeper'
Jan 28, 2026
ThunderBug has served as the Tampa Bay Lightnings official mascot since 1992. But the energetic black and yellow insect is not alone.On game days, he gets help from the Bug Keeper, Jack OMalley.OMalley has been ThunderBugs sidek
ick for about three years. As a Bug Keeper, he ensures that T-Bug is prepared for all of his antics and appearances.He manages his props, including the signature yellow noodles, signs, costumes, and his bike, while also taking photos and helping with fan interactions during games. But with the NHL Stadium Series inside the much bigger venue of Raymond James Stadium, Tampa Bay 28 sports anchor Kyle Burger thought maybe Bug Keeper OMalley might need some help on Sunday.To get Kyle ready for the big game, OMalley put him to the test to be an official Bug Keeper." The Tampa Bay Lightning also offers a Bug Keeper Experience on game days.
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