Tennessee State University plans to become the first HBCU to sponsor an ice hockey program, in partnership with the NHL, the NHL Players Association and the Nashville Predators, it announced Wednesday at a news conference at Bridgestone Arena ahead of the NHL Draft. Here’s what you need to know:
- Tennessee State intends to launch a men’s club ice hockey team in the 2024-25 school year, and hopes to field Division I men’s and women’s teams “in the near future.”
- The Tigers are seeking to begin competition at the club level in the American College Hockey Association, with athletic director Dr. Mikki Allen stating that they would like to play in the ACHA Division 1 or Division 2 level in either 2026 or 2027.
- Allen, speaking with The Athletic, did not specify how much it will cost for TSU to get ice hockey off the ground but estimated the amount will be “in the six figures.”
What they’re saying
Tennessee State president Glenda Glover said the impetus to add hockey to its athletic program is the success of the Predators and how they developed a strong tie to the city and surrounding region. The Predators, through the efforts of club CEO Sean Henry, have been a partner in the university’s development efforts.
“This city has turned into a hockey town and the people…
