June 28th 2023.
Tennessee State University is breaking boundaries and making history! On June 28th, TSU will be the first HBCU to announce the addition of an ice hockey team to their athletic program. The announcement will be hosted by Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, and Dr. Glenda Glover, TSU's President, Dr. Mikki Allen, the Athletic Director, and the National Hockey League's Vice President of Hockey Development and Strategic Collaboration, Kevin Westgarth, will be in attendance.
It's amazing to see the idea of a TSU hockey program come to life. It all began in May 2021 when the National Hockey League, National Hockey League Players Association, and the Nashville Predators expressed interest in conducting a feasibility study to determine if varsity men's and women's hockey teams could be established at Tennessee State. In February 2023, Dr. Allen and Sean Henry, the president and CEO of the Predators, announced a fundraising campaign to launch the hockey programs. This money will go towards scholarships, an on-campus venue, equipment, travel, and other related expenses.
The Nashville Predators and TSU have already worked together on several events, including Black History Nights and a "$1 million in 1 month" scholarship fundraising campaign just for TSU students. Dr. Glover expressed enthusiasm for this opportunity to expand the sport, increase diversity, and introduce a new fan base. With 109 HBCUs in the United States, this would be the first time hockey is organized at any level.
The excitement continues to grow, even on social media! The hockey program already has a Twitter account and tweeted "Hello out there, we're on the air... It's 'Hockey Night' tonight..." on June 28th.
It's incredible to see the power of partnership! With the help of the NHL, NHLPA, and Nashville Predators, Tennessee State University is making history with the first HBCU hockey program. We can't wait to see what's next for TSU Hockey!
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