April 21st 2024.
Tennessee State University made headlines earlier this year when it signed its first-ever hockey player, and now, the university is continuing to break barriers by hiring its first-ever head coach for the men's hockey program. Duanté Abercrombie, who previously made history as the second Black hockey head coach at the collegiate level, has been chosen to lead the TSU team to success.
In a press release, TSU President Glenda Glover and Director of Athletics Dr. Mikki Allen expressed their warm welcome to Abercrombie and his appointment to the university. For Abercrombie, this opportunity is a chance to build something truly transformative at TSU.
"I am thrilled to have this opportunity to build a program at TSU that will make a lasting impact," Abercrombie shared. "With the support of God, my family, TSU students, alumni, and everyone who has been eagerly anticipating this moment, I am confident that we can create a powerhouse on the ice and leave a profound legacy in the world."
President Glover also praised Abercrombie's hiring as a reflection of TSU's commitment to breaking barriers. She stated, "Duanté Abercrombie's appointment as TSU's head coach of hockey is a testament to our dedication to breaking barriers. Bringing hockey to an HBCU is a significant step forward, and it will provide our students with unparalleled opportunities to enrich their college experience. This bold move aligns with our vision for TSU as a comprehensive university that offers a wide range of academic and extracurricular programs, all with a focus on excellence."
Abercrombie himself has a commendable track record as a barrier-breaker in the world of hockey. He was an inaugural member of the Washington Capitals' Black Hockey Committee, and he also co-created the Rising Stars Academy and served as its lead instructor. His dedication and contributions to the sport earned him a nomination for the 2024 Willie O'Ree Community Hero Award by the Capitals. Abercrombie also had the privilege of being mentored by Neal Henderson and Graeme Townshend, the first and third Black players inducted into the United States Hall of Fame, respectively.
Townshend, a former NHL player and current coach, believes that Abercrombie's hiring will be an asset to the TSU hockey program and the university as a whole. He stated in the press release, "Duante will prove to be one of the best hires in College Hockey. He brings a wealth of experience that is rooted in a high degree of character, compassion, and integrity. He will prove to be an incredible role model for ALL members of the Tennessee State University community."
In addition to Abercrombie's hiring, TSU's Director of Athletics, Dr. Mikki Allen, has plans to expand the university's athletic offerings in the coming years. Between 2025 and 2028, TSU hopes to add baseball, women's soccer, and women's swimming and diving to its roster. Allen is excited about what Abercrombie's appointment means for the university's hockey program and the entire TSU community.
"Today marks a historic moment for Tennessee State University Athletics, as we welcome our first-ever hockey head coach," Allen remarked. "With Duanté's extensive experience in player development and coaching, I have full confidence in his ability to build a reputable program and inspire our student-athletes to excel on and off the ice. We are thrilled to embark on this groundbreaking journey together!"
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