Tennessee State University Makes Historic Move to Introduce Ice Hockey Program, First Among HBCUs
Tennessee State University (TSU) is set to make history by becoming the first historically black college or university (HBCU) to offer men's ice hockey at the collegiate level. This pioneering announcement will take place at Bridgestone Arena before the 2023 NHL Draft on Wednesday, June 28, 2023. The addition of ice hockey underscores TSU's commitment to fostering diversity, inclusion, and expanding athletic opportunities for its students.
"Bringing ice hockey to Tennessee State University is a part of our continued commitment to provide our students with new opportunities and to broaden interests in areas where they have traditionally had limited or no access," said TSU President Glenda Glover. "We appreciate our ongoing partnership with the Nashville Predators, which has played a pivotal role in our decision to pursue this historic undertaking. TSU has a tremendous legacy in athletics, and adding ice hockey to our programs will start a new chapter and build upon that legacy."
Inaugural Season Set for 2024
TSU Hockey will commence its inaugural season in 2024, signaling a new era for the university. Initially, the team will begin as a club-level program with aspirations of achieving NCAA Division I status for both men's and women's teams in the future. Although no specific timeline exists for achieving varsity NCAA status, TSU is dedicated to building a solid foundation for long-term success.
"Today is a historic day as Tennessee State University, a prestigious HBCU, collaborates with the National Hockey League (NHL) and the Nashville Predators in an unprecedented partnership," stated Dr. Mikki Allen, TSU Director of Athletics.
Partnership with Nashville Predators
The strong partnership with the Nashville Predators has been instrumental in making this dream a reality. "TSU has been a great partner of the Predators for some time, and we are excited to help them work toward the goal of becoming the first HBCU to field an NCAA Division I college hockey team," said Sean Henry, President and CEO of the Nashville Predators. "President Glover and Dr. Allen are visionaries in their respective positions and should be lauded for continuing to build Nashville into the ultimate hockey town."
Program Oversight and Future Plans
The club hockey program will receive comprehensive oversight from the Department of Athletics, ensuring a well-structured and successful implementation. TSU is in the process of hiring a Director of Club Hockey Operations, who will be responsible for fundraising, seeking corporate partnerships, recruiting student-athletes, and managing day-to-day operations. In the interim, Assistant AD Nick Guerriero will handle all inquiries related to TSU Hockey.
"I am thrilled to embark on this exciting journey with Dr. Allen to promote diversity and excellence in collegiate hockey," said Guerriero. "We will strive to elevate the program to new heights, establishing a legacy that will inspire future generations. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the development of the program on and off the ice, and I eagerly anticipate the challenges and successes that await us."
A Significant Milestone
This move represents a significant milestone for Tennessee State University and the broader HBCU community. By breaking barriers and creating fresh opportunities, TSU Hockey aims to establish a lasting legacy of inclusion, excellence, and athletic accomplishment.
"Together, we celebrate the power of collaboration as we dismantle barriers, diversify the game, and propel hockey into a new era of inclusivity," Allen remarked. "This partnership serves as a catalyst, driving change and ensuring that the game we love embraces the beauty of diversity. With Tennessee State University, the NHL, and the Nashville Predators working hand in hand, we have the potential to reshape the future of hockey and inspire generations to come. Together, we will forge a path toward a more inclusive and united hockey community."
Support from the NHL and Predators
The NHL, NHL Players Association, Nashville Predators, and College Hockey Inc. will play integral roles in the lead-up to the announcement. College Hockey Inc. conducted a feasibility study in 2021, emphasizing the significance of introducing ice hockey at an HBCU to promote diversity and inclusion in sports.
"Introducing hockey at the collegiate level is always exciting, but Club Hockey at Tennessee State University is truly special," said Kevin Westgarth, VP Hockey Development & Strategic Collaboration. "Welcoming Club hockey at a storied HBCU is a meaningful step in the right direction for the sport and will undoubtedly contribute to the vibrant hockey community and inspire future generations of players."
Continuing a Strong Relationship
The Nashville Predators have maintained a strong relationship with TSU, beginning with their significant contribution to the University's February 2020 'One Million in One Month' fundraising campaign. The Predators have continued to support TSU’s scholarship programs and provide internship and job opportunities through the TSU Career Development Center. During Black History Month in February 2022, the NHL hosted the Black Hockey History Tour at Hale Stadium, marking a pivotal step in bringing the sport of hockey to the TSU campus.
As TSU embarks on this groundbreaking journey, it stands as a beacon of progress and inclusivity, paving the way for future generations to embrace and thrive in the sport of ice hockey.
