NASHVILLE, Tenn.--A Nashville university is examining the possibility of becoming the first Historically Black College or University (HBCU) to have a men's and women's hockey team.
Tennessee State University (TSU) is conducting a feasibility study with the partnership of the National Hockey League (NHL), the Nashville Predators, and College Hockey Inc..
The study will examine if creating the programs is viable and the steps necessary for TSU to launch them successfully. According to a media release from TSU, Middle Tennessee has the second-highest percentage increase in youth hockey in the country.
TSU President Glenda Glover stated “The idea of establishing a collegiate hockey program at TSU is a tremendous opportunity as the nation’s first HBCU to take on this endeavor. This allows us to expand the sport, increase diversity, and introduce a new fan base. Our partnership with the Nashville Predators and Sean Henry continues to cultivate groundbreaking programs that will have a lasting impact on the University and our students."
Henry and the Predators organization earlier in the week announced a new ice rink would be opening in Sumner County, providing more access to the ice for children outside of Nashville while growing the sport. The study is expected to be complete and have results by fall 2021.