Tennessee State University is set to make history as the first historically black college or university to offer men’s ice hockey at the collegiate level. TSU will make this groundbreaking announcement at Bridgestone Arena prior to the 2023 NHL Draft on June 28, 2023. The addition of ice hockey showcases TSU’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and expanding athletic opportunities for students.
TSU Hockey will begin as a club-level program in 2024, with aspirations to achieve NCAA Division I status for both men’s and women’s teams in the future. Dr. Mikki Allen, TSU Director of Athletics, stated, “Today is a historic day as Tennessee State University collaborates with the National Hockey League (NHL) and the Nashville Predators in an unprecedented partnership. 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.”
“Bringing ice hockey to Tennessee State University is a part of our continued commitment to provide our students with new opportunities and broaden their interests in areas where they have traditionally had limited or no access,” said TSU President Glenda Glover.
The club hockey program will operate under the Department of Athletics, with plans to hire a Director of Club Hockey Operations responsible for fundraising, partnerships, recruitment, and day-to-day operations. Assistant AD Nick Guerriero will handle inquiries related to TSU Hockey until the position is filled.
TSU’s foray into collegiate ice hockey breaks barriers and creates fresh opportunities, aiming to establish a lasting legacy of inclusion, excellence, and athletic accomplishment. With support from the NHL, NHL Players Association, Nashville Predators, and College Hockey Inc., TSU Hockey seeks to promote diversity and inclusion in the sport.
“We celebrate the power of collaboration as we dismantle barriers, diversify the game, and propel hockey into a new era of inclusivity,” said Dr. Allen. “This partnership serves as a catalyst, driving change and ensuring that the game we love embraces the beauty of diversity. Together, we will forge a path towards a more inclusive and united hockey community.”
The Nashville Predators organization has been a strong supporter of TSU, contributing to fundraising campaigns, scholarship programs, and providing internship opportunities. The NHL’s involvement includes hosting the Black Hockey History Tour at Hale Stadium during Black History Month in 2022, furthering the goal of bringing hockey to the TSU campus.
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